2015 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its powerful V12 engine and opulent features. This model year offers a blend of comfort and exhilarating performance. While the S-Class lineup included other engine options, such as V8 engines in the S550 and S63 AMG variants, the S65 AMG exclusively features the hand-built 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, producing 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. These models come exclusively with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Common praises include the car’s effortless acceleration and luxurious appointments, while common complaints typically revolve around the high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs associated with its complex systems.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbo V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various areas of the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals is the typical solution. Diagnosis may involve pressure testing the oil system to pinpoint the exact source of the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Due to the V12 layout, this engine has twelve individual ignition coils. These can fail over time, leading to misfires, rough running, and a check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) will usually indicate which cylinder is misfiring.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil is required. It is often recommended to replace all coils at once to ensure consistent performance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per coil (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (7-Speed Automatic)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter issues can manifest as shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. It may also cause stalling or failure to engage gears properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+ (including labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension system is prone to issues, including air leaks, compressor failure, and strut failure. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, a suspension malfunction warning light, and a rough ride.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the faulty components. This can involve replacing air struts, the air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to various reasons, including faulty modules not shutting down properly, parasitic draws, or a failing battery. Symptoms include a dead battery after short periods of inactivity, difficulty starting the car, and error messages related to low voltage.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves performing a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain. Repairing or replacing the faulty component is the solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, and connectivity issues. The screen may also fail or flicker.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In other cases, the COMAND unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights may fail to adjust properly or display error messages. This can be caused by faulty headlight modules or sensors.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the faulty headlight module or sensor is the solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seats can experience motor failures, preventing them from adjusting properly. This can affect the seat back, lumbar support, or overall seat position.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor or the entire seat assembly may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can become faulty, leading to difficulty opening or closing the sunroof. It may also make grinding noises.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor or mechanism is the solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, while a pinnacle of luxury and performance, can present owners with a range of potential issues. Engine oil leaks and ignition coil failures are common concerns for the V12 engine, while transmission problems, particularly with the torque converter, can be costly. The Airmatic suspension is another area prone to failures. Electrical gremlins, like battery drain and COMAND system malfunctions, can also occur. Interior features, such as seat motors and the sunroof, may also experience issues. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Owners should be prepared for potentially high maintenance expenses associated with this high-performance luxury vehicle.