Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ.
Platform:
W220 platform, representing a significant technological advancement for Mercedes-Benz.
Infotainment Advancement:
The COMAND APS system was a flagship infotainment and navigation system for its era.
Luxury Appointments:
Known for its opulent interior, advanced comfort features, and high-quality materials.
System Comparison:
COMAND APS offered a more integrated and sophisticated user experience compared to many aftermarket navigation units of the time.
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation).
Navigation System:
Integrated GPS navigation with map data and route guidance.
Audio System:
Radio, CD player, CD changer (if equipped), and audio settings.
Communication System:
Hands-free telephony (Bluetooth, if equipped) and phone book management.
Climate Control Integration:
Control and display of climate control functions.
Vehicle Settings:
Access to various vehicle settings and personalization options.
Display Functions:
Operation of the central display unit for all COMAND functions.
Basic Operation:
Step-by-step guides for common operations.
Navigation Usage:
Entering destinations, planning routes, and following directions.
Audio Customization:
Adjusting sound settings, managing playlists, and using the CD changer.
Phone Integration:
Pairing a mobile phone, making calls, and managing contacts.
Troubleshooting Tips:
Basic guidance for common system errors or issues.
Settings Adjustment:
Personalizing display brightness, language, and audio preferences.
Depth:
Operator-level information for daily use and basic troubleshooting.
Diagnostics Scope:
Does not cover detailed electronic diagnostics or repair procedures.
Repair Scope:
Excludes internal component repair or replacement procedures.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scan from factory original.
N A:
Not applicable to digital format, but derived from high-quality factory source.
N A:
Not applicable to digital format.
N A:
Not applicable to digital format.
Estimated Pages:
~150-200 (typical for this system and model year).
Engine Code:
M113 (V8 engine variants for W220 chassis).
Engine Configuration:
4.7L or 5.0L SOHC V8 (depending on specific S-Class model).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 300-320 hp for V8 models.
Torque Range:
Approximately 340-360 lb-ft for V8 models.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher).
IIHS Front Crash:
Good (for models tested).
NHTSA Front Crash:
Not directly rated in the same format as today's standards, but designed to meet stringent safety requirements.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Brake Assist:
Brake Assist System (BAS).
Airbags:
Front, side, and curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters.
Display Type:
7-inch color LCD display integrated into the dashboard.
Control Interface:
Rotary knob and buttons located on the center console.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling (if equipped with the Tele Aid system or optional phone).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Distronic (adaptive cruise control).
Parking Assistance:
Optional front and rear Parktronic parking sensors.
Media Sources:
AM/FM radio, CD player (single disc or optional 6-disc changer), auxiliary input (on some models).
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (based on Flexible Service System - FSS).
Major Service Points:
Spark plugs at ~100,000 miles; transmission service ~60,000 miles (though manufacturer recommendations can vary).
Engine Oil:
Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 (Mercedes-Benz Specification 229.5).
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Coolant (Antifreeze) Formula 325.0 (Blue).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0).
Electronic Modules:
Failure of SAM modules, EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch), or transmission control modules can occur.
Air Suspension:
Airmatic suspension system can develop leaks in struts or compressor failures.
Catalytic Converters:
Premature failure or clogging of catalytic converters can be an issue.
Wiper Park Mechanism:
Failure of the wiper park mechanism, leading to inoperable wipers.
Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and safety.
W220 Generation:
The W220 S-Class, introduced for the 1999 model year, represented a significant departure from its predecessor with a focus on lighter materials and advanced technology.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen).
Production Years:
W220 S-Class produced from 1998 to 2005.
Vehicle Awards:
The W220 S-Class was generally well-received for its comfort, technology, and performance, contributing to Mercedes-Benz's image as a luxury leader.
Infotainment Reputation:
COMAND APS was considered a premium and advanced infotainment system for its time, setting benchmarks for integration.