2016 Mercedes-Benz S550

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550 is a luxury sedan known for its opulent features, advanced technology, and smooth ride. The S550 is equipped with a 4.7-liter biturbo V8 engine producing 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a V6 in the S400, a hybrid in the S400h, and higher-performance V8 and V12 engines in the AMG models. A 7-speed automatic transmission is standard for the S550. Owners appreciate the S-Class for its comfortable and quiet cabin, cutting-edge features, and prestigious image. Some common dislikes include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the complexity of the vehicle’s many systems.

Engine

4.7L Biturbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the source of the leak and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can experience failures, leading to reduced engine power, whistling noises, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or delayed shifting, particularly when cold.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update can resolve the issue. Other times, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $5,000+ (transmission rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, causing shuddering or vibrations at low speeds and potential transmission damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is prone to leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, or issues with the control module. This can lead to a sagging suspension, uneven ride height, or a failure to adjust ride height.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, air compressor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor, $500 - $1,000+ for the control module.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The S550 has a complex electrical system, which can sometimes lead to excessive battery drain. This can result in a dead battery, difficulty starting the car, or warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic drain, which may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or failure to operate properly. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software update, module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $2,000+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions can include failure to open or close, excessive noise, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Control Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the multi-contour seats, including failure of massage functions, lumbar support, or adjustments.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty seat modules or motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550 is a sophisticated vehicle, but owners may encounter a variety of issues, particularly related to the engine, transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. The cost of repairs can be significant due to the complexity of the vehicle and the high price of parts. The air suspension and turbocharger issues are considered high severity/high cost repairs, while rough shifting and electrical issues are medium severity/cost repairs. Oil leaks and sunroof/seat control malfunctions are generally considered low severity/medium cost repairs. While not all S550s will experience these problems, it is important for prospective buyers to be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.