Market Position:
The 2001 Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG (W220) represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the S-Class sedan range, targeting discerning clientele who prioritized effortless power, advanced technology, and unparalleled comfort. It competed directly with other high-performance luxury sedans from brands like BMW (7 Series), Audi (A8), and Bentley.
Competitive Analysis:
The S55 AMG distinguished itself with its supercharged V8 engine, offering superior horsepower and torque compared to many naturally aspirated competitors. Its advanced Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system provided exceptional ride quality and handling balance, setting it apart from systems relying solely on air suspension or conventional adaptive damping.
Key Features:
Supercharged 5.4L V8 engine, Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, COMAND infotainment system with navigation, premium leather interior, advanced safety features, sophisticated electronic systems, AMG-specific styling cues.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Bodywork, HVAC, Interior, Exterior Trim, Diagnostic Procedures, Maintenance Schedules, Troubleshooting Guides
Page Count:
Extensive (specific number not provided in product data, but implies comprehensive coverage for software)
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Digital Download)
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical and electrical systems, 5G-Tronic automatic transmission, ABC (Active Body Control) suspension, COMAND infotainment system, CAN bus network, climate control, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), power steering, lighting, power accessories, body control modules
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, diagnostic fault code retrieval and interpretation, component testing, engine overhaul, transmission repair and rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system servicing, electrical troubleshooting and repair, HVAC system diagnosis and repair, body panel removal and installation, programming and coding procedures for control modules
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid changes to in-depth diagnostic procedures and complete component overhauls and rebuilds. Includes wiring diagrams, component locations, torque specifications, and special tool requirements.
Engine Displacement:
5.4 Liters (5439 cc)
Horsepower:
493 hp @ 6100 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
516 lb-ft @ 2750-4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 Synthetic (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent meeting MB 229.5 specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 Liters (approx.)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 92.0 mm
Valvetrain:
Single Overhead Camshafts (SOHC), 3 valves per cylinder
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (5G-Tronic)
Transmission Features:
TouchShift manual shifting mode, adaptive shifting logic
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., ATF 3353)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 Liters (for a complete drain and refill, may vary)
Final Drive Ratio:
3.06:1 (approx.)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not explicitly rated for this specific AMG model by NHTSA in the standard format, but generally high for the W220 chassis.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control System (ASR), Active Body Control (ABC) for stability enhancement, Bi-Xenon headlamps with automatic leveling, tire pressure monitoring system.
Passive Features:
Front and side airbags for driver and front passenger, front and rear side curtain airbags, Active head restraints, crumple zones, reinforced safety cell, three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Brake System Front:
Ventilated and perforated discs with 4-piston calipers
Brake System Rear:
Ventilated discs with 2-piston calipers
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated navigation, radio, CD player, and optional television tuner.
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with multiple speakers and subwoofer.
Driver Assistance:
Distronic (adaptive cruise control), Parktronic (parking assist sensors), rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control.
Connectivity:
Integrated telephone system (optional, often analog or early digital), CD changer.
Comfort Features:
Multi-contour front seats with heating and ventilation, heated rear seats, power adjustable steering column, memory seats, power-adjustable steering wheel, keyless-go (optional).
Service A Interval:
Approximately every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (indicated by 'Service A' on the instrument cluster).
Service B Interval:
Approximately every 20,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first (indicated by 'Service B' on the instrument cluster). This typically includes a more comprehensive check and fluid changes.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or MB 326.0)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 PLUS (or MB 331.0 specification)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S or MB approved power steering fluid
Known Issues:
ABC suspension system leaks and component failures (e.g., struts, pumps), electronic module failures (e.g., EIS, ECU), crank position sensor failures, catalytic converter degradation, oil leaks from the supercharger snout seal, and potential issues with the COMAND system.
Common Repairs:
Replacement of ABC suspension hydraulic lines, strut replacements, ABC pump rebuild or replacement, EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) module repair/replacement, intake manifold gaskets, valve cover gaskets, oxygen sensors, and transmission service.
Oil Filter Part Number:
A 113 180 00 09 (example, verify with VIN)
Air Filter Part Number:
A 113 094 00 04 (example, verify with VIN)
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and pioneering automotive technology. The S-Class, in particular, has consistently represented the flagship of the brand, introducing innovations that often set industry standards.
Model Evolution:
The W220 generation of the S-Class, introduced in 1998, marked a significant departure from its predecessor with a more streamlined and aerodynamically efficient design. The S55 AMG variant, introduced for the 2001 model year, brought a powerful supercharged engine to the range, significantly elevating its performance credentials.
Production Period:
2001-2006 (for the W220 S55 AMG)
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
