🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S-Class

Model Variant:

S500

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

W220

Engine Code:

M113.960

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size luxury sedan

Brand Perception:

Represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering and luxury for its era, competing with top-tier luxury vehicles.

Competitors:

BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac DeVille/DTS.

Luxury And Comfort:

Advanced suspension systems (ABC - Active Body Control on some models), premium interior materials, sophisticated climate control, extensive power adjustments for seating.

Technology:

Early adoption of advanced electronic systems, COMAND infotainment system, optional adaptive cruise control (DISTRONIC).

Performance:

Smooth and powerful V8 engine, refined ride quality, excellent sound insulation.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

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. only), 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 Page Count:

Approx. 350-450 pages (typical for this model)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF (Instant Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust systems (overview).

Chassis:

Suspension (overview), braking system (operation), steering system (operation).

Electrical:

Lighting controls, instrument cluster, power accessories, basic electrical system operation (overview).

Comfort And Convenience:

Climate control, power seats, power windows, door locks, central locking, keyless entry, sunroof operation.

Infotainment:

Audio system operation, navigation system (if equipped, overview), telematics (overview).

Safety Systems:

Airbags, seat belts, child seat installation, ABS, ESP (operation).

Routine Maintenance:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning instructions, jump starting procedures.

Operation And Controls:

Detailed explanation of all dashboard controls, switches, and indicators. Operation of infotainment, climate, and lighting systems.

Troubleshooting Basic:

Guidance on common warning lights and their meaning, basic fault identification for user-addressable issues.

Security:

Keyless entry system operation, anti-theft alarm system, central locking.

Driving Techniques:

Tips for efficient driving, understanding vehicle behavior, operation in different conditions (e.g., rain, snow).

Depth:

Designed for the vehicle owner, focusing on operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Readable on any device with a PDF reader (e.g., Acrobat Reader, Foxit).

Quality:

Digital reproduction of factory original; quality depends on source scan but is intended to be clear and legible.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4.3L V8 (M113)

Displacement:

4266 cc (4.3 Liters)

Configuration:

SOHC 3 valves per cylinder, naturally aspirated

Horsepower:

Approx. 295 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 302 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Induction:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Spark Plugs:

Bosch FGR7DQP or equivalent (Long-life, platinum/iridium)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic with TouchShift

Transmission Code:

722.6

Operation:

Electronically controlled with adaptive shifting programs, manual shifting mode (TouchShift) for driver control.

Fluid Type:

MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 Liters (18.5 US quarts) for a complete change with torque converter.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 199.9 inches (5078 mm)

Width:

Approx. 73.7 inches (1872 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 119.5 inches (3035 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3900-4100 lbs (1769-1860 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for the driver and front passenger)

IIHS Front Impact:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esp:

Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / ADAPTIVE ESP

Brakes:

Vented front and rear disc brakes

Airbags:

Dual front airbags, front side airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags (Thorax-Pelvis bags) standard.

Seat Belts:

Pretensioning front seat belts, three-point seat belts for all seating positions.

Child Seats:

ISOFIX/LATCH lower anchors and tethers for child seats.

💡 Technology Features

Comand System:

COMAND 2.5 or COMAND APS; controls audio, navigation (optional), phone integration (optional), and vehicle settings. Features include CD player, radio, cassette player (early models).

Instrument Cluster:

High-resolution digital display with analog gauges, integrated trip computer, warning indicators, and service reminders.

Distronic:

Optional Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC) system that maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead.

Parking Assist:

Optional front and rear parktronic sensors.

Phone Integration:

Optional hands-free communication system, often via a cradle for specific Motorola phones or Bluetooth on later W220 revisions.

Headlights:

Standard Xenon (High-Intensity Discharge) headlights with automatic leveling and headlight washers.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable, based on 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicators shown on the instrument cluster, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.

Transmission Service Interval:

Recommended every 60,000 - 80,000 miles (check manual for specific guidance).

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Change:

Initial change at 150,000 miles, then every 75,000 miles or 3 years (using Mercedes-Benz approved coolant).

Engine Oil Spec:

MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent full synthetic).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US quarts) with filter.

Coolant Spec:

Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue or Green variant depending on region/exact spec, typically MB 325.0 or 326.0).

Common Problems:

ABC suspension hydraulic leaks/pump failure, O2 sensor failures, ignition coil failures, crankcase ventilation (CCV) hose degradation, door lock actuator failures, E-Class window regulator issues (can sometimes affect S-Class), rust on wheel arches and lower body panels, transmission conductor plate issues.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter HU 718/5y or OEM A0001802609

Air Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter C35155/1 or OEM A2720940204

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Founded on principles of engineering excellence and automotive innovation, Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing luxury and technologically advanced vehicles, including pioneering the modern automobile.

W220 Generation:

The W220 S-Class, produced from 1998 to 2005, represented a significant step forward in technology and design for the S-Class line. It was larger, more aerodynamic, and incorporated advanced electronics and safety features compared to its predecessors.

S500 Positioning:

The S500 served as the primary volume model in the S-Class lineup, offering a balance of performance, luxury, and technology, powered by Mercedes-Benz's potent V8 engine.

Manufacturing Location:

Sindelfingen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Common Accolades:

Consistently ranked among the best luxury sedans for comfort, refinement, and engineering prowess by automotive journalists and publications during its production run.