🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S500

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

W220

Engine Code:

M113.960

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz S500 (W220) represented the pinnacle of luxury, technology, and comfort in its segment, directly competing with other high-end sedans like the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS.

Competitive Analysis:

The W220 S-Class distinguished itself with advanced electronic systems, ride comfort via Active Body Control (ABC), and a refined powertrain, setting a benchmark for automotive engineering.

Key Features:

The 2004 model year saw further refinements, building on the W220's already extensive feature set, including improved COMAND infotainment and enhanced safety systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All mechanical, electrical, body, and diagnostic systems for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz S500.

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive manufacturer service manuals).

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely digital download, e.g., PDF or proprietary viewer).

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain (Transmission, Drive Axles), Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Climate Control (A/C, HVAC), Electrical System (ECU, CAN Bus, Lighting, Power Accessories), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, SRS (Airbag) System, Navigation System, Infotainment System, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and procedures.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled service, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, repair procedures, wiring diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, component testing, software updates and diagnostics.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component-level repairs. Includes factory-level diagnostic procedures and specifications.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, lighting, engine control, ABS, SRS, and comfort features.

Diagnostic Codes Coverage:

Comprehensive listing and explanation of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for all ECUs, along with guided diagnostic procedures.

Bodywork Coverage:

Front and rear bumper systems, fenders, hood, trunk lid, doors, body panels, glass, sunroof, interior trim, and cosmetic components. Includes repair and adjustment procedures.

Climate Control Coverage:

Detailed procedures for HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, climate control module, and diagnostic troubleshooting.

Lighting Coverage:

Headlights (bi-xenon optional), taillights, interior lighting, fog lamps, and all exterior lighting circuits. Includes bulb replacement and troubleshooting.

Advanced Diagnostics Coverage:

Specific instructions for using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis), interpreting data streams, and performing actuator tests.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (likely executable or PDF bundle).

Print Quality:

N/A (Software-based, but content quality is equivalent to high-resolution factory documentation).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Content Organization:

Organized by system and component, with clear indexing, search functionality, and cross-referencing for ease of use by technicians and DIY enthusiasts.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine:

5.0L V8 SOHC (M113.960)

Horsepower:

302 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

339 lb-ft @ 2700-4250 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic fuel injection (Sequential, multi-point)

Bore X Stroke:

3.62 x 3.15 inches (92.0 x 80.3 mm)

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Engine Management:

ME 2.8 (Motronic)

Emission Control:

Dual catalytic converters, O2 sensors, EGR (if applicable)

Valvetrain:

SOHC 3 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic (722.6)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for S500 model

Transmission Features:

TouchShift (manual selection), Comfort/Sport modes, Electronic control module.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.10 (ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

116.3 inches (2954 mm)

Length:

199.1 inches (5057 mm)

Width:

73.1 inches (1857 mm)

Height:

57.7 inches (1466 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4300-4500 lbs (1950-2040 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 5500 lbs (2500 kg)

Trunk Volume:

18.0 cu ft (510 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

5-Star (for 2004 models)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for models equipped with side airbags)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control System (ASR).

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (front and rear), seatbelt pre-tensioners, crumple zones, impact-absorbing steering column, active head restraints (front).

Advanced Safety Features:

Pre-Safe® system (anticipatory occupant protection), tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, featuring a 6.5-inch color display, CD player, AM/FM radio, and optional navigation. Also includes premium audio systems (Bose or Harman Kardon).

Driver Assistance Features:

Distronic (Adaptive Cruise Control - optional), PARKTRONIC (parking sensors - front and rear), rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Connectivity Options:

Voice control system (Linguatronic - optional), hands-free cellular phone integration (optional).

Comfort Technology:

Multi-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats (optional), power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated steering wheel (optional), keyless-go entry and ignition (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Flexible Service System (ASSYST) - typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. The manual will detail specific service indicator reset procedures.

Major Service Interval:

Refer to the manual for specific mileage-based major service intervals (e.g., spark plugs, transmission service, coolant change).

Engine Oil Type:

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

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, e.g., Pentofrost SF)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MB 345.0 (Hydraulic fluid)

Windshield Washer Fluid Type:

Approved windshield washer fluid (e.g., MB-approved concentrate).

Known Issues:

Common issues can include ABC suspension leaks (struts, hydraulic lines), sagging air springs, crank position sensor failures, ignition coil issues, and COMAND system glitches. The manual provides detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for these and other potential problems.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Example: Mann-Filter HU718/5z, Bosch 72130 (verify with VIN for exact fitment).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety, with its S-Class line representing the flagship sedan for decades.

Model Evolution:

The W220 generation (1998-2005) represented a significant shift towards modern design and technology for the S-Class, introducing innovations like Active Body Control (ABC) and Distronic cruise control.

Production Years:

1998-2005 (W220 generation).

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Sindelfingen).

Model Code Breakdown:

W220 signifies the sedan body style for the S-Class. The S500 designation indicates the engine size (5.0 liters).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

The S-Class line consistently received accolades for luxury, safety, and engineering from various automotive publications and organizations throughout its production years, though specific awards for the 2004 S500 may vary.

📄 Vehicle Specifications

Front Brakes:

Ventilated discs

Rear Brakes:

Ventilated discs

Front Suspension:

Multi-link independent suspension with Active Body Control (ABC)

Rear Suspension:

Multi-link independent suspension with Active Body Control (ABC) and self-leveling

Steering Type:

Hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size Examples:

225/55R17, 245/45R18 (verify based on specific trim and options)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112