🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S 500

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

W221

Market Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz S 500 (W221) represented the pinnacle of luxury, technology, and comfort in its segment, directly competing with models like the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, and Porsche Panamera.

Competitive Analysis:

This generation of the S-Class introduced groundbreaking technologies and a refined driving experience, aiming to redefine luxury automotive standards. Its focus on advanced driver assistance, premium interior materials, and sophisticated design set it apart.

Key Features:

Introduction of the W221 platform, advanced COMAND infotainment system, optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, a suite of active safety features, and a luxurious, ergonomically designed interior.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment System, Driving Aids, Climate Control, Seats and Interior, Exterior Features, Lighting, Wheels and Tires, Vehicle Maintenance, Emergency Procedures, Technical Data, Maintenance Schedule, Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

350-450

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Management, Transmission Operation, Braking System, Suspension System, Climate Control System, Infotainment System (COMAND), Lighting System, Power Accessories (Windows, Seats, Mirrors), Safety Restraint Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Keyless-Go System, Parking Assist System

Procedures Included:

Basic maintenance checks (fluid levels, tire pressure), understanding dashboard indicators and warning lights, operating infotainment and comfort features, proper use of safety systems, roadside assistance information, emergency procedures (tire change, jump starting), basic troubleshooting steps, setting up personal preferences

Technical Depth:

Operator-level information focusing on usage, care, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

File Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear and legible text and illustrations

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for easy information retrieval

Print Quality:

Designed for digital viewing, printable for personal use

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4.7L V8 (M273 E46)

Displacement:

4663 cc

Configuration:

Naturally Aspirated, V8

Bore X Stroke:

92.9 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.7:1

Horsepower:

382 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

391 lb-ft @ 2800-4500 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)

Engine Control Unit:

ME 2.8

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)

Drivetrain:

Optional 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive

Transmission Features:

TouchShift manual shifting, Comfort/Sport modes

📐 Dimensions

Length:

5081 mm (199.9 in)

Width:

1871 mm (73.7 in)

Height:

1473 mm (58.0 in)

Wheelbase:

3035 mm (119.5 in)

Front Headroom:

Approx. 990 mm (39.0 in)

Rear Headroom:

Approx. 980 mm (38.6 in)

Front Legroom:

Approx. 1040 mm (40.9 in)

Rear Legroom:

Approx. 1070 mm (42.1 in)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 510 L (18.0 cu ft)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1850 kg (4079 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2400 kg (5291 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (Tested for previous generation, general safety philosophy applies)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (Tested for previous generation, general safety philosophy applies)

Active Safety Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), BAS (Brake Assist System), TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), DISTRONIC PLUS (optional adaptive cruise control), PARKTRONIC (parking assist), Active Head Restraints

Passive Safety Features:

Dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, front pelvic airbags, dual-stage rear side airbags (optional), pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation System)

Display Size:

7-inch color display

Features:

AM/FM radio, CD player, DVD navigation, Bluetooth connectivity (phone and audio streaming), voice control (optional), auxiliary input.

Driver Assistance Features:

DISTRONIC PLUS (optional), PARKTRONIC, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist (optional), Blind Spot Assist (optional), Night View Assist (optional)

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional telematics services.

Headlights:

Bi-Xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights and Active Curve Illumination (optional)

Keyless Entry Start:

KEYLESS-GO (optional keyless entry and ignition)

Seats:

14-way power adjustable front seats with memory, heated and ventilated seats (optional), dynamic multi-contour seats with massage function (optional)

Climate Control Type:

Multi-zone automatic climate control (THERMOTRONIC)

Suspension Type:

AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) air suspension with adaptive damping

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, as indicated by the 'ASSYST PLUS' service interval indicator. (Consult manual for specific conditions)

Major Service Interval:

Major services (e.g., spark plug replacement, transmission fluid service) are typically scheduled around 50,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts)

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., MB 325.0, typically a silicate-free, long-life antifreeze)

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 (or successor, e.g., ATF 7G-Tronic)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (or MB 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MB 343.0 or MB 345.0 (Hydraulic Fluid)

Known Issues:

Air suspension compressor failure, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) system issues (early models), various electronic module failures, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil cooler seals, potentially clogged catalytic converters.

Oil Filter Part Number:

A2731800009

Air Filter Part Number:

A2730940504

Cabin Filter Part Number:

A2218300218

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for producing luxury vehicles synonymous with engineering excellence, safety, and comfort dating back to the late 19th century.

Model Evolution:

The S-Class, representing the 'Sonderklasse' (Special Class), has been the flagship luxury sedan for Mercedes-Benz since the W116 generation launched in 1972. Each generation has progressively introduced new technologies and refinements.

Production Period:

The W221 generation was produced from 2005 to 2013. The 2006 model year marked the initial introduction of this platform.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Sindelfingen, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Previous Generation Awards:

The W220 generation (predecessor) received numerous awards for luxury and engineering. The W221 continued this trend, often praised for its technological advancements and comfort.

Safety Ratings:

While specific ratings for the 2006 model might vary by region, the W221 platform generally performed well in safety tests due to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to structural integrity and advanced safety features.