2020 Mercedes-Benz S600L

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S600L is a luxury sedan known for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and powerful V12 engine. In addition to the V12, the S-Class in 2020 also had engine options including various V6 and V8 configurations, along with hybrid options in some markets. Transmission options are primarily various versions of Mercedes’ 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic. The S600L specifically features a 6.0L twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise the S600L for its comfortable and quiet cabin, advanced technology, and effortless power. Some common dislikes include the complex infotainment system and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbo V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, leading to oil consumption and potential engine damage. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can experience failures due to oil starvation or mechanical issues. Symptoms include a loss of power, unusual noises from the engine, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the affected turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or jerking during gear changes, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission flush, or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) to $2,500+ (valve body replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC air suspension system can experience leaks, compressor failures, and control module issues. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected components, such as air struts, compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ per strut. Compressor replacement: $1,000 - $2,500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, and connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) to $3,000+ (unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle, such as parking sensors, blind spot monitoring sensors, and oxygen sensors, can fail. Symptoms vary depending on the affected sensor, but often include warning lights and system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the adaptive headlight system to adjust properly, causing poor visibility or error messages.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight unit or related control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The electric seat motors can fail, preventing the seat from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S600L, while offering a luxurious experience, can present owners with potentially expensive issues. The most concerning problems involve the engine (oil leaks and turbocharger failures) and the AIRMATIC suspension. Electrical issues, particularly with the infotainment system, are also common. While some problems can be resolved with relatively inexpensive fixes, others, like turbocharger or air suspension replacements, can lead to significant repair bills. It’s important to note that these high costs are to be expected in a high-performance luxury vehicle, but should be taken into consideration when purchasing and maintaining a 2020 S600L.