2020 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the S-Class lineup. Powered by a handcrafted 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, this sedan delivers exhilarating acceleration and a refined driving experience. While the S65 AMG exclusively uses the V12 engine paired with a 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, other S-Class models offer various engine options, including V6 and V8 variants, along with hybrid powertrains. Owners often praise the S65 AMG for its opulent interior, advanced technology, and potent performance. Criticisms typically revolve around high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and the car’s substantial weight, which can impact agility.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbo V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the valve cover gaskets and the oil filter housing. This can lead to a burning oil smell, visible oil spots under the car, and potentially low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and/or oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the turbocharger coolant lines. This can lead to overheating issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger coolant lines
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+

Transmission

7G-TRONIC Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or harshness during gear changes. This can occur more frequently at lower speeds or during cold starts.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter replacement might temporarily alleviate the issue. Replacement of the conductor plate or valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• AIRMATIC System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC suspension can experience leaks or compressor failures, leading to uneven ride height, sagging, or complete suspension failure. Warning lights on the dashboard will illuminate.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the affected component, such as the air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per strut; Compressor replacement $1,000 - $2,500+

Electrical

• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failures. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve minor issues. More severe problems may require replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can lead to starting problems or complete battery failure.
  • Solution: Identify and address parasitic draws in the electrical system. Replacement of the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Faulty Instrument Cluster
  • Description/Symptoms: Instrument cluster can fail, leaving the driver without information on speed, fuel, and other important indicators.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire instrument cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The panoramic sunroof can experience motor failures, sticking, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, seals, or entire assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+

Interior

• Seat Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the multi-contour seats, including massage function failure, lumbar support issues, or difficulty adjusting seat position.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat motors, actuators, or control modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+

Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, while an exceptional vehicle, can present owners with various issues, primarily related to its complex electrical and suspension systems, as well as potential leaks from the engine. While many issues are not necessarily prevalent on every car, they are common enough to be aware of. Repair costs can be significant due to the high cost of parts and specialized labor required. Potential buyers should prioritize thorough inspections and maintenance history checks to mitigate the risk of encountering these problems.