2015 Mercedes-Benz S600

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S600 is a pinnacle of luxury and performance, boasting a hand-built 6.0L biturbo V12 engine producing 523 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the S-Class range include various V6, V8, and hybrid powertrains. The S600, however, is exclusively paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the S600 for its opulent interior, smooth ride quality, and powerful engine. Common dislikes often revolve around the high maintenance costs associated with such a complex and technologically advanced vehicle.

Engine

6.0L Biturbo V12 (M279)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals. For more severe leaks, the oil filter housing or rear main seal may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the source of the leak
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light with codes related to cylinder misfires. The ignition coils on the V12 can fail, leading to these issues.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per coil (labor included)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially at low speeds or during acceleration. The torque converter may be failing.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift. The valve body, which controls the flow of transmission fluid, can develop issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC System Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC air suspension system can experience leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, or issues with the valve block. This leads to the car sitting unevenly, a harsh ride, or a suspension malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s), the compressor, or the valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per strut (or other component, labor included)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery can drain quickly, especially if it’s not driven regularly. This can be caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module or system.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic drain. This may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Replacing the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Roof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The panoramic sunroof can experience issues with the motor, tracks, or seals. This can lead to the roof failing to open or close properly, leaking water, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seats may stop adjusting in one or more directions due to a failed seat actuator.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per actuator (labor included)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S600, while offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience, can present owners with a range of potential issues. The most common problems relate to the engine (oil leaks, ignition coils), transmission (torque converter, valve body), suspension (AIRMATIC), and electrical systems (battery drain, COMAND system). Repairs can be costly due to the complexity of the vehicle and the price of parts. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the high maintenance costs associated with owning a high-end luxury vehicle like the S600.