Segment:
Full-Size Luxury Sedan
Predecessor:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220)
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Porsche Panamera, Jaguar XJ.
Innovation:
Pioneered technologies like PRE-SAFE®, DISTRONIC PLUS, and advanced driver assistance systems.
Design Philosophy:
Elegant, timeless design with a focus on sophisticated luxury and advanced engineering.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals (M272, M273, M156), engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (7G-TRONIC automatic), drivetrain.
Chassis:
Suspension (AIRMATIC, Active Body Control), steering system (Sensotronic, hydraulic), braking system (ABS, ESP, SBC - if applicable earlier models but standard features), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instruments, infotainment system (COMAND), navigation, climate control, seat adjustments, power windows, mirrors, door locks, Keyless-Go.
Bodywork:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, ISOFIX, ADAPTIVE BRAKE, ESP, ABS, DISTRONIC PLUS, PARKTRONIC, LANE KEEPING ASSIST, BLIND SPOT ASSIST, NIGHT VIEW ASSIST.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad/rotor replacement, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, diagnostic checks.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code diagnosis (using STAR diagnostic tools), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component repair, body panel repair.
Calibration And Adjustment:
Sensor calibration (e.g., steering angle sensor, ride height sensors), door alignment, key programming, control unit programming and adaptation.
Depth:
Complete Factory Level. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complex electronic module diagnostics and complete engine/transmission rebuilds. Essential for dealership-level technicians and serious DIY enthusiasts.
File Type:
Likely PDF; optimized for digital access and searchability.
Searchability:
High (with OCR and indexed content).
Clarity:
High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.
Binding:
N/A (for digital format, but print version would typically be perfect bound or spiral bound).
Paper Quality:
N/A (for digital format, but original manuals often used high-quality, durable paper).
Engine Codes 2007:
M272 (3.5L V6), M273 (5.5L V8), M156 (6.2L V8 - S63 AMG)
Displacement M272:
3498 cc
Horsepower M272:
272 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque M272:
258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm (approx.)
Displacement M273:
5461 cc
Horsepower M273:
382 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque M273:
391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm (approx.)
Displacement M156:
6208 cc
Horsepower M156:
518 hp @ 6800 rpm (approx.)
Torque M156:
479 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Engine Layout:
V6 and V8 configurations
Engine Technology:
All-aluminum construction, DOHC with variable valve timing (VVT).
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Direct Injection (depending on specific variant).
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher).
Length:
Approx. 199.7 inches (5072 mm)
Width:
Approx. 73.7 inches (1872 mm)
Height:
Approx. 58.2 inches (1478 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.7 inches (3040 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg) depending on engine and options.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Likely 5-Star (typical for S-Class models of this era, though specific 2007 ratings may vary).
IIHS Rating:
Likely 'Good' in relevant categories.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS, EBD, ESP, BAS (Brake Assist System), Adaptive Brake Lights, PRE-SAFE® system.
Driver Assistance Packages:
Optional DISTRONIC PLUS (adaptive cruise control), LANE KEEPING ASSIST, BLIND SPOT ASSIST, NIGHT VIEW ASSIST.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags, optional rear side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, Active Head Restraints (NECK-PRO).
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation).
Infotainment Features:
CD/DVD player, AM/FM radio, navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Adas Features:
Standard PRE-SAFE®; optional DISTRONIC PLUS, PARKTRONIC, rearview camera, KEYLESS-GO.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Convenience Features:
Power adjustable front and rear seats with memory, heated and ventilated seats, multi-zone climate control, power sunroof, power trunk closer.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine type).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles), transmission fluid (e.g., 40,000-60,000 miles or per severe service schedule), coolant, brake fluid.
Engine Oil Specification:
Mobil 1 Formula M 5W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC transmissions).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0).
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Glysantin G48 or equivalent - typically a blue/green silicate-containing coolant).
Common Issues M272 M273:
Intake manifold flap runner failures, balance shaft wear (on M272s with earlier production dates), oil cooler leaks, O-ring failures on various engine components.
Common Issues Electronics:
COMAND system glitches, Airmatic suspension compressor failures, SAM module issues, CAN bus communication errors.
Common Issues General:
Window regulator failures, door lock actuator issues, HVAC blower motor resistors.
Manufacturer History:
Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, is renowned for its luxury vehicles, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive safety and technology.
W221 Introduction:
The W221 S-Class debuted in 2005 as a successor to the W220, bringing a bolder design, more advanced technology, and improved safety features.
W221 Design Changes:
More muscular styling, prominent grille, LED lighting elements, significantly updated interior with COMAND infotainment system.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Sindelfingen, Germany.
Automotive Awards:
Frequently recognized for luxury, comfort, and technological innovation by automotive publications (e.g., Car and Driver, MotorTrend - though specific 2007 awards should be verified).
Reliability Ratings:
Varies by specific model year and maintenance history; typically average to above average for luxury vehicles of its era, with potential for higher maintenance costs.
Safety Certifications:
Meets or exceeds all relevant national and international safety standards.