fbracer

Hello folks,
I'm planning to purchase a W221, year range 07-10.
I've ben reading the forum (and another Mb forum which some of the members here are dual members. I posted the same topic there as well) about w220's and common problems with them such as airmatic problems on certain models produced pre 2003. There's a sticky on w220 section bu nothing here.

I would like to find out if there are similar common issues to lookout for, and ways to spot problem cars while shopping for one. In couple of posts I have seen mentions of breaks squeling, a timing chain and/or crankshaft issue, and a transmission problem.
As I have been burned before on my purchase of a Range Rover due to not doing my homework, Trying not to do the same mistake twice.
I would appreciate if any of you could outline the issues and how to spot them on a car for sale in an auction or in a dealer. Im sure if it's a from an authorized dealer I can inquire about the service records and see if they performed any work to rectify the problems or not but I don't know if I can do the same in an auction or a regular dealer.
Thank you.
Oz

Em Bee Lover

The W221 had fewer debut problems than the predecessor W220 at debut, imo. I experienced both platforms.

Issues experienced by me include motor mounts failing at 55k miles, leaking "adapters" in Multicontour Seat option, seat cover (heated seat) failure and "hard" shift issues w/ the seven speed. These were just my issues. I got the vehicle with seven months of calendar warr. time left, but it was slightly over 50,000 miles.

Three things I learned--one, M-B doesn't know your name, as it were, if technically out of factory warranty ("We are not in the business of restoring cars". This was said by a New Jersey based M-B rep when I pled for help to at least cover parts, while well w/in the calendar warr. My mentioning I have driven M-B's since the late '80's didn't so much as get a grunt of recognition).

Two, this forum is invaluable. Posters, on-balance are caring, well informed and honest. They will help you immeasurably.

Three, if out of warranty, find a trusted independent. If you have endless money, then don't bother. But, if you have an out of warr. W221 and don't have unlimited resources to fix your vehicle, then shop around.

Oh, what the heck, here's a fourth. The W221 is a very complex piece of highly sophicated engineering and assembly. To have the luxury and attendant sophistication doesn't come w/o cost. To paraphrase, if ya cannot stand the heat, then stay out of the kitchen.

fbracer

Thanks a lot I agree with your comments. I can stand the heat, actually love Turkish baths, lol.
My point is, better to know what I'm up against rather than being stuck with a problematic car.

I grew up with Mercedeses, and now its my turn to own one

Quadcammer

get a pre purchase inspection from an experience and picky dealer or independent. This is a must, especially for a car nearing the end of warranty.

fbracer

Will do. I notice that you're in Lyndhurst. Do you know anyone in the area?

ES201NJ

I purchased my S550 from Benzel Busch a month ago, right in your back yard. Service was great so far.

I would say drive more then just one. So you can see how each of them drive. Low miles and the newer the year you can afford the better. Just things to consider.......Along with if the car is CPO, extended warranty etc.....Oh, ask for the service record on the car too.

fbracer

Thank you. That place is one block away from me. I'm waiting to hear about a deal. Depending on the outcome I'll decide my budget

ES201NJ

That's cool. Sales was also great. The only thing I keep thinking is I should have just bought the silver S63 and got it over with. I wouldn't have bought all this other stuff, wheels etc....But.... I didn't. So next time.

fbracer

next time

Quadcammer

yes, I like benzel busch for service, but find their used car prices to be a bit high.

Frank Scott is my service advisor at BB, and he's been fantastic.

fbracer

Thanks for the pointers. I will definitely use them once I get the vehicle. They are literally couple of blocks away from me

Nstar

They can offer some great deals on unsold models which are new but the previous model year. Always worth looking into as they are sometimes priced very closely to used vehicles and of course come with a full warranty. Just something to consider.

fbracer

It looks like I will have to go with a 2007 or earlier. Just got word on a deal that didn't go as well as I expected

famous550

Make sure u text drive it at highway speeds, Almost every S class has the shaking and vibration issue.

fbracer

Finally got delivery of my car today
08 Black/Black S550 4Matic. 55K Miles.

famous550

Congrats on the new ride. You'll def enjoy it.

fbracer

Thank you Another NJ member is among you

famous550

Be careful with all the potholes in Jersey and NY, They ate up all my wheels..

fbracer

Thanks... I'm well aware of that

fbracer

Datacard