Fixing My Beloved S500
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 43
Likes: 0
1999 S500 W140 69K Miles 2013 W221 S550
Fixing My Beloved S500
So as some of you know, I had an issue with the rear SLS hydraulic suspension and had to get it fixed. So apparently this June 10th (coming in 7 days) I'm getting my mercedes fixed with the rubbing joints and filling her up the hydraulic fluid, changing front bumpers and fixing nicks, in the front fender and slight paint chip. And most likely new rims. Said to cost me $10,000 but I'm going to do it anyways. It's true W140 have fell in value but I cant let my baby go. Even though I have a W221 that I love to hell. My S500 vibrating at 75 MPH is KILLING me. Since I normally drive around 80MPH and I'm used to it.
What does everyone think of this? Is it worth it?
What does everyone think of this? Is it worth it?
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 390
Likes: 26
From: USA
Mercedes-Benz 2007 S550, 2012 S550 4-Matic, 2014 S550 (Traded), 2015 GL450
To put it in perspective, $10K is a lot of money to put into a 15 year old vehicle, but I probably dumped $8K in the last two years of owning my W140 S500. The question you have to ask yourself is are you going to love the car 5 or 10 years from now and if something catastophic happens like the engine or transmission failing, are you willing to sink more money into it? MY OPINION, unless it's a limited production Grand Edition or has a rare option such as parktronic or the Siemens navigation system with low mileage, I'd think twice about spending that kind of money. Maybe for now, just fix the hydropneumatic suspension, do the basic maintenance to keep it running for a few years and then re-evaluate if you want to make it pristine again. Just my opinion. If you love it, go for it since it's your money.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 535
Likes: 44
From: Pottstown, PA
'97 S500 Coupe, 2016 AMG S63 Coupe, 2007 Audi Q7
If you want to spend $10k, why don't you search for a "new" W140 with everything you want including rims? I'm sure you could find one cheaper than $10k that would meet your needs. Just my opinion...
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 18
Likes: 3
1991 300sel
I replied prior to this about your creaking. Now that you say it vibrates at this speed tells me it is the lower control arm bushing. The play in the bushing is allowing the wheel to wonder. Even a minuet amount of play will cause this vibration. I hope this helps.
Cheers Paul
Cheers Paul
