Positioning:
The 2006 Mercedes-Benz S500 (W221) represents the pinnacle of luxury and technology for its era, competing directly with high-end sedans from brands like BMW (7 Series), Audi (A8), and Lexus (LS).
Competitors:
BMW 750i (E65/E66), Audi A8 4.2 FSI Quattro (D3), Lexus LS 460 (XF40), Jaguar XJ8 (X350).
Vehicle Highlights:
Advanced Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, powerful V8 engine, sophisticated COMAND infotainment system, premium interior materials, extensive safety features.
Mechanical Systems:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Steering
Electrical Systems:
Powertrain Control, Body Electronics, Infotainment, Lighting, HVAC Electronics
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Trim, Seats, Safety Restraints
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault Code Interpretation, Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Repair Procedures
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (Software-based, dynamically generated)
Type:
Official Factory Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Digital Download)
Engine Management:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, cooling, lubrication
Drivetrain:
722.9 '7G-TRONIC' automatic transmission, driveshafts, differentials
Suspension And Steering:
Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, airmatic suspension, power steering system
Brakes:
ABS, ESP, brake system components, parking brake
Electrical And Electronics:
CAN bus architecture, ECU diagnostics, comfort systems (e.g., climate control, seats), lighting, infotainment (COMAND)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission service, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhauls
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) lookup, circuit diagrams, test procedures for sensors and actuators
Adjustments And Calibration:
Wheel alignment, steering angle sensor calibration, suspension height adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Software Requirements:
Compatible with most modern Windows operating systems. Searchable PDF index or proprietary viewer included.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution graphics, diagrams, and text for clear reproduction if printed.
Digital Access:
Instant digital download with license key.
N/A:
Not applicable for software format.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
5.5 Liters (5461 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
98.0 mm x 90.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Horsepower:
382 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
391 lb-ft (530 Nm) @ 2800-4800 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher)
Injection System:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved, ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., G48 or similar)
Oil Type:
MB 229.5 (SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (8.9 US quarts)
Transmission Type:
722.9 '7G-TRONIC' 7-Speed Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmission:
N/A for S500 model year 2006
Transmission Features:
TouchShift manual shifting capability, Comfort, Sport, and Manual modes.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 (ATF LT 71141 or equivalent, e.g., Pentosin ATF 1)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 Liters (10.0 US quarts) for complete fill
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for models with side airbags and pre-tensioners)
IIHS Front Offset:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Active Suspension (ABC), Pre-Safe® predictive occupant protection system, PARKTRONIC parking assist.
Passive Safety:
Front and side airbags, side curtain airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters, active head restraints, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell.
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Entertainment) system with integrated navigation, radio, CD/DVD changer, and optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC PLUS), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Night View Assist (optional), Keyless-Go.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free communication, voice control (Linguatronic), SiriusXM satellite radio (optional).
Lighting Technology:
Bi-Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination, LED taillights.
Oil Change Interval:
Flexible Service System (FSS) indicates based on driving conditions, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months.
Transmission Service Interval:
Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles (check manual for specific conditions).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Coolant:
MB-Approval 325.0 (G48 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB-Approval 343.0 (Hydraulic Fluid)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0)
Abc Suspension Leaks:
Common issues include leaking ABC system hoses, struts, and the ABC pump. Requires specialized diagnosis and fluid.
Ignition Coils And Spark Plugs:
M273 engines can experience premature failure of ignition coils and require regular spark plug replacement.
Harmonic Balancer:
The crankshaft harmonic balancer can degrade over time, leading to vibrations and potential belt slippage.
7G Tronic Transmission:
Transmission control module (TCM) issues or torque converter problems can occur, often requiring software updates or replacements.
Electronics And Modules:
Various electronic control units (ECUs) and sensors can fail, often due to moisture ingress or age. Requires advanced diagnostic tools.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive safety and comfort innovations.
S Class Lineage:
The S-Class has been Mercedes-Benz's flagship luxury sedan for decades, representing the company's technological forefront. The W221 generation succeeded the W220 and introduced significant advancements in design, electronics, and safety.
Production Years:
2005-2013 (for W221 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Sindelfingen, Germany
