Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Positioning Statement:
The 2004 S430 represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's engineering and luxury in its segment, offering advanced technology, supreme comfort, and refined performance.
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (E65/E66), Audi A8 (D3), Lexus LS 430, Cadillac DTS
Signature Features:
Airmatic DC suspension, COMAND infotainment, sophisticated interior materials, advanced safety systems.
Infotainment And Comfort:
COMAND Navigation System, Audio System, Climate Control (Thermotronic), Seat adjustments and memory, Sunroof operation
Driver Controls And Instruments:
Instrument cluster layout and indicators, Steering wheel controls, Cruise control, Wipers and washers, Lighting controls (headlights, fog lights, interior lights)
Locks And Security:
Keyless entry and start (Keyless-Go), Central locking, Anti-theft alarm system, Immobilizer
Safety And Restraints:
Airbag system (SRS), Seat belt operation and pre-tensioners, Child seat anchorages (ISOFIX/LATCH), Active front head restraints (NECK-PRO), Emergency assist functions
Vehicle Operation And Driving:
Starting and stopping the engine, Gear selection (5-speed automatic), Parking brake, Driving aids (ABS, ESP), Fuel recommendations, Tire pressure monitoring
Maintenance And Care:
Engine compartment layout, Fluid checks and refills (oil, coolant, washer fluid), Battery maintenance, Air filter replacement, Wiper blade replacement, Cleaning and care instructions
Customer Assistance And Reporting:
Customer assistance information, Reporting safety defects (U.S. specific)
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels, Tire pressure adjustment, Wiper blade replacement, Bulb replacement (basic access), Cleaning procedures
Troubleshooting Minor Issues:
Understanding warning indicators, Resetting certain systems (e.g., service reminder), Basic electrical system checks (fuse identification)
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level information, focusing on operation, features, and basic maintenance. Not a repair manual for in-depth diagnostics or component replacement.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4.3 Liters (4266 cc)
Horsepower:
275 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3100-4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Premium Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled with thermostatically controlled fan and auxiliary electric fan.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger, typical for model year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (typical for the era and segment)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR)
Airbag System:
Dual front airbags, Front side airbags, Front and rear head protection airbags (window airbags)
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Child Restraint:
ISOFIX/LATCH child seat anchor points
Central Display:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated radio, CD player, optional navigation, and climate control interface.
Audio System:
Standard premium audio system, with optional Bose or Harman Kardon upgrades available.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control. Adaptive Cruise Control (Distronic) was an optional feature.
Parking Assistance:
Parking sensors (front and rear) were standard or optional, often referred to as PARKTRONIC.
Telephony:
Optional integrated hands-free telephony system (often requiring a specific cradle).
Keyless Entry Start:
KEYLESS-GO system allowing keyless entry and engine start/stop.
Automatic Headlights:
Automatic on/off headlamp function.
Major Service A:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months (oil change, filter replacement, general inspection). The manual will specify precise intervals and display service reminders via the instrument cluster (e.g., 'Service A due').
Major Service B:
Typically every 20,000 miles or 24 months (includes Service A items plus additional checks and fluid replacements as needed). The manual will specify 'Service B due'.
Engine Oil:
Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic (MB-Approval 229.5) is a common recommendation. Specific viscosity and approval number are crucial. Capacities: Approx. 8.0-8.5 liters.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 or similar silicate-free, ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 10.0-11.0 liters.
Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.10 Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1 or equivalent). Capacity (drain/refill): Approx. 4.5-5.0 liters. Full flush capacity is higher.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0) is often specified. Should be flushed and replaced every 2 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 Specification Hydraulic Fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent). Consult manual for exact type.
Common Wear Items:
Air suspension components (struts, compressor), ignition coils, spark plugs, valve cover gaskets, mass airflow sensors, drive belts, coolant leaks (especially from plastic components).
Infotainment And Electrical:
COMAND screen issues, CAN bus communication errors, climate control actuator failures, trunk latch problems.
Chassis And Suspension:
Airmatic system leaks, control arm bushings, sway bar links.
Manufacturer Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and safety dating back to the early 20th century.
W220 Generation:
The W220 S-Class, produced from 1998 to 2005, represented a significant shift towards lighter construction, advanced electronics, and a more aerodynamic design compared to its predecessor (W140).
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Germany (Sindelfingen)
