2017 Mercedes-Benz S550e

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550e is a plug-in hybrid luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance and efficiency. It features a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 436 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the S-Class lineup for 2017 include various V6, V8, and V12 configurations. All engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the S550e for its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and advanced technology, but some common complaints include the complexity of the hybrid system, occasional electrical glitches, and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Electric Motor

No Issues Found

Battery

• Reduced Electric Range/Premature Battery Degradation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the battery’s electric-only range diminishes more quickly than expected over time, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and increased reliance on the gasoline engine. Others have noted that the batteries have failed entirely within a few years.
  • Solution: Replacing the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $15,000+

Transmission

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension system, designed for a smooth ride, can experience issues. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, failing to raise or lower, or displaying a warning light on the dashboard. Leaks in the air struts or compressor failure are common causes.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the air struts, air compressor, or associated lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This includes issues with navigation, audio, and climate control functions. Software updates or hardware replacements may be necessary.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of COMAND unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, including those for the parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and lane keeping assist, may fail. This can lead to incorrect warnings or the complete deactivation of these safety features.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
• Charging System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The plug-in hybrid system can sometimes exhibit issues with charging, either not charging at all or charging at a slower rate than expected. This could be related to the onboard charger, charging port, or associated wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing or replacing the faulty component in the charging system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housings, leading to condensation. This can reduce visibility and potentially damage the headlights.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight housing or resealing the existing one.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can experience problems such as failing to open or close properly, making excessive noise, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Dashboard Display Screen Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The adhesive on the display screen delaminates causing bubbles under the screen and an unsightly appearance
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard display screen
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000+

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550e, while a luxurious and technologically advanced vehicle, is prone to certain issues. Electrical problems, particularly with the infotainment system and various sensors, are relatively common and can lead to frustration. The air suspension system is also a potential source of trouble and expense. Furthermore, the hybrid system, including the battery pack and charging system, can present unique challenges and high repair costs. Overall, while most issues are not mechanically dangerous, the cost to repair the S550e can become very high due to the vehicle’s complexity and the high cost of parts.