2016 Mercedes-Benz S500
Introduction:
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a high-end luxury sedan that offers a sophisticated blend of performance, comfort, and technology. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.7-liter V8 engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, the S500 produces 449 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque. Other engine and transmission options include a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with a 9-speed automatic transmission and a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 with a 7-speed automatic transmission.
Owners praise the S500 for its spacious and luxurious interior, cutting-edge technology features, and refined driving experience. However, some owners have reported issues related to various components of the vehicle.
Engine
4.7-liter V8
- Oil Leaks from Vacuum Pump: The vacuum pump gasket may fail, leading to oil leaks. Symptoms include an oily residue around the pump and reduced engine power. Replacement of the gasket is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
3.0-liter V6
Turbocharger Failure: The turbochargers may fail prematurely, resulting in reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and excessive smoke from the exhaust. Replacement of the turbochargers is necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
Intake Manifold Leaks: The intake manifold gaskets may leak, causing rough idling, reduced engine power, and increased emissions. Replacement of the gaskets is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
5.5-liter V8
- No Issues Found
Transmission
9-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Fluid Leaks: The transmission may develop fluid leaks due to faulty seals or gaskets. Symptoms include an oily residue around the transmission and delayed or hard gear shifts. Replacement of the faulty components is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
Shifting Problems: Some owners have reported hesitation and delayed gear shifts. This could be caused by various issues, such as faulty solenoids or sensors. Diagnosis and repair may require replacement of the affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
7-Speed Automatic Transmission
- No Issues Found
Suspension
Airmatic Suspension Failure: The air suspension system may fail, causing the vehicle to sag or lose ride height. Replacement of the air suspension components or compressor is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
Lower Control Arm Bushings Wear: The lower control arm bushings may wear prematurely, leading to knocking or clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Replacement of the bushings is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Electrical
Battery Discharge: The battery may discharge prematurely, causing the vehicle to fail to start. This could be due to parasitic draws from faulty electrical components. Diagnosis and repair may require replacement of the affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
Infotainment System Issues: Some owners have experienced issues with the infotainment system, including screen freezing, unresponsive touchscreen, and audio playback problems. Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit may be required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
Blind Spot Monitoring Malfunction: The blind spot monitoring system may malfunction, failing to detect vehicles in the blind spots. This could be caused by faulty sensors or wiring. Diagnosis and repair may require replacement of the affected components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
Exterior
Headlight Condensation: Some owners have reported condensation buildup inside the headlights. This could be caused by a faulty seal or vent. Replacement of the headlight assembly may be required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
Front Grill Chrome Flaking: The chrome finish on the front grill may flake or peel off over time. Replacement of the front grill is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Interior
Panoramic Sunroof Motor Failure: The panoramic sunroof motor may fail, preventing the sunroof from opening or closing. Replacement of the motor or the entire sunroof assembly may be required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
Climate Control Malfunction: The climate control system may malfunction, leading to inconsistent or ineffective temperature control. Diagnosis and repair may require replacement of the climate control module or other components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
Instrument Cluster Malfunction: The instrument cluster may malfunction, displaying incorrect information or failing to display gauges. Replacement of the instrument cluster may be required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
Summary
Overall, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a vehicle with an impressive combination of performance, luxury, and technology. However, it has experienced various issues related to its engines, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior components. Some of these issues can be relatively minor and inexpensive to repair, while others may be more severe and costly. It’s important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and factor them into their decision-making process.