2019 Mercedes-Benz S450L

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S450L is a luxury sedan powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produces 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. Buyers can opt for a 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system for an additional cost. The S450L is known for its spacious and luxurious interior, advanced safety features, and smooth ride quality. However, there have been some reported issues with the vehicle.

Engine

3.0L Inline-Six

• Excessive Oil Consumption: Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Symptoms include a burning oil smell, smoke from the exhaust, and the need to add oil frequently. Solution: The issue can often be resolved by replacing the piston rings and valve seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
• Intake Manifold Issues: Description/Symptoms: A faulty intake manifold can cause a variety of issues, including reduced engine power, rough idling, and stalling. Symptoms may also include a check engine light and error codes related to the intake manifold. Solution: The solution involves replacing the intake manifold and associated sensors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Transmission

Nine-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems: Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced problems with the transmission shifting smoothly. Symptoms may include delayed shifts, harsh shifts, or the transmission slipping out of gear. Solution: The issue can often be resolved by updating the transmission software or replacing the transmission control module. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Mechatronic Unit Failure: Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit is an electronic control unit that manages the transmission’s operation. Failure of this unit can result in a variety of transmission problems, including shifting issues, loss of power, and inability to engage gears. Solution: The solution involves replacing the mechatronic unit. Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure: Description/Symptoms: Failure of the air suspension compressor can lead to a loss of air pressure, resulting in the vehicle sagging and reduced ride height. Symptoms include a noticeable drop in the ride height, a warning light on the dashboard, and a rough ride. Solution: The solution involves replacing the air suspension compressor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Control Arm Bushing Wear: Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the control arm bushings can cause a variety of issues, including reduced handling precision, increased road noise, and vibrations. Symptoms may also include uneven tire wear. Solution: The solution involves replacing the worn bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Battery Discharge: Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery discharging prematurely, even when the vehicle is not in use. Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, dim headlights, and a warning light on the dashboard. Solution: The issue can often be resolved by replacing the battery or by diagnosing and repairing electrical system issues that may be causing parasitic drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Central Locking System Malfunction: Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced problems with the central locking system not working properly. Symptoms may include doors that do not lock or unlock using the key or remote, or difficulty opening or closing the trunk. Solution: The issue can often be resolved by replacing the central locking module or repairing faulty wiring or sensors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues: Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the sunroof not opening or closing properly, or becoming jammed. Symptoms may also include water leaks or wind noise. Solution: The issue can often be resolved by replacing the sunroof motor, gears, or tracks, or by reprogramming the sunroof control module. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Headlight Condensation: Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced condensation buildup inside the headlight assemblies, which can affect visibility and cause fogging issues. Solution: The issue can often be resolved by removing the headlight assemblies and resealing them with new gaskets or repairing any leaks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Interior

• Panoramic Roof Rattle: Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a rattling noise coming from the panoramic roof when driving over uneven roads. Solution: The issue can often be resolved by adjusting and tightening the roof bolts or by replacing the roof gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Climate Control Issues: Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced problems with the climate control system not working properly, such as uneven temperature distribution or failure to maintain the desired temperature. Solution: The issue can often be resolved by diagnosing and repairing faulty sensors, actuators, or the climate control module. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Summary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S450L is a highly regarded luxury sedan, but it has experienced some issues that owners should be aware of. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. It is recommended to research potential issues before purchasing a used S450L and consider the potential costs of repairs down the road.