Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan, High-Performance Variant
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (745i/760i), Audi A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ
Performance Focus:
AMG-tuned V8 engine, supercharger, sport-tuned suspension, enhanced braking
Luxury Appointments:
Premium materials, advanced comfort features, sophisticated technology
Powertrain:
Engine (M113 E55 ML), supercharger, transmission (5G-TRONIC)
Chassis And Suspension:
ABC (Active Body Control) suspension, brakes (AMG high-performance), steering
Interior Systems:
Climate control (THERMOTRONIC), COMAND infotainment, power seating, door locks, security systems, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)
Exterior Features:
Lighting (headlights, taillights, fog lamps), power windows, mirrors, sunroof
Operation:
Vehicle startup, driving controls, instrument cluster interpretation, climate control operation, infotainment usage, seat adjustment
Maintenance:
Basic checks (oil level, tire pressure, fluid levels), cleaning instructions, fuel recommendations
Safety:
Seat belt usage, child seat installation, airbag system explanation, emergency procedures
Troubleshooting:
Warning lamps interpretation, basic diagnostic indicators
Depth:
Owner-level operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting; not a service or repair manual
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated V8, SOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
5.4 Liters (5439 cc)
Aspiration:
Supercharged (Roots-type supercharger)
Horsepower:
493 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque:
516 lb-ft @ 2650-4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
Transmission Type:
5-speed automatic with AMG SpeedShift
Gear Ratios:
Refer to specific service data for detailed ratios (not typically in owner's manual)
Amg Speedshift Functionality:
Faster shift times, manual mode with paddle shifters (or selector lever buttons)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (e.g., Mobil ATF 134)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for driver and passenger)
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good
Brake Assist System:
BAS (Brake Assist System)
Electronic Stability Program:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags (head protection)
Seat Belts:
Pretensioners, force limiters, height adjusters
Comand System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated navigation, radio, CD player, and optional telephone interface.
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system (optional)
Adaptive Cruise Control:
DISTRONIC (optional)
Parking Assistance:
Front and rear PARKTRONIC parking sensors
Telephone Integration:
Hands-free calling via integrated Bluetooth or proprietary cradle (optional)
Oil Change Interval:
Variable based on 'Service A'/'Service B' indicators, typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to manual for specific mileage-based inspections (e.g., 30,000, 60,000 miles)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40, MB-Approval 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 Formula M)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, blue-green, silicate-free)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (or DOT 4)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 343.0 (or Pentosin CHF 11 S)
Abc Suspension Leaks:
Common for ABC suspension struts and lines to develop leaks over time, requiring hydraulic fluid replacement and component repair/replacement.
Ignition Coil Failure:
Individual ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires and rough running.
Supercharger Coupler Wear:
The supercharger drive coupler can wear, leading to a loss of boost or unusual noises.
E55 Amg Specific:
The intercooler pump can fail, affecting engine performance.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Pioneering automotive safety, luxury, and engineering excellence since the late 19th century.
S Class Lineage:
The S-Class represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz luxury and technology, dating back to the S-Class nomenclature introduced in 1972 (W116).
W220 Generation:
The W220 generation (1998-2005) introduced significant advancements in vehicle dynamics, electronics, and safety, including the innovative Active Body Control (ABC) suspension.
Amg Integration:
AMG, Mercedes-Benz's in-house performance division, took the W220 S-Class and infused it with significant powertrain and chassis upgrades to create the S55 AMG.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
