2024 Mercedes-Benz S500

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The S500 is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbocharged engine producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the S-Class include the S580 with a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo and the S580e plug-in hybrid with a similar inline-6 engine combined with an electric motor. People generally appreciate the S500’s smooth ride, luxurious interior, and advanced technology features. However, some have expressed concerns about the complexity of the infotainment system and the high cost of ownership.

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system occasionally freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates from the dealer are the most common solution. In some cases, a full system reset or replacement of the MBUX control unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue and solution, but could range from $0 (software update under warranty) to $1,500+ for a component replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wireless Charging Pad Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The wireless charging pad for smartphones may intermittently fail to charge devices or stop charging prematurely.
  • Solution: Checking for obstructions, updating the software or replacing the wireless charging pad module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the fix required.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ambient Lighting Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The ambient lighting system may exhibit flickering, inconsistent brightness, or complete failure of individual LED elements.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected LED module or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per affected area.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Massage Feature Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat massage feature may fail to operate correctly, with inconsistent pressure, incomplete cycles, or unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the massage motor or air bladder within the seat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof/Moonroof Noise or Sticking
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof/moonroof may exhibit excessive noise during operation, become stuck in a certain position, or fail to open/close smoothly.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks, adjustment of the sunroof mechanism, or replacement of the sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Parking Sensor False Alarms
  • Description/Symptoms: The parking sensors may generate false alarms even when no obstacles are present, particularly in wet or snowy conditions.
  • Solution: Cleaning the sensors, recalibrating the sensor system, or replacing faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per affected sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension System Leaks or Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system may develop leaks, leading to a loss of ride height, uneven suspension, or complete system failure. This can be indicated by the vehicle sitting low or unevenly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per affected component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

3.0-liter Inline-6 Turbocharged (M256)

• Auxiliary Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, or a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the auxiliary water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, hesitation during acceleration, or slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush, or valve body replacement. In severe cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $6,000+ (transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz S500, while offering a luxurious experience, is reported to have some issues. Electrical problems with the MBUX system, wireless charging, and ambient lighting seem to be the most common issues. Interior problems include seat massage malfunctions and sunroof noise/sticking. Exterior problems are seen with parking sensors. The suspension system can have issues with leaks or failures. Finally, the engine may have issues with the auxiliary water pump and the transmission may have rough shifting or hesistation. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to more serious mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and carefully inspect the vehicle before purchase, as well as ensure that any applicable recalls have been addressed.