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2016 Mercedes-Benz S550e

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550e is a plug-in hybrid luxury sedan that combines a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with an electric motor. The V6 engine produces 329 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, while the electric motor adds an additional 114 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a combined output of 436 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the S-Class include a 3.0L Turbo V6, a 4.0L Turbo V8, and a 6.0L Turbo V12, each with its own unique set of potential issues. Owners generally appreciate the S550e’s luxurious interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology. Common complaints often revolve around the complexity of the hybrid system and the potential for costly repairs.

Electric Motor

  • Electric Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Complete failure of the electric motor, resulting in a loss of electric power and the inability to drive in electric mode. Error messages related to the hybrid system will appear on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacement of the electric motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Battery

  • Reduced Battery Capacity
    • Description/Symptoms: Over time, the battery’s capacity diminishes, leading to a shorter electric driving range. Drivers may notice a significant decrease in the distance they can travel on a full charge.
    • Solution: Battery replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10,000 - $20,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Cell Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Individual cells within the battery pack fail, causing reduced performance, error messages, and potential charging issues.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty battery cells or the entire battery pack.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $15,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, especially at lower speeds. The transmission may also hesitate or delay when shifting.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary. In severe cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs up without a corresponding increase in speed. The transmission may also fail to engage a gear, causing the vehicle to stall or lose power.
    • Solution: Inspection of the transmission fluid level and condition. Repair or replacement of worn clutches or bands. In severe cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Airmatic Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sags on one or more corners, indicating a leak in the air suspension system. The air compressor may run constantly or fail to operate. Error messages related to the air suspension may appear on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ per strut
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Airmatic Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor fails to inflate the air struts, resulting in a low or sagging ride height.
    • Solution: Replace air compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • COMAND System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The central display screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or exhibits distorted graphics. Navigation, audio, and other functions may be impaired.
    • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunction of the various sensors throughout the vehicle: park distance sensors, blind spot monitoring sensors, etc.
    • Solution: Replacement of sensors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Charging System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Inability to charge the vehicle, slow charging speeds, or error messages related to the charging system.
    • Solution: Inspection of the charging port, charging cable, and onboard charger. Replacement of faulty components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight LED Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: One or more of the LED elements in the headlights fail, resulting in reduced visibility and an uneven lighting pattern.
    • Solution: Headlight assembly replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per headlight
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may fail to open or close properly, make excessive noise during operation, or leak water into the cabin.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550e, while offering a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience, is prone to several issues, particularly related to its hybrid powertrain and complex electronic systems. The most serious and costly problems involve the electric motor, battery, and air suspension, while other issues such as transmission glitches and COMAND system malfunctions can also be frustrating. While the cost of some repairs are reasonable, some repairs can be upwards of $20,000 or more. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of repairs when considering this vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz, S550e
Mercedes-Benz S550e 2016
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