2021 Mercedes-Benz S500

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S500 represents the pinnacle of luxury sedans, offering a sophisticated blend of technology, comfort, and performance. The S500 is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbocharged engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. Some owners appreciate the S500’s opulent interior, advanced driver-assistance features, and smooth ride. However, some have expressed concerns about the complexity of the infotainment system and occasional electronic glitches. Other engine options for the 2021 S-Class include the S580 with a 4.0L V8 engine.

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system, responsible for controlling navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings, may freeze, lag, or crash intermittently. This can lead to unresponsive touchscreens, loss of audio, and navigation errors.
  • Solution: Software updates performed by the dealership can address these issues. In some cases, a complete system reset or replacement of the MBUX module may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1500+ (Module Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Center Console Touchpad
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console touchpad may become unresponsive or exhibit erratic behavior, making it difficult to navigate the MBUX system. Some owners have reported phantom touches or the touchpad not registering inputs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty touchpad unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ambient Lighting Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The ambient lighting system, offering a wide array of customizable colors and effects, may experience malfunctions such as flickering, inconsistent brightness, or complete failure of certain lighting zones.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the affected lighting module and replacement of faulty LEDs or the entire module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver Assist Features Malfunctioning
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with driver-assist features such as lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. These features may intermittently fail or provide inaccurate readings.
  • Solution: Recalibration of sensors, software updates, or replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system, particularly with inconsistent cooling or failure to blow cold air.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the A/C system, which may involve refrigerant recharge, compressor replacement, or repair of faulty sensors or actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof/Moonroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the sunroof/moonroof such as failure to open or close smoothly, unusual noises during operation, or water leaks.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks, adjustment of the sunroof mechanism, or replacement of damaged components such as the motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions (AIRMATIC)
  • Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC air suspension system, designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, may experience malfunctions such as sagging, uneven ride height, or failure to adjust properly. Warning lights may illuminate on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the air suspension system, which may involve replacing faulty air struts, compressors, or sensors. Leaks in the air lines can also cause issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

3.0L Inline-6 Turbocharged (M256)

• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, long cranking times, engine misfires, and a decrease in power. There may also be fuel odors and fuel leaks around the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• 48V Mild Hybrid System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 48V system, which powers the electric auxiliary compressor and provides electric boost, can sometimes experience issues. Symptoms include error messages, reduced performance, or failure of the system to engage.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace faulty components within the 48V system, such as the generator, battery, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

No Issues Found

Summary

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a technologically advanced luxury sedan, but it is not without its potential issues. Electrical issues, particularly with the MBUX system, are relatively common and can range from minor annoyances to significant inconveniences. Suspension and engine-related problems can also arise, potentially leading to costly repairs. Overall, while the S500 offers a luxurious and refined driving experience, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider obtaining an extended warranty or conducting a thorough pre-purchase inspection to mitigate the risk of unexpected repairs.