2016 Mercedes-Benz S500

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a luxury sedan known for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology. The S500 is powered by a 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 engine, producing 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2016 S-Class include a 3.0L Turbo V6 in the S400 and S450, a 5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 in the S63 AMG, and a 6.0L Twin-Turbo V12 in the S600 and S65 AMG. All engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, except the S65 AMG which utilizes a 7G-Tronic transmission. Owners often praise the S500 for its comfort, quietness, and sophisticated features, but some dislike the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

4.7L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue, often manifesting as oil drips on the ground or a burning smell. Inspection reveals oil accumulation around the valve covers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, and potential check engine light activation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic 7-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Sometimes accompanied by unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or harshness during gear changes. Could indicate low transmission fluid or internal wear.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the issue persists, more in-depth diagnostics and potentially transmission repair or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$500 (Fluid Flush), $3,000 - $6,000+ (Repair/Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Air Suspension Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The car sits unevenly, especially after being parked overnight. The air compressor may run excessively or fail. Dashboard warnings related to the suspension system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s). Sometimes the air compressor also needs replacement if it has been overworked.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• AIRMATIC Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension warning lights appear, vehicle sinking/not rising.
  • Solution: Replacement of the AIRMATIC compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The central infotainment screen freezes, restarts unexpectedly, or experiences glitches. Navigation, audio, and other functions may be affected.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ for software updates, $1,000 - $3,000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery frequently dies, especially after being parked for a few days. This could be due to a parasitic drain from a faulty module or component.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the source of the drain and replacement of the affected module or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+, depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Parking Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The parking sensors beep erratically or fail to detect obstacles.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty parking sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof gets stuck, makes excessive noise, or leaks water.
  • Solution: Sunroof track lubrication and cleaning. Repair or replacement of damaged components if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for lubrication, $500 - $1,500+ for repairs or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater/Cooler Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters or coolers do not function properly or stop working altogether.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty heating/cooling element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Creaking/Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying noises coming from the dashboard, particularly on rough roads.
  • Solution: Tightening of loose components, insulation to reduce vibration, and sometimes dashboard removal and reinstallation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the severity and location of the noise.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S500, while a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, is prone to some common issues. The most concerning are related to the AIRMATIC suspension, which can be costly to repair. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems also occur. Electrical glitches are also a consideration. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and repair costs can be substantial due to the complexity of the vehicle and the price of Mercedes-Benz parts. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and carefully inspect any used S500 before purchase, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Mercedes-Benz technician.