2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S560

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S560 represents the pinnacle of luxury sedans, offering an opulent interior, a smooth ride, and a powerful engine. The S560 features a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 463 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. Another engine option for the 2018 Maybach S-Class is the S650, featuring a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine producing 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. While owners often praise the car’s comfort, technology, and prestige, some have reported issues that detract from the ownership experience. Dislikes commonly include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as occasional glitches in the advanced technology features.

Engine

4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 (S560)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are observed around the valve cover gaskets, leading to a burning smell and potential oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, loss of power, or check engine light illumination. Potential failure of the turbocharger(s)
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the turbocharger(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L Twin-Turbo V12 (S650)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, including valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from hoses, radiator, or expansion tank, leading to overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting, jerky movements between gears, or transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Software update or transmission fluid flush. In severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, warning lights on the dashboard, compressor failure, or uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per corner for strut replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, or unresponsive touch screen. Navigation issues, Bluetooth connectivity problems, or audio system failure.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, or lane-keeping assist systems. False alarms or system failures.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sensor Issues with Automatic Trunk Closer
  • Description/Symptoms: The trunk closer failing to fully close or opening by itself.
  • Solution: Replacement of sensors in the trunk
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunction or failure of the seat adjustment motors, leading to inability to adjust the seat position.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S560, while offering exceptional luxury, is not without its potential issues. The most commonly reported problems involve the engine (oil leaks, turbocharger issues), transmission (rough shifting), suspension (AIRMATIC problems), and electrical systems (infotainment glitches and sensor malfunctions). The severity and cost of these issues can vary significantly, with suspension and transmission repairs often being the most expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls and factor in the high cost of maintenance and repairs when considering purchasing a used 2018 Maybach S560.