Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ, Porsche Panamera (though Panamera entered later).
Distinction:
Represents Mercedes-Benz's flagship luxury sedan, known for advanced technology, comfort, and sophisticated engineering. The 'Sport' package likely includes AMG styling cues and suspension tuning.
Philosophy:
Emphasizes 'The Best or Nothing,' focusing on premium materials, cutting-edge technology, safety, and driving dynamics.
Systems Covered:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S.), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications
Estimated Pages:
Estimated 300-400 pages (typical for this era's S-Class owner's manual)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel, oil, battery, air intake system basic information.
Chassis:
Brake system overview (owner level), suspension (general), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Lighting systems, instrument cluster, basic information on electronic systems (entertainment, climate control).
Interior:
Seats, safety restraints, climate controls, locks, security, driver controls, entertainment systems.
Maintenance:
Information on checking fluids (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning procedures, refueling instructions.
Operation:
Operation of all vehicle controls, infotainment system usage, climate control settings, lighting functions, security system activation/deactivation.
Safety:
Proper use of seat belts, child seat installation guidance, airbag system overview, driving safety tips.
Depth:
Owner-focused; covers operation, basic checks, and maintenance. Does not include diagnostic codes, detailed repair procedures, or component-level troubleshooting found in a Service Manual.
Requirements:
Requires a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader, or comparable).
Quality:
Digital scan of factory manual; quality depends on original source, typically clear and legible for PDF.
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones).
Horsepower:
Approximately 382 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm
System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential multi-point injection.
Layout:
Naturally Aspirated, V8 configuration.
Octane Rating:
Premium Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (RON+MON)/96 AKI or higher recommended.
Transmission Type:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Drive Modes:
Driver-selectable modes (e.g., Comfort, Sport) affecting shift points and throttle response.
Manual Mode:
TouchShift manual shifting via steering wheel paddle shifters or selector lever.
Fluid Type:
MB Specification 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent.
Length:
Approx. 200.9 inches (5103 mm)
Width:
Approx. 73.7 inches (1872 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.0 inches (1448 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4300-4500 lbs (1950-2041 kg), varies with options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 5500 lbs (2495 kg).
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star (for 2006 model year S-Class variants)
IIHS Crash Test:
Good (Top Safety Pick equivalent for its class at the time)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) standard.
Brake Assist:
Brake Assist System (BAS) standard.
Airbags:
Dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, rear side airbags, curtain airbags (window bags).
Seat Restraints:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters for all seating positions, ISOFIX/LATCH child seat anchor points.
Pre Safe:
PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system.
System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with a central display, CD/DVD player, AM/FM radio, optional SiriusXM satellite radio, and navigation system.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, Media Interface (optional, for connecting external devices like iPod).
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control) system available.
Parking Assistance:
Front and rear PARKTRONIC parking sensors, optional rearview camera.
Climate Control:
THERMATIC or THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control with multiple zones (e.g., dual-zone or four-zone).
Lighting:
Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, LED taillights, ambient interior lighting.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (refer to flexible service schedule). Indicated by 'Service A' or 'Service B' on the instrument cluster.
Major Service Intervals:
Major services involving spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant, etc., typically around 30,000-60,000 mile intervals. Detailed in the manual.
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic engine oil meeting MB-Approval 229.5 specification.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or equivalent), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. MB-Approval 325.0 or 326.0.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus or DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid (MB-Approval 331.0).
Common Wear Items:
Air suspension components (struts, compressor), Active Body Control (ABC) system (if equipped, though less common on S500 4MATIC), ignition coils, various electronic sensors, oil cooler seals.
Engine Air Filter Part Number:
Example: A273 094 07 04 (or equivalent from reputable aftermarket brands).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 U.S. quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change.
Engine Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.5 U.S. quarts (10.0 liters).
Origin:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing luxury automobiles dating back to the late 19th century, with the S-Class lineage tracing back to models like the 'Sonderklasse' (Special Class).
Generation:
W221 generation, introduced for the 2006 model year, representing a significant redesign from the W220 generation, featuring updated styling, interior, and technology.
Manufacturing Location:
Primary manufacturing in Sindelfingen, Germany.
