2022 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650 represents the pinnacle of luxury and refinement within the Mercedes-Benz lineup. It primarily features a handcrafted 6.0-liter V12 engine, producing 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. However, certain markets may offer it with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 496 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, also paired with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its opulent interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology. Conversely, some criticisms revolve around the high price point and the potential for costly repairs.
Engine
6.0L Twin-Turbo V12
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the valve cover gaskets or the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil puddles under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires due to faulty ignition coils or spark plugs. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased power, and check engine light illumination.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
4.0L Twin-Turbo V8
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the turbochargers, leading to reduced engine power, increased turbo lag, and potential engine damage. Whining or whistling noises from the engine bay may be present.
- Solution: Replacing the failed turbocharger(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
9G-TRONIC Nine-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifting between gears, particularly during low-speed maneuvers. Hesitation or delays when shifting may also be present.
- Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and software update, or replacing valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, particularly when accelerating from a stop.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- AIRMATIC Suspension Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC suspension system can experience issues such as air leaks, compressor failure, or faulty sensors. Symptoms include uneven ride height, sagging of the vehicle, and error messages on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, compressor, or sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Leak in Air Strut
- Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC system is used on the vehicle and is prone to air leaks when they fail causing a soft ride or inability to adjust ride height. Can also cause the compressor to run continuously which will cause it to burn out and need replacing.
- Solution: Replacing the AIRMATIC Strut
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The MBUX infotainment system can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failure. Issues may include unresponsive touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation errors.
- Solution: Performing a software update or replacing the infotainment system module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle, such as parking sensors, blind spot monitoring sensors, and radar sensors, can malfunction. This can result in false alarms, system inoperability, or error messages.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ per sensor.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Automatic Door Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in the automatic door opening and closing mechanisms can cause doors to become stuck or fail to operate smoothly.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the door actuators or sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Massage/Adjustment Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning seat massage features or problems with seat adjustment mechanisms.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the seat motors, actuators, or control modules.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650, while offering unparalleled luxury, is susceptible to certain issues, particularly in its engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. Repairs can be costly, reflecting the high-end nature of the vehicle. The most concerning issues appear to be related to the AIRMATIC suspension and the potential for turbocharger failure in V8 models, both of which can lead to significant repair bills. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their ownership considerations.