2018 Mercedes-Benz S560

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 is a luxury sedan known for its opulent interior, advanced technology, and smooth ride. The S560 features a 4.0L biturbo V8 engine producing 463 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options available for the 2018 S-Class include the S450 which features a 3.0L turbo V6 and the S63 which features a more powerful version of the 4.0L V8. Owners generally praise the S560 for its comfort, quietness, and cutting-edge features. Common complaints include the complexity of the infotainment system and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

4.0L Biturbo V8

• Oil Leaks from Turbocharger Oil Lines
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are reported from the oil lines that feed the turbochargers. This can result in a burning smell and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking turbocharger oil lines with updated parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of fuel injector failure, leading to rough idling, misfires, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injectors. It is often recommended to replace all injectors on that bank of cylinders.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200-$2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or hesitant shifting between gears, particularly at lower speeds. This can manifest as jerking or clunking during gear changes.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, a transmission flush or valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (AIRMATIC)
  • Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC air suspension system is prone to failure. Symptoms include the car sitting lower than normal, a rough ride, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: The failed components, such as air struts, the air compressor, or valve block, must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience freezing, crashing, and other software glitches. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacing the COMAND unit is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with excessive battery drain, particularly when the vehicle is not driven for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Identify and address the source of the parasitic drain. This may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Sensors (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as parking sensors and blind spot monitoring sensors, can malfunction. This can result in false warnings or the systems not functioning properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs are known to have issues with opening and closing. This can include getting stuck and requiring force to operate.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Massage Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat massage feature can stop working or malfunction.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the seat massage components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560, while a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, is not without its potential issues. Common problems range from engine oil leaks and transmission rough shifting to electrical glitches and air suspension failures. The severity of these issues varies, but repairs can be costly, particularly those involving the air suspension, infotainment system, and engine components. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision, including budgeting for potential repairs.