MotorDeets

Mercedes-Benz S 500 problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every S 500 from 2021 to 2023: 2 owner complaints and 10 recalls across 2 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2021 (1), 2023 (1). Best fuel economy: 24 mpg combined (2021).

Mercedes-Benz S 500
Photo: Randall Ferry · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Engine & cooling1
Brakes1
Forward collision avoidance1
Electrical1

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
20217124
20233123

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Mercedes-Benz S 500.

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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Mercedes-Benz S 500?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2021 (1), 2023 (1).

How many recalls has the Mercedes-Benz S 500 had?

Across 2021–2023, NHTSA lists 10 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).