How Long Do You Plan to Keep Your W222?
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Super Member
Joined: Jan 2009
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From: In The Woods
2019 W222 S560 4Matic/2025 Yukon Denali
How Long Do You Plan to Keep Your W222?
I was wondering what others think and do on this topic.
For me, once I like a car I keep it for a long time, 7+ years.
Are you a trade it up type, or till the wheels fall off type?
For me, once I like a car I keep it for a long time, 7+ years.
Are you a trade it up type, or till the wheels fall off type?
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Joined: Nov 2019
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From: Colorado
2015 S550 4Matic, 2014 ML550
We had our 1991 420SEL for 16 years w/ mileage just shy of 200K. 
The key was having the same, excellent Indy mechanic for all those years.
The key was having the same, excellent Indy mechanic for all those years.
Last edited by C Swenson; Jan 1, 2023 at 09:27 PM. Reason: added the mileage
Member
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 101
Likes: 54
W222 S550 4Matic and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
I bought my 2016 W222 in 2020 and I plan on upgrading to the W223 in 2026. As much as I love my car, I know that when it reaches the ten year mark, it will quickly turn into a money pit.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2019
Posts: 497
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From: Palm Beach, Fl
2016 S550 sport, 2018 GLC300, M3, Zo7, 2021 Sierra Denali
I have bought many new cars and had several bad ones. When the warranty was up, I moved up. But I generally keep cars 6+ years. My 2016 S is a creampuff that was perfectly cared for before I bought it over 3 years now. It is a fantastic car, and will be around for quite sometime. Newer is not always better. A good car that has been reliable is worth investment to keep going. I have moved out of great cars to get new, and spent 3 years at the dealer regretting trading out of my good car. My S550 is sticking around.
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2021
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From: Hong Kong, China
2021 S450 4Matic
Personally, I do not place too much importance to the warranty. Having it is nice but from my experience of the S-Class over various generations, it often does not require much expensive work after the warranty expires. Perhaps I am lucky!?
Anyway, my personal practice is that I would keep the car as long as it does not require major repair/maintenance work, even its warranty has long expired. But, as soon as I smell major work is coming, I would trade it and buy a new one. 7 to 10 years for a S-Class is just about right for me. Interestingly, this almost coincides with the life cycle of each generation of the S-Class.
The longest S-Class I had is a W126, which I kept for 15 years, from 1985 to 2000.
Anyway, my personal practice is that I would keep the car as long as it does not require major repair/maintenance work, even its warranty has long expired. But, as soon as I smell major work is coming, I would trade it and buy a new one. 7 to 10 years for a S-Class is just about right for me. Interestingly, this almost coincides with the life cycle of each generation of the S-Class.
The longest S-Class I had is a W126, which I kept for 15 years, from 1985 to 2000.
Member
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 228
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From: Zürich, Switzerland
S560 Long 4Matic (DE) MY 2018
Mine will be 5 years old on March and I will have had it for 2 years on May.
It's still a bit of a sellers' market out there and I thought about selling it, but I will instead renew the warranty for 2 more years (MSI Plus, provided by the official Mercedes importer here) and then move on, probably to the new SL, if they prove trustworthy enough, or may even consider the W223 options. At that point I will want the newer technology that is already available in the newer generations.
For the most part, it has been trouble free. Then again, I barely put 10-15K km per year on the car, and it tends to be driven via Distronic, so it's not like it's struggling really in a daily commute routine. Should I find no worthy deals then, keeping it for longer will also be an option, even if it lacks free newer stuff. But with these cars, out of warranty ownership can be a risky proposal if not properly taken care of and inspected by a trustworthy mechanic every now and then.
It's still a bit of a sellers' market out there and I thought about selling it, but I will instead renew the warranty for 2 more years (MSI Plus, provided by the official Mercedes importer here) and then move on, probably to the new SL, if they prove trustworthy enough, or may even consider the W223 options. At that point I will want the newer technology that is already available in the newer generations.
For the most part, it has been trouble free. Then again, I barely put 10-15K km per year on the car, and it tends to be driven via Distronic, so it's not like it's struggling really in a daily commute routine. Should I find no worthy deals then, keeping it for longer will also be an option, even if it lacks free newer stuff. But with these cars, out of warranty ownership can be a risky proposal if not properly taken care of and inspected by a trustworthy mechanic every now and then.
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Joined: Nov 2018
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From: Hampshire , UK
2015 S500, 2016 GL63 AMG
In my younger days when I was running just the one car I would buy them at three year old and would keep them for three years. This worked for me for maybe 25 years or so.
However now i am older and running various cars I am in the mind to keep them longer.
I have a 2008 GL420 and bought it 6 years ago ( i think ) , it has cost me a bit over the time I have had it but as it is a long term car then I dont mind that.
Similar with my 2015 model S500 , I bought it as a one owner car nearly 4 years ago from a Mercedes dealer, in that time I have just covered a bit over 20000 miles, it ticks all the boxes for me and as it is the nice V8 engined car in the colour scheme and option list that I love then I can see I will be keeping it for a long time into the future. I do keep it as my "best" car and love it to bits.
However now i am older and running various cars I am in the mind to keep them longer.
I have a 2008 GL420 and bought it 6 years ago ( i think ) , it has cost me a bit over the time I have had it but as it is a long term car then I dont mind that.
Similar with my 2015 model S500 , I bought it as a one owner car nearly 4 years ago from a Mercedes dealer, in that time I have just covered a bit over 20000 miles, it ticks all the boxes for me and as it is the nice V8 engined car in the colour scheme and option list that I love then I can see I will be keeping it for a long time into the future. I do keep it as my "best" car and love it to bits.
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Joined: Jan 2015
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15 S550 4Matic, 86 560SL
Probably 1-2 more years until I get a new daily driver. Would love to keep W222 as a spare car, but I do not believe it is reliable enough to sit for weeks at a time without issue.
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Joined: Aug 2017
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2019 S560, 2015 Honda Civic Hybrid
Interesting question. Since we didn't do any driving trips last year, I only put 4,000 miles on my car. At that rate, it'll continue to be a nice low-miles car for as long as I want to keep it.
I think sometimes about upgrading to a facelift S, like maybe a 2019 or 2020, but my rough calculation is that would cost about $10k per model year. Is it worth $40K to be in 2020 vs. a 2016? And I'm pretty lukewarm about a W223, which would be a far larger incremental investment.
I think sometimes about upgrading to a facelift S, like maybe a 2019 or 2020, but my rough calculation is that would cost about $10k per model year. Is it worth $40K to be in 2020 vs. a 2016? And I'm pretty lukewarm about a W223, which would be a far larger incremental investment.
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Joined: Mar 2022
Posts: 409
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From: Atlanta, GA
2020 S450 4Matic, 2022 GLS450 4Matic, 2015 C300
I got mine in April of this year (with 40,000 miles), I added a MBz extended warranty in December (right before 50,000 miles). I will keep this one too close to 100,000 miles, probably 2 more years and then move on. In the past a car lasts me 2 years at most, I get bored, and I have traded my way up to an S Class. I am concerned that when I start looking, I will be looking at the chip shortage 2022's 
I love the S Class platform, but once mine is 5/6 years old, I will be ready for something else. Most likely a new S Class, or maybe even an EQS if the prices for themselves out. We are ready for one EV in the house, but not two, as I am not convinced of the road trip charing capabilities of the EV network, so for now we have two ICE cars.
I love the S Class platform, but once mine is 5/6 years old, I will be ready for something else. Most likely a new S Class, or maybe even an EQS if the prices for themselves out. We are ready for one EV in the house, but not two, as I am not convinced of the road trip charing capabilities of the EV network, so for now we have two ICE cars.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 304
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2022 AMG GT 53, 2020 Sl450. Did drive 2018 S450
This is the longest I’ve kept any car. Can’t get better than an s class. 5 yrs and counting. Don’t like w223 so maybe I’ll be ready for the w224, if mine lasts that long.
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Joined: Dec 2006
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All Cars Lost To Hurricane Isaac (W124 E420 revived - added 88 Allante 14 S550, 17 S63
I just dropped $22,000US for repairs on my 2014 W222. Because my plan is to keep it (and my 2017) for 2 -3 more years and hope the 224 is more to my liking. Although the w223 S63 has my attention... but the lousy emblem in the grill just frigging kill me..... come on 224
Last edited by kafklatsch; Jan 7, 2023 at 11:07 AM.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 304
Likes: 75
2022 AMG GT 53, 2020 Sl450. Did drive 2018 S450
Im with you
I just dropped $22,000US for repairs on my 2014 W222. Because my plan is to keep it (and my 2017) for 2 -3 more years and hope the 224 is more to my liking. Although the w222 S63 has my attention... but the lousy emblem in the grill just frigging kill me..... come on 224
I just dropped $22,000US for repairs on my 2014 W222. Because my plan is to keep it (and my 2017) for 2 -3 more years and hope the 224 is more to my liking. Although the w222 S63 has my attention... but the lousy emblem in the grill just frigging kill me..... come on 224
$22K on what? Now you’re making me nervous……
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 566
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From: In The Woods
2019 W222 S560 4Matic/2025 Yukon Denali
That's not crazy.
You can spend 25k if you have someone do the work.
On my w220 and w222 I basically became a Benz/Chevy mechanic to keep the rides in top shape.
I diy a lot of stuff, and I recently found a shop that has lifts you can rent. That's a Good send for diy people like me.
For example. Dealer wants $850 (starts at) for a trans oil change.
They drain and replace the pan. No TC drain (holds another 3.5l of fluid).
I did this myself, properly and got 9L out. The right way to drain. Nobody drains half of their engine oil....
For my time (that's my personal cost gain in experience) and the lift it cost me $149 (also had access to a mechanic in case I got jammed, his wife drives a Maybach).
So you can spend that kind of money if you have the work done by others to keep these in top shape.
Also, he rightly and smartly probably bought Benz parts which are not cheap, but some things cannot be replicated in quality or function.
You can spend 25k if you have someone do the work.
On my w220 and w222 I basically became a Benz/Chevy mechanic to keep the rides in top shape.
I diy a lot of stuff, and I recently found a shop that has lifts you can rent. That's a Good send for diy people like me.
For example. Dealer wants $850 (starts at) for a trans oil change.
They drain and replace the pan. No TC drain (holds another 3.5l of fluid).
I did this myself, properly and got 9L out. The right way to drain. Nobody drains half of their engine oil....
For my time (that's my personal cost gain in experience) and the lift it cost me $149 (also had access to a mechanic in case I got jammed, his wife drives a Maybach).
So you can spend that kind of money if you have the work done by others to keep these in top shape.
Also, he rightly and smartly probably bought Benz parts which are not cheap, but some things cannot be replicated in quality or function.
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Joined: Jun 2007
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From: Huntington NY
S560
Probably another 2-3 years. I don't care for the 223 and they have just gone crazy with prices. I may switch around for a Range Rover once things calm down. I can say I have never had a car this long (3.5yrs) and I've never been so content on just keeping it...
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Im with you
I just dropped $22,000US for repairs on my 2014 W222. Because my plan is to keep it (and my 2017) for 2 -3 more years and hope the 224 is more to my liking. Although the w222 S63 has my attention... but the lousy emblem in the grill just frigging kill me..... come on 224
I just dropped $22,000US for repairs on my 2014 W222. Because my plan is to keep it (and my 2017) for 2 -3 more years and hope the 224 is more to my liking. Although the w222 S63 has my attention... but the lousy emblem in the grill just frigging kill me..... come on 224
If you mean the W223 S 63 (by chance) I believe it is possible to retrofit the luxury grille and to get rid of the panamericana grille, if that is what you are talking about (sorry if I understood you incorrectly)
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Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 9,062
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From: Maryland
2024 S580
I would agree $22,000 in work is indeed crazy lol. Thats 20% of the original price of the car. I can't think of what would go wrong all at one time that would cost $22,000...
The W223 prices have gotten crazy. For a new one optioned like mine (not highly optioned) I would be spending $15k or so more than my 222 cost MSRP. Shockingly when you option up a Range Rover they are a much better value...
The W223 prices have gotten crazy. For a new one optioned like mine (not highly optioned) I would be spending $15k or so more than my 222 cost MSRP. Shockingly when you option up a Range Rover they are a much better value...
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Joined: Mar 2019
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From: Half Moon Bay, CA
2016 S550e, 2005 Nissan Xterra 4x4, 1984 300ZX
I will drive my 2016 S550e at least another 5-6 years, I bought in April 2016 with 32k on it, but I have 4 cars in garage so the S never sees rain and right now just a tick over 40k on odo. i am trying to decide in April if I want to do an extended warranty but probably will roll the dice and skip it. The 22k scares me that is a ton of $$ to put into a car, but I want a EV replacement that can do 400 miles. I will never buy a Tesla so i need to see solid options for fast charging out there, so hopefully EQS version 2.0 will bring that.
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 1,936
Likes: 349
From: Huntington NY
S560
Yes, plus when most of us purchased W222's they had a steep discount, even the second year after coming out. My 2015 was roughly $15k off sticker new and my 2019 was $21k off sticker. Exactly as you said - now they are still asking close to sticker for a similar car that has an MSRP easily $15-20kk more for similar options. When I look at the RR I see a somewhat higher price but a huge leap for the vehicle. I actually want to own it- it is lustful. The 223 is the opposite, it disappears amongst Camrys...
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 437
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All Cars Lost To Hurricane Isaac (W124 E420 revived - added 88 Allante 14 S550, 17 S63
22k covered...
oil leak at front chain covers
oil filter housing leak
Water pump weep R/R
Chain tensioners ( 1 - 2 second rattle when cold at startup)
transmission service
Air shocks
Front suspension parts
new headlight ( moisture)...ironically the spanking new had drops first morning... none since
All hoses
alignment
i think im leaving something out....ill check the paperwork
but it was a choice.... i just decided to keep vs trade
i couldnt kick the can down the road in good conscience....
its really a dreamie ride again... and physically looked new anyway
Couple that to my dislike of the 223..... first time a newer model S intro had this effect on my eye.
i dislike it enough to put my money where my mouth is
oil leak at front chain covers
oil filter housing leak
Water pump weep R/R
Chain tensioners ( 1 - 2 second rattle when cold at startup)
transmission service
Air shocks
Front suspension parts
new headlight ( moisture)...ironically the spanking new had drops first morning... none since
All hoses
alignment
i think im leaving something out....ill check the paperwork
but it was a choice.... i just decided to keep vs trade
i couldnt kick the can down the road in good conscience....
its really a dreamie ride again... and physically looked new anyway
Couple that to my dislike of the 223..... first time a newer model S intro had this effect on my eye.
i dislike it enough to put my money where my mouth is
Last edited by kafklatsch; Jan 5, 2023 at 11:41 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 1,685
Likes: 820
From: Newcastle, WA
2019 S63 4Matic+, 2018 E400 Cabrio, wardens car.
oil leak at front chain covers
oil filter housing leak
Water pump weep R/R
Chain tensioners ( 1 - 2 second rattle when cold at startup)
transmission service
Air shocks
Front suspension parts
new headlight ( moisture)...ironically the spanking new had drops first morning... none since
All hoses
alignment
i think im leaving something out....ill check the paperwork
but it was a choice.... i just decided to keep vs trade
i couldnt kick the can down the road in good conscience....
its really a dreamie ride again... and physically looked new anyway
Couple that to my dislike of the 223..... first time a newer model S intro had this effect on my eye.
i dislike it enough to put my money where my mouth is
oil filter housing leak
Water pump weep R/R
Chain tensioners ( 1 - 2 second rattle when cold at startup)
transmission service
Air shocks
Front suspension parts
new headlight ( moisture)...ironically the spanking new had drops first morning... none since
All hoses
alignment
i think im leaving something out....ill check the paperwork
but it was a choice.... i just decided to keep vs trade
i couldnt kick the can down the road in good conscience....
its really a dreamie ride again... and physically looked new anyway
Couple that to my dislike of the 223..... first time a newer model S intro had this effect on my eye.
i dislike it enough to put my money where my mouth is
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 9,062
Likes: 4,565
From: Maryland
2024 S580
Yes, plus when most of us purchased W222's they had a steep discount, even the second year after coming out. My 2015 was roughly $15k off sticker new and my 2019 was $21k off sticker. Exactly as you said - now they are still asking close to sticker for a similar car that has an MSRP easily $15-20kk more for similar options. When I look at the RR I see a somewhat higher price but a huge leap for the vehicle. I actually want to own it- it is lustful. The 223 is the opposite, it disappears amongst Camrys...
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 437
Likes: 168
All Cars Lost To Hurricane Isaac (W124 E420 revived - added 88 Allante 14 S550, 17 S63
