2019 Mercedes-Benz S600L

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S600L represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the S-Class lineup. This model year came standard with a handcrafted 6.0L twin-turbo V12 engine producing 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. The S600L was only offered with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. While owners generally praise the S600L for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine, some common complaints revolve around the complexity of its advanced technology, leading to electrical glitches and potentially high repair costs. Other S-Class models offer different powertrains like the inline-6 turbo and V8 engines, which have their own sets of common issues, but we will focus on the S600L here.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbo V12 (M279)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets. Common locations include the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and timing cover. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil spots on the ground, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and loss of power. The check engine light may illuminate. Ignition coils are known to fail on the M279 engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per coil, depending on the shop and if done individually or as a set.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause harsh shifts or slipping.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or failure to shift. The transmission may also get stuck in a gear.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Air Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sag on one or more corners, ride height may be incorrect, and the air compressor may run constantly. Error messages related to the suspension system may appear on the dashboard. Leaks in the air struts or air lines are common causes.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, air lines, or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ per strut, depending on the location and if OEM or aftermarket parts are used.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates, component replacement (head unit, screen).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+, depending on the severity and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use. This can be caused by a parasitic drain from faulty modules or electrical components.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the cause and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as parking sensors, blind spot monitoring sensors, and adaptive cruise control sensors, can malfunction, leading to error messages and impaired functionality.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per sensor, depending on the type and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Massage System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The massage function in the seats may stop working, or individual massage elements may fail.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the massage system components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+, depending on the extent of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise, or leak.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing damaged components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S600L, while offering unparalleled luxury and performance, is not without its potential issues. The most significant concerns stem from its complex electrical systems, air suspension, and potential engine and transmission problems. Repairs can be costly, especially when dealing with specialized components like the AIRMATIC suspension or the COMAND system. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle’s performance and prevent further damage. Potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and factor them into their purchasing decision.