2007 S550 Buying Advice
10-20-2014, 10:55 PM
#1
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Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Vancouver BC Canada
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'95 S500 '93 500 SEL
2007 S550 Buying Advice
Greetings!
I have decided to purchase a 2007 S550. The car I am considering has 68,000KM and is listed at $28,000 CND. For the last 10 years I have driven my 1995 S500. It was my first car when I was 16 and so far my only car. It was purchased from a family member so this 550 is my first "real" vehicle purchase.
What are the issues I should watch out for in the 2007 models?
I have heard about the faulty transmission valve body assemblies.
- Is this something MB issued a recall for?
- If so how can I check if this was done? (assuming there is no documentation of this work)
- Is there anything I can do myself at the dealership to inspect the transmission?
The vin is WDDNG71X87A037362. It shows me engine # 30 019668. From what I have heard engines after 30 088,611 are not affected by the balance shaft issue. This would mean I might encounter this problem. Am I correct with this information?
The suspension is also an area of concern for me.
- Is there anything I can do while at the dealership that will assist me in inspecting the suspension?
I plan on taking the car to 2 different MB specialists for a PPI. Does anyone have any tips on getting a PPI done on a 2007 S550? (again this is first for me)
Any information you guys think might help me out with my purcahse would be GREATLY appreciated.
Thank you very much,
Kevin
I have decided to purchase a 2007 S550. The car I am considering has 68,000KM and is listed at $28,000 CND. For the last 10 years I have driven my 1995 S500. It was my first car when I was 16 and so far my only car. It was purchased from a family member so this 550 is my first "real" vehicle purchase.
What are the issues I should watch out for in the 2007 models?
I have heard about the faulty transmission valve body assemblies.
- Is this something MB issued a recall for?
- If so how can I check if this was done? (assuming there is no documentation of this work)
- Is there anything I can do myself at the dealership to inspect the transmission?
The vin is WDDNG71X87A037362. It shows me engine # 30 019668. From what I have heard engines after 30 088,611 are not affected by the balance shaft issue. This would mean I might encounter this problem. Am I correct with this information?
The suspension is also an area of concern for me.
- Is there anything I can do while at the dealership that will assist me in inspecting the suspension?
I plan on taking the car to 2 different MB specialists for a PPI. Does anyone have any tips on getting a PPI done on a 2007 S550? (again this is first for me)
Any information you guys think might help me out with my purcahse would be GREATLY appreciated.
Thank you very much,
Kevin
08-19-2015, 05:07 PM
#3
Member
The 4Matic transfer case is the main problem, lots of info on this online.
Later, MB recommended fluid/filter changes at 40,000 miles.
Plan on some expense for repairs, but that price seems to allow for that.
Later, MB recommended fluid/filter changes at 40,000 miles.
Plan on some expense for repairs, but that price seems to allow for that.
08-21-2015, 11:46 AM
#4
Thanks for the input. I remember being warned about the infamous hairline cracks in the strut towers of the W220 with the airmatic system.
Anything specific about a 07 W221 one should be looking for?
Anything specific about a 07 W221 one should be looking for?
08-21-2015, 03:10 PM
#5
Junior Member
07 S550 owner
As with any pre-owned car, service records are a must. No matter how pretty she is, if she hasn't been looked after she will make you hate her. 
I've had my 07 for a year now and the worst was ABS/ESP from speed sensors and a bad wheel hub. All fixed under an aftermarket warranty I got thru my credit union. Second must is get a warranty! It isn't a matter of if, but when and how much. My warranty has paid for itself twice. I love my car and I drive it like I stole it. She is amazing on the highway and I have 82k miles on her now. Good luck man, you will love the W221.
I've had my 07 for a year now and the worst was ABS/ESP from speed sensors and a bad wheel hub. All fixed under an aftermarket warranty I got thru my credit union. Second must is get a warranty! It isn't a matter of if, but when and how much. My warranty has paid for itself twice. I love my car and I drive it like I stole it. She is amazing on the highway and I have 82k miles on her now. Good luck man, you will love the W221.
