IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2005–2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2005–2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
0
Moderate
1
Minor

The 2005–2009 period has 1 more issue than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Airmatic / ABC suspension failure

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

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.

Most affected: All models with Airmatic or ABC

Estimated cost: £800–£3,000Affects: 2005–2013Often appears around: 60,000–120,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •One corner sits low
  • •Suspension malfunction warning
  • •Noisy compressor or hydraulic pump

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Leave the car parked before viewing
  • ✓Listen for compressor or pump noise
  • ✓Check ride height on all four corners

M273 V8 balance shaft sprocket wear

SeriousEngine

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.

Most affected: S 350, S 500

Estimated cost: £2,000–£4,000Affects: 2005–2009Often appears around: 40,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Engine management light (P0016/P0017 codes)
  • •Rough idle
  • •Loss of power

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check engine number against known affected range
  • ✓Ask for invoice proof of sprocket replacement
  • ✓Scan for camshaft position codes

COMAND infotainment glitches

MinorElectrics & Electronics

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

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £200–£800Affects: 2005–2013

Typical symptoms

  • •Disc read errors
  • •Screen freezing
  • •Audio cutting out

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test navigation, media and reversing camera
  • ✓Check for latest software updates
  • ✓Ask about previous COMAND repairs

Buying Tips for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)

  • ✓Test the Airmatic or ABC suspension from cold; leave it parked overnight before buying.
  • ✓Check the COMAND infotainment system for lag, rebooting or disc read errors.
  • ✓V8 petrols need evidence of regular oil changes and check for balance shaft wear on early M273 engines.
2010–2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)

Browse 2005–2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2005–2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) vehicles.

View 2005–2009 Directory

Other Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) Year Periods

2005–20092010–2013

Looking at a specific 2005 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221)?

Enter the registration number to check its full MOT history, outstanding finance, write-off status, and more.

Free Vehicle Check