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Model reliability

Mercedes-Benz S-Class reliability

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class fails its MOT less often than most cars over 10 years old: 24.9% of 12,369 tests failed in 2023, against 39.7% on average.

Up to 5 years old
8.2% failed their MOT
Better than most
From 5,312 MOT tests of Mercedes-Benz S-Classs this age.
6 to 10 years old
13.6% failed their MOT
Better than most
From 10,375 MOT tests of Mercedes-Benz S-Classs this age.
Over 10 years old
24.9% failed their MOT
Better than most
From 12,369 MOT tests of Mercedes-Benz S-Classs this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 35% more oftenRigid brake pipes2.3% vs 1.7%Fix about £120
Fails 40% more oftenABS / EBS / ESC1.4% vs 1%
Advised 84% more oftenRigid brake pipes15.3% vs 8.3%Fix about £120
Advised 3× as oftenWheel bearings5.9% vs 1.7%
Safety recalls

89 DVSA recalls for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.

R/2026/19111 Jun 2026Built 2025SRPC2604 – Windshield bonding

Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain S-Class (223 platform) and EQS (297 platform) vehicles the bonding of the windshield might not meet specifications.

Fix: As a remedy Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will replace the windshield.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 2 vehicles

R/2025/1243 Apr 2025Built 2022–2025SRPC2501 - Processor Starter/Generator

Mercedes-Benz has determined that on certain AMG GT Coupe (192 platform)S-Class (223 platform) SL (232 platform) GLC (254 platform) and AMG GT 4-doorsCoupe (290 platform) vehicles with hybrid powertrain the processor of the control unit of the high-voltage starter generator might experience sporadic overload.

Fix: As a remedy Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will update the software of the high-voltage starter generator on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 46 vehicles

R/2024/13025 Mar 2024Built 2023SRPC2401 - System protection

On certain vehicles some 80A fuses installed might not meet requirements.

Fix: Replace the respective main fuse boxes on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 319 vehicles

R/2024/0247 Feb 2024Built 2014–2017On affected vehicles the panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof might not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.

On affected vehicles the panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof might not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.

Fix: Check the front fixed element of the panoramic sliding sunroof and replace if necessary.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 45 vehicles

R/2023/2592 Oct 2023Built 2020–2023A 12V ground connection bolt in the boot might not meet specifications

On affected vehicles a 12V ground connection bolt in the boot might not meet specifications.

Fix: Check and rework if necessary.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 549 vehicles

R/2023/22329 Aug 2023Built 2021–2022On affected vehicles the fuel pump impeller might not meet specifications and may deform.

On affected vehicles the fuel pump impeller might not meet specifications and may deform.

Fix: Replace the fuel pump module.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 486 vehicles

R/2023/24525 Aug 2023Built 2020–2022On affected vehicles a bolt connection in the engine compartment main fuse box might not meet specifications and the torque of the bolt connection may not be sufficient.

On affected vehicles a bolt connection in the engine compartment main fuse box might not meet specifications and the torque of the bolt connection may not be sufficient.

Fix: Check the bolt connection and repair if necessary.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 330 vehicles

R/2023/1484 Aug 2023Built 2020–2021On affected vehicles the voltage converter software of the secondary on-board electrical system might not meet specifications.

On affected vehicles the voltage converter software of the secondary on-board electrical system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the voltage converter software of the secondary on-board electrical system via an over-the-air update in accordance with the Mercedes me terms of use or alternatively via its Mercedes-Benz service partners should the over-the-air update not be possible.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 363 vehicles

R/2023/1494 Aug 2023Built 2020–2021On affected vehicles the voltage converter software of the secondary on-board electrical system might not meet specifications.

On affected vehicles the voltage converter software of the secondary on-board electrical system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the voltage converter software of the secondary on-board electrical system via an over-the-air update in accordance with the Mercedes me terms of use or alternatively via its Mercedes-Benz service partners should the over-the-air update not be possible.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 165 vehicles

R/2023/17314 Jul 2023Built 2021–2023THE MONITORING SOFTWARE OF THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY PROGRAM (EPS) MIGHT NOT MEET SPECIFICATIONs.

The monitoring software of the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the ESP control unit.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 1,228 vehicles

R/2023/12028 Apr 2023Built 2020On affected vehicles the firewall seal may not satisfy leak tightness requirements. Water may enter into the vehicle causing corrosion on electrical contacts function of the PreSafe system may be impaired and it may not be possible to restart a parked vehicle.

On affected vehicles the firewall seal may not satisfy leak tightness requirements. Water may enter into the vehicle causing corrosion on electrical contacts function of the PreSafe system may be impaired and it may not be possible to restart a parked vehicle.

Fix: Install an additional seal for the firewall as a precautionary measure.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 7 vehicles

R/2023/02320 Feb 2023Built 2013–2016On affected vehicles the aluminium bolts of the steering gear could corrode and break due to the intrusion of moisture.

On affected vehicles the aluminium bolts of the steering gear could corrode and break due to the intrusion of moisture.

Fix: Replace the steering gear mounting bolts on the affected vehicles with steel bolts. Should the bolts break or already be broken change the steering gear.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 51,251 vehicles

R/2022/30026 Oct 2022Built 2021Software of the communication module may not correspond with the specifications

The software of the communication module may not correspond with the specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module in the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 56 vehicles

R/2022/11416 May 2022Built 2020–2022The hands-off detection might not detect when the driver's hands are away from the steering wheel

The hands-off detection might not detect when the driver's hands are away from the steering wheel.

Fix: Update the coding of the hand detection system on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 423 vehicles

R/2022/11716 May 2022Built 2020–2022The software of the rear signal acquisition and actuation module might not meet specifications

The software of the rear signal acquisition and actuation module might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the signal acquisition and actuation module on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 605 vehicles

R/2022/09529 Apr 2022Built 2020–2021The air bag control unit might not have been bolted according to specifications

The airbag control unit might not have been bolted according to specifications.

Fix: Check the bolting of the airbag control unit on the affected vehicles and correct it if necessary.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 62 vehicles

R/2022/11225 Apr 2022Built 2021The overhead control panel might be deactivated permanently due to a software error

The overhead control panel under certain circumstances might be deactivated permanently due to a software error.

Fix: Update the software of the overhead control panel.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 6 vehicles

R/2022/0323 Mar 2022Built 2021The software of the communication module might not meet specifications

On certain vehicles the software of the communication module might not meet specifications.

Fix: As a precautionary measure update the software of the communication module on the affected vehicles. This software update is planned to be performed over-the-air with no workshop visit being required.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 486 vehicles

R/2022/0302 Mar 2022Built 2021The software of the communication module might not meet specifications

On certain vehicles the software of the communication module might not meet specifications.

Fix: As a precautionary measure update the software of the communication module on the affected vehicles. This software update is planned to be performed over-the-air with no workshop visit being required.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 63 vehicles

R/2022/01816 Feb 2022Built 2020–2021The configuration of the mbux system might not meet specifications

On certain vehicles with an active and connected Mercedes me connect account the configuration of the MBUX system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the configuration of the MBUX system on affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 5 vehicles

R/2022/02416 Feb 2022Built 2020–2021The communication module might not meet specifications

On certain vehicles the communication module might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software including a correct configuration of the communication module on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 221 vehicles

R/2021/43821 Jan 2022Built 2017–2021Coolant pump might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit

On certain vehicles with a Diesel engine the coolant pump which is controlled by vacuum might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit.

Fix: Update the software of the coolant pump and replace the electrical switch valve on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 35,624 vehicles

R/2021/43412 Jan 2022Built 2020–2021The configuration of the mbux system might not meet specifications.

On certain vehicles with an active and connected Mercedes me connect account the configuration of the MBUX system might not meet specifications.

Fix: A remote update of the configuration of the MBUX system will be conducted without the need for a workshop visit.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 25 vehicles

R/2021/38411 Jan 2022Built 2021Mounting screws of front axle brake callipers might not meet specifications

On vehicles with a fixed�caliper�brake system the mounting screws of the�calipers�on the front axle may not meet specifications.

Fix: Replace the screws on the front brake�calipers�on the affected vehicles.�

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 72 vehicles

R/2021/36511 Jan 2022Built 2012To achieve an improvement in the emissions

Daimler AG has come to an understanding with the (KBA) to achieve an improvement in the emissions.

Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 1 vehicles

R/2021/1061 Dec 2021Built 2016–2021The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 23 vehicles

R/2021/37629 Nov 2021Built 2016–2021The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 50,390 vehicles

R/2021/38226 Nov 2021Built 2020The fuel level might not be displayed correctly

The movement of the fuel fill level sensor might be impaired.

Fix: Modify the routing of the internal fuel line in the fuel tank on the affected vehicles

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 2 vehicles

R/2021/37919 Nov 2021Built 2020–2021The software of the air bag control unit might not meet specifications

The software of the airbag control unit might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the airbag control unit on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 441 vehicles

R/2021/3405 Nov 2021Built 2021A nozzle inside the suction jet pump in the fuel tank might not have been installed or fixed inside the pump according to specifications

A nozzle inside the suction jet pump in the fuel tank might not have been installed or fixed inside the pump according to specifications.

Fix: Conduct a check of the fuel system on the affected vehicles and replace the fuel tank including the suction jet pump if necessary.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 88 vehicles

R/2021/30920 Sept 2021Built 2020–2021The communications module might not meet specifications

The communication module might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software including a correct configuration of the communication module on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 339 vehicles

R/2021/30820 Sept 2021Built 2020–2021The communication module might not meet specifications

The communication module might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software including a correct configuration of the communication module on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 275 vehicles

R/2021/27420 Aug 2021Built 2013–2019Vehicles with a panoramic sunroofthe polycarbonate panel may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair

The polycarbonate panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.

Fix: Remove the bonded panel and install a new polycarbonate panel if required.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 61 vehicles

R/2021/28020 Aug 2021Built 2020–2021The bolting of the 48v wiring harness on a body sided support point might not meet specifications

The bolting of the 48V wiring harness on a body-sided support point might not meet specifications.

Fix: Check the bolting of the 48V wiring harness on the affected vehicles and correct it if necessary.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 7 vehicles

R/2021/11013 May 2021Built 2016–2021The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 108,971 vehicles

R/2021/12011 May 2021Built 2016–2021The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS COUPE/CONVERTIBLE · 86,604 vehicles

R/2021/11110 May 2021Built 2016–2021The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS COUPE/CONVERTABLE · 90,716 vehicles

R/2021/1335 May 2021Built 2016–2021The emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS COUPE/CONVERTIBLE · 106,665 vehicles

R/2021/1345 May 2021Built 2016–2021The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS COUPE/CONVERTIBLE · 162,581 vehicles

R/2021/1315 May 2021Built 2016–2021The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS COUPE/CONVERTIBLE · 81,267 vehicles

R/2021/1325 May 2021Built 2016–2021The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS COUPE/CONVERTIBLE · 10,410 vehicles

R/2021/1285 May 2021Built 2016–2021The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 7 vehicles

R/2021/08230 Mar 2021Built 2016–2020The communication module may be deactivated

The communication module may be deactivated

Fix: Carry out a check of the configuration of the communication module on affected vehicles and if necessary activate the communication module.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 24 vehicles

R/2020/38612 Jan 2021Built 2020–2021The inner tie rods on the front axle steering are the improper length for the vehicle type

Vehicles may have been equipped with inner tie rods on the front axle steering that are the improper length.

Fix: Check the inner tie rods on the affected vehicles and replace them if necessary.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 42 vehicles

R/2020/2436 Oct 2020Built 2011–2018Engine control unit software to be updated

Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Fix: Update the relevant control unit�s software and if necessary replace the NOx sensors.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 994 vehicles

R/2020/2406 Oct 2020Built 2016–2019The seat belt warning function does not meet the specification

The seat belt warning function does not meet the specification

Fix: Activate the correct seat belt warning scenario in the instrument cluster

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 45 vehicles

R/2020/2366 Oct 2020Built 2017–2018THE EMERGENCY CALL SYSTEM (eCall) DOES NOT MEET THE SPECIFICATION

On affected vehicles the software of the communication module for the emergency call system does not meet the specification

Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 3,127 vehicles

R/2020/22525 Aug 2020Built 2018–2020The data documenting the correct mounting of the turbocharger oil feed as well as the oil return line may be missing

The HV battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gas which can ignite vehicle components or in extreme cases the entire vehicle.

Fix: To prevent a vehicle fire the vehicles should not be charged using the external charging cable and the vehicles should only be driven using the default Auto EV mode only

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 124 vehicles

R/2020/18821 Jul 2020Built 2017–2018The material of two closure plugs on the engine may not withstand the maximum loads whilst driving

The material of two closure plugs on the engine might not withstand the maximum loads while driving.

Fix: Rework the closure plugs on the engine on the affected vehicles

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 96 vehicles

R/2019/3893 Feb 2020Built 2018The threaded connection of a chain wheel to the crankcase might not meet specifications

The threaded connection of a chain wheel to the engine crankcase might not meet specifications.

Fix: Replace the Engine of affected vehicles

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 1 vehicles

R/2019/2801 Nov 2019Built 2018On activation of the curtain air bag the pillar cover may detach

The curtain airbag might not deploy as intended.

Fix: Check the installation of the pillar covers and correct if necessary.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 1 vehicles

R/2019/26918 Sept 2019Built 2017–2019The software of the radar control unit may not meet specification

; The software of the radar control unit might not meet the specification

Fix: Update the software of the radar sensor control unit on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 294 vehicles

R/2019/2566 Sept 2019Built 2012–2017To achieve an improvement in the emissions via software updates

Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 25,647 vehicles

R/2019/0402 May 2019Built 2018Switches in certain seat belt buckles may not have been manufactured to specifications

The switches in certain seat belt buckles might not have been manufactured according to specifications.

Fix: The affected seat belt buckles are to be replaced.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 2,570 vehicles

R/2019/0412 May 2019Built 2018Switches in certain seat belt buckles may not have been manufactured to specifications

The switches in certain seat belt buckles might not have been manufactured according to specifications.

Fix: The affected seat belt buckles are to be replaced.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 90 vehicles

R/2019/10817 Apr 2019Built 2016–2018A reset in the cpc control unit could occur whilst driving

The ECO Start-Stop function may be disabled and cause the vehicle to stall.

Fix: The affected vehicles are to be recalled and the software updated.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 69 vehicles

R/2019/0989 Apr 2019Built 2017–2018Hands off detection function might not meet specifications

The Hands-off-Detection function (HoD) might not meet specifications.

Fix: The position of the steering boot will be checked and corrected if necessary.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 1 vehicles

R/2018/26619 Oct 2018Built 2013–2018To improve emissions of the affected vehicles.certain calibrations of functionalities must be changed in the engine management

Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 15,692 vehicles

R/2018/24911 Oct 2018Built 2017–2018Certain parameters of the active lane keeping assist within the multipurpose camera software may not meet specification

Active Lane Keeping Assist might not initiate a brake intervention in case of an unwanted lane change.

Fix: Update the multipurpose camera software of affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 34 vehicles

R/2018/22110 Sept 2018Built 2017–2018Two nuts attaching the busbars within the prefuse box in the trunk may not have been installed

Two nuts attatching the busbars within the prefuse box may not have been installed

Fix: Check the prefuse box and replace if necessary on affected vehicles

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 376 vehicles

R/2018/0106 Feb 2018Built 2016–2017Front seat belt tensioners may not function

The front seatbelt pre-tensioner ignitors may not perform as expected. This could increase the risk of injury to the seat occupants. The lock function of the seatbelts is not impaired.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace seatbelts with quality assured units.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 296 vehicles

R/2017/25326 Oct 2017Built 2016–2017Right front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification

The right front seat belt pretensioner may not conform to specification . This may adversely affect it's operation in the event of an accident.

Fix: Replace the pretensioner on affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS · 135 vehicles

R/2017/1474 Sept 2017Built 2016–2017Left front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification

The propellant mix in certain seatbelt pre-tensioners ignitors may be incorrect. If the front seatbelt pre-tensioners are deployed the lock function of the pre-tensioners cannot be guaranteed.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the front seatbelts that are likely to be affected.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 78 vehicles

R/2017/23321 Jul 2017Built 2017Some occupant safety systems may malfunction in the event of a collision

Due to incorrect wiring assembly the vehicles main power supply is disconnected after airbag deployment. This will affect the operation of vehicle safety functions such as automatically unlocking doors. The SRS systems are still functional.

Fix: On affected vehicles carry out manufacturer's recommended modification.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 45 vehicles

R/2017/21418 Jul 2017Built 2016–2017Oil leak from turbocharger feed pipe.

Under certain conditions the oil feed pipe to the turbocharger may leak.Oil may contact hot components and there is a risk of fire.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the oil feed line to the turbocharger.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 73 vehicles

R/2017/12419 Apr 2017Built 2004–2017Faulty control unit may cause vehicle to perform outside specification

Where a control unit coding was updated in a workshop between 3 December 2016 and 5 December 2016 the coding may not correspond to the specification and may trigger unplanned action in the vehicle. The safety and emissions systems may not react as design intent.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the software in the corresponding control units.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 42 vehicles

R/2016/27015 Dec 2016Built 2015–2016Extended seat belt may malfunction and reduce effectiveness of shoulder belt

It has been identified that the rear seatbelt extender may not retract as intended due to an issue with the individual friction conditions experienced by the belt extender which have not be programmed into the control unit. Should the pretensioners deploy during a collision then there is the potential that the extender may fail and break leaving broken edges which can cause a risk of a serious injury or higher occupant loading.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and recode the rear control unit on the vehicle.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 116 vehicles

R/2016/23531 Oct 2016Built 2014–2016Automatic transmission may malfunction

It has been identified on certain 6 cylinder diesel engine/9 speed automatic transmission vehicles the starter/alternator/transmission wiring harness may be too close to the exhaust system. If it is then there is a risk that the wiring harness may suffer heat damage which can result in the transmission inadvertently selecting neutral whilst driving the Auto P function or the manual P function in the transmission not being available. The manually operated parking brake will still function.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check and if required reroute or replace the wiring harness. The type of action is dependant on the amount of damage present.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 723 vehicles

R/2015/2478 Jan 2016Built 2012–2015Stop start engine may not restart

The excess length of the wiring harness to the engine control unit could result in a faulty camshaft signal. This faulty camshaft signal may lead to an unintentional cancellation of the automatic starting procedure after automatic engine stop of the automatic start/stop system. In the event of a faulty camshaft signal the engine would not restart as expected following the stop procedure but can be manually restarted immediately by engaging the transmission selector lever position �N� or �D� and by operating the ignition key or the start button (with keyless go). Depending on the traffic situation however an increased accident hazard could result.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and rework the wiring harness to the engine control unit on the affected vehicles as a precautionary measure.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 1,126 vehicles

R/2015/2328 Jan 2016Built 2013–2015Auto stop/start may shutdown without warning

Incorrect software may have been installed during manufacture. This may cause erratic idling when coming to a halt and the engine may shut down. Consequently the auto start/stop may not operate as intended.

Fix: On affected vehicles update the powertrain control software.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 330 vehicles

R/2015/2485 Jan 2016Built 2015Transmission may lock at low speed

The high-voltage battery charger may not have been produced to specification which could lead to an incorrect detection of an external charging cable. This in turn can lead the request for �P� to be activated. If the speed is less than 5 km/h the transmission would activate the park pawl function which will prevent the vehicle from driving further and could increase the risk of an incident.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the high-voltage charger on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: S-CLASS HYBRID · 13 vehicles

R/2015/21120 Nov 2015Built 2013–2015Combustion engine may fail to start

Incorrect software may cause the combustion engine to non start during use. Restarting the vehicle by using the key will reset the system

Fix: On affected vehicles update the software for the fuel control unit.

Recalled models: S-CLASS HYBRID · 620 vehicles

R/2015/1965 Nov 2015Built 2014–2015Front seat belts may not perform as intended

The front seat belts may have been wrongly installed and may not fully perform as intended.

Fix: On affected vehicles check installation and correct if necessary.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 183 vehicles

R/2014/08527 Aug 2014Built 2014Airbag may not perform as specified

The front passenger air bag module may not have been installed according to specifications. If activated it is possible that separate parts of the passenger air bag module may become loose and may detach.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace air bag module

Recalled models: S CLASS · 712 vehicles

R/2013/13918 Dec 2013Seat belts have not been installed correctly

In rare individual cases the connections of the belts to the front seats may not be installed correctly. As a result on a small batch of vehicles it cannot be completely ruled out that the restraint effect could be impaired with extremely high loads.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check and where necessary correct the belt end fitting.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 26 vehicles

R/2013/03128 Mar 2013Fuel may leak

The flange of the fuel filter may leak due to a non-compliance in the supplier's production process. Should this occur a fuel odour may arise or fuel escape.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the fuel filter.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 806 vehicles

R/2011/17226 Jan 2012Built 2009–2011Fuel may leak

Fuel leaks in the plug area of the drain opening may occur at the fuel filter with integrated fuel heaters. Fuel can escape and is noticeable to the customer due to a corresponding diesel odour. The diesel can reach the road and as a result friction between the tyres and road surface may be decreased.

Fix: Check filter and replace as necessary.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 22,298 vehicles

R/2011/1515 Dec 2011Front seat belt height adjusters may fail

The treaded connection of the front belt height adjuster may not correspond to the high quality required of Mercedes Benz under heavy loads.

Fix: Replace the front height adjusters including the threaded connection.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 33 vehicles

R/2010/2057 Jan 2011Fuel may leak

Fuel may leak from the fuel filter housing onto the road surface and thereby make the road slippery for road users.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the fuel filter housing if it is leaking.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 2,972 vehicles

R/2009/0116 Mar 2009Steering could be impaired

It has been established that the service life of the ABC (Active Body Control) suspension lower ball joint on the front suspension struts does not meet Mercedes-Benz strict quality requirements. In cases of extreme loads the joint could fail which could possibly result in the vehicle losing directional control. Reports of this issue have only occur on very high mileages vehicle which have had been subject to use in rough conditions.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check the ball joint on the front suspension struts and replace the ball joints where necessary.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 209 vehicles

R/2008/15217 Nov 2008Driving stability may be affected

It has been identified that during production or a repair faulty Active Body Control (ABC) acceleration sensors may have been fitted. This has the potential to cause vibrations at the front axle thus influencing the driving stability and operational safety.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the ABC acceleration sensor checked and replaced as necessary.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 256 vehicles

R/2008/14917 Nov 2008Built 2006–2007Engine could lose power.

The electrical connection in the interior of the crankshaft sensor's chip housing may be interrupted which may result in loss of power and the inability to restart engine

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace crankshaft sensor

Recalled models: S CLASS · 19,331 vehicles

R/2008/14810 Nov 2008Built 2007Front lights / indicators and console lights may fail.

The SAM unit may become unreliable due to moisture in a transistor due to incorrect storage. In extreme cases various electrical functions may be affected such as front lights indicators wipers steering column adjustment and centre console lights

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace front SAM control unit

Recalled models: S CLASS · 204 vehicles

R/2008/02030 Nov 2007Built 1999–2003Potential leak of brake line

Corrosion may occur in the brake line to the front/rear axle distibuter. If left unattended this could result in brake fluid leakage and loss of brake efficiency.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the brake pipe with one of a modified design.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 2,987 vehicles

R/2006/14111 Dec 2006Built 2005Instrument cluster may not illuminate.

Instrument cluster may not illuminate at all times.

Fix: Recall vehicles and check the function of the instrument panel. If found to be faulty the instrument panel will be changed.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 5,940 vehicles

R/2006/04619 Jan 2006Engine may revert to limp home mode

The differential pressure sensor for the diesel particulate filter can fail due to contamination of the protective gel layer by exhaust gases. This will result in the car reverting to limp home mode (restricted engine speed).

Fix: Replace the differential pressure sensor with the latest modified type.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 4,869 vehicles

R/2000/1428 May 2001Built 1995–1996Unintentional deployment of air bag

Exposure to high humidity conditions may result in corrosion that can cause the drivers front air bag to deploy unintentionally.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace air bag.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 7,041 vehicles

R/2000/0628 Aug 2000Built 2000Possible fire risk

Due to a short circuit there is a possibility that the heater blower motor regulator may overheat Charring and smouldering may occur if ignored.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace the blower motor regulator with a quality assured unit.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 793 vehicles

R/1997/02522 Apr 1997Built 1995–1996Possible loss of brake fluid

There may be insufficient clearance between the front brake hoses and the tyre inner wall. In the long term this could result in damage to the brake hose(s) with a risk of fluid loss.

Fix: The affected vehicles are being recalled for installation of a spacer to ensure adequate clearance between the front brake hoses and the tyre walls. Any hoses showing signs of previous contact will be changed.

Recalled models: S CLASS · 3,096 vehicles

DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Crown copyright, Open Government Licence).

Checking a Mercedes-Benz S-Class before you buy

Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.

Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests 2023 (Open Government Licence v3.0). Failure rates compare this model with all cars in the same age band. Fix prices are typical independent-garage estimates.
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