2019 Mercedes-Benz S450

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S450 is a luxury sedan known for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology. The S450 is powered by a 3.0L Turbocharged V6 engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the 2019 S-Class lineup include a 4.0L Biturbo V8 (S560) and a 6.0L Biturbo V12 (S65 AMG). All engine options are paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the S450 for its comfortable and quiet cabin, luxurious features, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Common criticisms include the complexity of the infotainment system and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged V6 (M276)

• Oil Leaks from Timing Chain Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the front of the engine, visible on the engine block and potentially dripping onto the ground. Burning oil smell may be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain cover gasket and resealing the cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
• Faulty Fuel Injectors
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and potential engine stalling. The check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (725.0)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hesitation or jerky movements during gear changes, particularly between lower gears. Can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Software update of the transmission control module (TCM). If the issue persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $200-$500, Valve body replacement: $2,500 - $4,500+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Can also manifest as abnormal noises from the transmission area.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits lower than normal, uneven ride height, or the suspension fails to raise when commanded. Warning lights may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,800+
• Air Strut Leaks (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Hissing sound from the vicinity of the affected strut, sagging suspension, and a bouncy or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500 per strut

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing (COMAND)
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or reboots unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Software update. If this doesn’t fix the issue, replacement of the head unit might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $100 - $300, Head unit replacement: $1,500 - $3,500+
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is parked for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the parasitic draw. Common culprits include faulty control modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the cause.

Exterior

• Malfunctioning LED Headlights/Taillights
  • Description/Symptoms: Individual LEDs within the headlight or taillight assembly fail, resulting in reduced brightness or a section of the light not functioning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire headlight or taillight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per light.

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck, makes excessive noise during operation, or fails to open or close completely.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair of the sunroof mechanism, including lubrication, track alignment, or replacement of damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+

Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S450 is a technologically advanced and luxurious vehicle, but like all cars, it can experience issues. The most common problems relate to the air suspension, electrical systems (especially the infotainment system), and potential oil leaks. Repair costs can be significant, reflecting the premium nature of the vehicle and its components. While the potential for costly repairs exists, addressing these issues proactively can help maintain the S450’s performance and longevity.