2019 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650 represents the pinnacle of luxury and refinement in the automotive world. It’s powered by a hand-built 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine producing 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. While owners generally praise the Maybach S650 for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine, some have reported encountering certain issues. Common complaints include the complexity of the infotainment system and occasional glitches in the advanced driver-assistance systems. A smaller, less powerful V8 engine was also available in the S560 trim, but the S650 is the focus here, being the top-of-the-line model.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbo V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the car, burning oil smells, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Thorough cleaning of the engine to remove residual oil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Ignition Coils
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires can occur due to failing ignition coils. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased power, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s). Diagnosing the root cause to prevent future failures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per coil (including labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. This may be more noticeable during cold starts or under heavy acceleration.
  • Solution: A software update of the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, a valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (software update), $1500 - $3000+ (valve body replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or buzzing sounds during acceleration and/or shuddering at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, designed for a smooth ride, can develop leaks in the air struts or air lines. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, the suspension compressor running excessively, and a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut(s) or air lines. Inspecting and replacing the air suspension compressor if damaged due to prolonged operation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ per strut (including labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, such as freezing, slow response times, or random reboots. Software updates are crucial, but may not always resolve all issues.
  • Solution: Performing a system reset or updating the software. In severe cases, replacing the COMAND unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update, if available), $100 - $300 (system reset), $2000 - $5000+ (COMAND unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: The advanced driver-assistance systems rely on various sensors that can malfunction. This can result in false alarms, failure to detect obstacles, or the system being disabled.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the faulty sensor(s) and replacing them. Recalibrating the system after replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor (including labor and calibration).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Door Closing System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic door closing system might experience failures, causing doors to not close properly or to have difficulty engaging the system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the automatic closing mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck open/closed, or the motor makes excessive noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sunroof motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650, while a paragon of luxury, isn’t immune to potential issues. The most commonly reported problems relate to the engine, transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. While some issues can be resolved with software updates or minor repairs, others may require more significant and costly replacements. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect any vehicle before purchase, paying close attention to the operation of the air suspension, infotainment system, and transmission. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified Mercedes-Benz technician are highly recommended. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs, with costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand depending on the affected component.