Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors 2002:
BMW 7 Series (E65), Audi A8 (D3), Lexus LS 430, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac DeVille
Differentiation:
The W220 S-Class emphasized comfort, advanced technology, and a refined driving experience, often featuring innovative systems like Active Body Control (ABC) and COMAND infotainment.
Technological Advancements:
Bi-Xenon headlights, keyless go, Distronic adaptive cruise control, advanced navigation systems, multicontour seats with massage function, Dolby Digital sound systems.
Design Philosophy:
Sleek, aerodynamic, and elegant styling, representing a departure from the more angular preceding W140 model, focusing on a more contemporary and less imposing presence.
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z for the 2002 S-Class (W220)
Page Count:
Extensive (typically 2000+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF) - Searchable and printable
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust system, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system
Chassis:
Suspension (Active Body Control - ABC, Airmatic DC), steering, brakes (including ABS, ESP), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, infotainment, telematics, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body electronics (e.g., SAM modules, EIS, KLA)
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control system (HVAC), airbags, safety restraint systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic tool usage (e.g., STAR Diagnosis)
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment procedures for all major systems
Adjustments Calibrations:
Resetting service indicators, calibration of sensors and modules (e.g., steering angle sensor, ride height)
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic troubleshooting to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and component-level repair
Engine Family:
Mercedes-Benz M113 V8
Engine Code And Displacement:
S 430: M113.940 (4.3L / 4266cc), S 500: M113.960 (5.0L / 4966cc)
S430 Horsepower:
275 hp @ 6100 rpm
S430 Torque:
284 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
S500 Horsepower:
302 hp @ 6000 rpm
S500 Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), sequential multi-point
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
ECU Type:
ME 2.8 (or similar Siemens/Bosch ECU variants)
Transmission Type:
5-speed automatic (5G-TRONIC)
Transmission Code:
722.6xx series
All Wheel Drive:
Optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive system available on S 430 and S 500 models.
Driving Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.14 ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7-9 liters (dry fill), 5-6 liters (fluid level check)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star (driver and passenger)
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP - Electronic Stability Program)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Acceleration Skid Control)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags (front and rear optional), window airbags
Seat Belt Pretensioners:
Standard with force limiters
Active Head Restraints:
Standard front head restraints
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Features:
CD player, GPS navigation (often with map DVD), radio, climate control interface, optional TV tuner
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Distronic (optional)
Parking Assistance:
Parkingtronic parking sensors (front and rear)
Telematics:
Tele Aid emergency call system (subscription-based)
Seat Technology:
Multicontour seats, dynamic side bolsters, climate control (heated/ventilated), optional massage function
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (dependent on driving conditions and oil type).
Major Service Interval:
Around 30,000, 60,000, 90,000 miles, involving more extensive inspections and replacements (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid).
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-30)
Engine Oil Capacity:
S 430: 8.0 liters (8.5 US qt), S 500: 8.0 liters (8.5 US qt)
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, silicate-free)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (or DOT 4)
Air Suspension Problems:
Leaking ABC struts, suspension pump failure, accumulator bladder rupture (common for W220)
Ignition System:
Coil pack failures, ignition module issues
Electronics:
SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) failures, CAN bus communication errors, EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) issues
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant reservoir cracks, radiator leaks, thermostat housing leaks
Interior Components:
Headliner sagging, pixels missing from instrument cluster display (SID), seat wear
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and automotive innovation.
W220 Introduction:
The W220 succeeded the W140 S-Class in 1998, aiming for a more modern and less bulky design while incorporating advanced technologies.
Production Period:
1998-2005
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Sindelfingen, Germany
Car Of The Year:
While the W220 itself may not have won specific 'Car of the Year' awards globally in 2002, the S-Class lineage consistently earns critical acclaim for luxury and innovation.
Jd Power Initial Quality:
Typically ranked highly in initial quality for its segment, though long-term dependability could vary based on specific features like ABC.
