Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ
Luxury Features:
ABC suspension, COMAND infotainment, advanced climate control, premium interior materials.
Technology Focus:
Emphasis on innovative chassis and electronic systems for its era.
Engine:
M113 V8 4.3L Engine (Naturally Aspirated)
Transmission:
5G-Tronic Automatic Transmission (722.6)
Suspension:
ABC (Active Body Control) Suspension System
Brakes:
ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) on some variants
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, ECU diagnostics
Comfort Systems:
HVAC, power seats, windows, sunroof, door locks, climate control
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, body repairs
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension repair, brake system service
Calibration:
Sensor calibration, electronic system resets, ABC suspension calibration
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Mercedes-Benz tools
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electronic diagnostics.
Configuration:
4.3L (4266 cc) SOHC 3-valve per cylinder V8
Horsepower:
275 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3,300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.5 Specification (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40)
Coolant:
MB 325.0 Specification (Antifreeze/Coolant)
Length:
196.4 inches (4988 mm)
Width:
73.1 inches (1857 mm)
Height:
57.1 inches (1450 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,900 - 4,100 lbs (1769 - 1860 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 5,000 lbs (2268 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for similar models of the era)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for similar models of the era)
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on package)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters
Comand System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated radio, CD player, navigation, and climate controls.
Premium Audio:
Optional Bose or Harman Kardon sound systems.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
PARKTRONIC parking assistance system (front and rear).
Telematics:
Optional Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid system for emergency assistance.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil meeting MB 229.5 spec.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically at 40,000-60,000 miles, or as specified by the service indicator.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 343.0 Specification (Hydraulic Fluid)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Abc Suspension Leaks:
Common issue with ABC hydraulic lines and accumulators requiring regular inspection and replacement.
Ignition Coils And Spark Plugs:
Premature failure of ignition coils and spark plugs can lead to misfires.
Window Regulator Failure:
Electric window regulators can fail due to plastic component wear.
Drive Shaft Center Bearing:
Wear in the driveshaft center bearing can cause vibrations, especially during acceleration.
Sbc Brake System Failures:
Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) system can experience pump or hydraulic unit failures, often requiring costly replacement.
Manufacturer History:
Mercedes-Benz, renowned for luxury, engineering, and safety since its inception.
W220 Generation:
The W220 generation marked a significant redesign from the W140, focusing on lighter construction, more advanced technology, and improved aerodynamics.
Model Years:
1998-2005 (W220 generation, S430 specifically for 1999-2006 model years in North America).
