Class:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ.
Luxury Features:
W220 S-Class offered advanced technology, supreme comfort, and refined performance, setting benchmarks in the luxury segment.
Technology Highlights:
Features like Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC), COMAND infotainment system, and advanced safety systems.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (722.6), driveshaft, differential, axles.
Suspension Steering:
Active Body Control (ABC), air suspension, struts, shocks, steering linkage, power steering.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) system, parking brake.
Electrical:
12V battery system, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuse box, relays, CAN bus network, control modules (ECU, TCU, ABC control, etc.).
Body Chassis:
Body and chassis components, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, exterior trim, HVAC system (including climate control, A/C, heating), sunroof.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit diagnosis.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul procedures for all covered systems.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including testing of sensors, actuators, and control modules; use of Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and programming.
Engine Type:
V8, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
4.966 liters (303 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 3 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust), with dual spark plugs per cylinder.
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3100 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Port Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Oil Type Recommendation:
Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic (MB-Approval 229.5)
Oil Capacity:
8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (722.6)
Optional Transmission:
N/A for S500 (S600 offered V12 with different transmission)
Transmission Features:
TouchShift manual shifting capability, Comfort/Sport modes.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.12 (e.g., Shell ATF 134, Pentosin ATF 134)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 liters (dry fill)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-star
ABS:
Standard, with Brake Assist (BAS)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Acceleration Skid Control)
Electronic Stability:
Standard (ESP - Electronic Stability Program)
Braking System:
Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) - electro-hydraulic brake system
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags (window airbags).
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters for all seating positions.
Head Restraints:
Active head restraints for front seats.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with CD player, radio, navigation, and climate control interface.
Audio System:
Bose surround sound system optional.
Cruise Control:
Distronic (optional adaptive cruise control).
Parking Assist:
Parking sensors (front and rear), optional rearview camera.
Lighting:
Bi-Xenon headlights with automatic leveling and cleaning system, adaptive cornering lights (optional).
Phone Integration:
Integrated Bluetooth hands-free communication system (Tele Aid and Tele Aid notification system).
Seats:
Multi-contour front seats with heating, ventilation, and memory functions. Rear climate control and power reclining seats available.
Major Service A:
Approx. 10,000 miles or 12 months (includes oil change, filter replacement, inspection).
Major Service B:
Approx. 20,000 miles or 24 months (includes Service A items plus additional checks and replacements).
Transmission Service:
Recommended every 50,000-60,000 miles or as per vehicle's flexible service system, including filter and fluid replacement.
Abc Fluid Service:
Recommended every 30,000-40,000 miles (fluid flush and filter replacement).
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or 326.0), typically a silicate-free, blue color mixture.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0 specification)
Common Issues Abc:
ABC system leaks (struts, lines), ABC pump failure, ABC accumulator failure, ABC control module issues. Requires specialized knowledge for repair.
Common Issues Sbc:
SBC system faults (requiring replacement of the SBC unit), brake pressure sensor issues.
Common Issues Electronics:
Various electronic module failures, CAN bus communication errors, COMAND system issues, seat control module problems.
Common Issues Ignition:
Ignition coil failures, spark plug wear (due to dual plugs).
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety in premium automobiles.
W220 Generation:
The W220 S-Class (1998-2005) represented a significant departure from its W140 predecessor, focusing on reduced weight, increased agility, and advanced electronic systems. The 2003 model year saw updates to technology and refinement.
Manufacturing Locations:
Sindelfingen, Germany.
