MotorDeets

Mercedes-Benz S55 problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every S55 from 2002 to 2006: 12 owner complaints and 0 recalls across 4 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2002 (5), 2003 (4), 2006 (2). Best fuel economy: 17 mpg combined (2002).

Mercedes-Benz S55
Photo: idalingi · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Engine4
Electrical4
Suspension4
Body & structure2
Transmission & drivetrain2
Exterior lights1
Seat belts1
Stability control1

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
20020517
20030415
20040115
20060216

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 S55.

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Mitchell 1 DIY Online access, factory-level data

Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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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 S55?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2002 (5), 2003 (4), 2006 (2).

How many recalls has the Mercedes-Benz S55 had?

Across 2002–2006, NHTSA lists 0 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).