considering 2006 S430
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Newbie
Joined: Jan 2020
Posts: 8
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From: Miami Shores, FL
2016 Mercedes S550, 2015 Lexus GS350, 2005 Lexus LS430, 1998 Cadillac Seville STS
considering 2006 S430
Hi all, new member and I'm considering a 2006 S430 with 112k miles. I've never had a MB, just my 2015 and 2005 Lexuses. I figured a w220 might be a place to get my feet wet. I'm aware of the valve body (but it seems theres a few repair services on ebay), as well as EIC, SAM, reed valve over passenger side, airmatic, etc. I'm wondering who has owned a 2006 and how has the 7 speed tranny been in your experience? Thanks for your help.
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 544
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From: Texas
13's550/2000's430/13'gl63/'13's550/10's63
for a couple of thousand more you can find a w221 with a lot of updates to the whole system. the s430 is a great car and easy to repair if you can handle tools. the only problems i have ever had was the airmatic shocks, nothing else. ever. Knock on wood!
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Joined: Sep 2019
Posts: 159
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Mercedes-Benz S430, S500, S600, and E320 CDI
That's true, but then you get into SCN codes with the W221.
Do you live in inclement weather? If so, you might consider a 4Matic W220. All W220 4Matics have the 5-speed, which is known to be solid. I would avoid the 7-speed like the Plague, especially this era. Had a guy with a 2008 C300 with the same 7-speed and his transmission didn't last. Needed a whole new tranny, so he just traded it in and bought a 2016 Audi instead.
Do you live in inclement weather? If so, you might consider a 4Matic W220. All W220 4Matics have the 5-speed, which is known to be solid. I would avoid the 7-speed like the Plague, especially this era. Had a guy with a 2008 C300 with the same 7-speed and his transmission didn't last. Needed a whole new tranny, so he just traded it in and bought a 2016 Audi instead.
