🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S550

Year:

2007

Chassis Code:

W221

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Flagship luxury sedan, representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering and comfort. Competes directly with other ultra-luxury vehicles from brands like BMW (7 Series), Audi (A8), Lexus (LS), and Porsche (Panamera).

Competitive Analysis:

The 2007 S550 (W221) offered advanced technology, superior ride quality with its innovative suspension systems (ABC/AIRMATIC), and a powerful yet refined V8 engine. Its key selling points were comfort, safety, and sophisticated features, positioning it as a benchmark for luxury sedans of its era.

Key Features:

Comfort-oriented chassis, powerful M273 engine, advanced driver assistance systems, sophisticated interior appointments, premium materials, state-of-the-art COMAND infotainment, innovative suspension technologies.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Body & Chassis, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair Procedures

Page Count:

Extensive (Software typically contains thousands of pages equivalent to print manuals)

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital, likely PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical and electrical systems (M273 V8 engine), 7-G-TRONIC automatic transmission, 4MATIC all-wheel drive (if applicable), Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, AIRMATIC air suspension, DIRECT CONTROL suspension, electro-hydraulic power steering, ABS, ESP, brake system components, climate control (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), COMAND infotainment system, lighting systems, CAN bus communication, wiring diagrams, body control modules, instrument cluster, SRS (Airbag) system, security systems, comfort systems (seats, windows, sunroof), keyless-go, parking assist, navigation system.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), scheduled servicing, component diagnostics, troubleshooting guides, repair and replacement procedures for all major systems, torque specifications, wiring harness routing, software updates and diagnostics, component testing, calibration procedures, body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation, emission control system servicing.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventive maintenance and fluid checks to in-depth diagnostic procedures, component-level troubleshooting, and complete mechanical and electrical system overhauls. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with explanations, component testing specifications, and factory-recommended repair techniques.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (typically searchable PDF or proprietary application with hyperlinked navigation)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, but typically high-resolution diagrams and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M273 E55 (5.5L)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

5461 cc (5.5 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

97.0 mm x 90.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC 4 Valves per Cylinder (32 valves total) with Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

Horsepower:

382 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 meeting Mercedes-Benz MB 229.5 specification

Engine Oil Capacity:

8.5 quarts (8.0 Liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 11.5 quarts (10.9 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-G-TRONIC Automatic Transmission

Number Of Gears:

7 Forward, 1 Reverse

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Spec 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), e.g., Mobil ATF 134

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 9.5 quarts (9.0 Liters) for torque converter refill

Features:

Tiptronic manual shifting capability, Comfort, Sport, and Manual modes, Predictive Shift Control.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

200.0 inches (5080 mm)

Width:

73.7 inches (1872 mm)

Height:

58.2 inches (1478 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.7 inches (2965 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4400-4500 lbs (2000-2040 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 5700-5800 lbs (2585-2630 kg)

Trunk Capacity:

Approximately 16.7 cubic feet (473 Liters)

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels

Standard Tire Size:

255/50R17 or 255/40R18

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 112 mm

Center Bore:

66.6 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

5-Star (Overall, Driver, Passenger)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (typically awarded based on available testing)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, rear side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags (front and rear), front knee airbags.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, Active Head Restraints (NECK-PRO).

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in rear outboard seating positions.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP).

Driver Assistance:

Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC PLUS), PRE-SAFE® anticipatory safety system, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist (optional), Night View Assist (optional), Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with a 7-inch display, AM/FM/CD/DVD player, HDD navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.

Instrument Cluster:

Digital LCD display integrated into the instrument cluster for vehicle information, navigation prompts, and system warnings.

Driver Assistance Features:

DISTRONIC PLUS (adaptive cruise control), PARKTRONIC (parking sensors), rearview camera (optional), Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Night View Assist, PRE-SAFE® system.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, Voice Control system (LINGUATRONIC), optional SiriusXM satellite radio.

Lighting:

Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, LED taillights, ambient interior lighting.

🔧 Maintenance

Service A:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Includes synthetic oil and filter change, tire rotation, inspection of brakes, fluids, and various vehicle systems.

Service B:

Typically every 20,000 miles or 24 months (following Service A). Includes all Service A items plus cabin air filter replacement, brake fluid replacement, and more comprehensive inspections.

Transmission Service Interval:

Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles (check manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).

Coolant Replacement:

Every 5 years or 60,000 miles.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mercedes-Benz approved hydraulic fluid, consult manual for specific type (often a synthetic-based fluid).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 PLUS (MB Spec 331.0)

Known Issues:

Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic leaks and pump failures, AIRMATIC suspension compressor failures and air leakages, coolant leaks from plastic end tanks on radiators, CAN bus communication errors, transmission conductor plate issues, ignition coil failures, and certain electronic module malfunctions. Regular diagnostic scanning is crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, is renowned for its legacy of automotive innovation, luxury, and engineering excellence, particularly in its S-Class line, which has consistently set benchmarks in automotive technology and comfort since its inception.

Model Evolution:

The W221 generation of the S-Class, introduced for the 2006 model year, represented a significant leap forward from its predecessor (W220). It featured a more imposing design, advanced electronic systems, and refined powertrains, including the new 5.5L V8 for the S550.

Production Location:

Sindelfingen, Germany

Production Years:

2006-2013 (for W221 generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The S-Class line consistently receives accolades for luxury, comfort, and technological innovation. While specific awards for the 2007 S550 might vary, the W221 generation was generally recognized as a leader in its segment for automotive engineering and luxury features.