Question 1

What is Airmatic / ABC suspension failure on the Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)?

Accepted Answer

Air springs leak and compressors wear out. ABC (Active Body Control) hydraulic systems on sport models are even more expensive to repair. Cars sag on one corner and throw suspension warnings.

Question 2

What is M273 V8 balance shaft sprocket wear on the Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)?

Accepted Answer

The V6 and V8 M273 engines can suffer from balance shaft sprocket wear, which alters engine timing and can lead to catastrophic failure if not caught early.

Question 3

What is COMAND infotainment glitches on the Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)?

Accepted Answer

The COMAND system can develop disc read errors, screen freezing and audio dropouts. Replacement units are very expensive.

Question 4

What should I check when buying a used Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)?

Accepted Answer

Test the Airmatic or ABC suspension from cold; leave it parked overnight before buying.

Question 5

What should I check when buying a used Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)?

Accepted Answer

Check the COMAND infotainment system for lag, rebooting or disc read errors.

Question 6

What should I check when buying a used Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)?

Accepted Answer

V8 petrols need evidence of regular oil changes and check for balance shaft wear on early M273 engines.

Question 7

What years was the Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) made?

Accepted Answer

The Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) was produced from 2005 to 2013.

Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) Reliability & Common Faults

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