Mvwright

Attention fellow MBZ Owners:

I'm thinking of purchasing a 2008 S65 with the Renntech ECU Upgrade. Can anyone tell me if the upgrades increase the cost of maintenance for the vehicle? Will it increase the cost of brake repairs or scheduled engine services?

Also, do the upgrades reduce the vehicle's gas mileage below the stated 11/17 mpg?

Thank you for your input.

Mvwright

Triman2008

I don't have a S65, but a S55, with a good amount of mods. As far as maintenacne goes, I havent' had anything out of the ordinary. I am about due for new brake pads, but I'm waiting for EvoSport to come out with their multi-piece rotors. I get better gas mileage on the highway at almost 25mpg. And in all honesty, my car out runs (stays working longer without breaking) than all of my firends who have 600+ hp mustangs and 450+ Grand Prix, yes I said Grand Prix.

I think you should go for it, just one thing on this matter. Renntch is exspensive, look at other companys too. OE Tuning, Euro Charged, and Speedriven are a couple I can think of.

Mvwright

Triman2008, I appreciate the information.

The S65 I'm looking at already has the Renntech upgrades, so it's not an issue as to shopping for the most cost effective.

As to the gas mileage, are you saying the Renntech ECU Upgrade will actually increase the miles per gallon?

Thank you,
Mvwright

Triman2008

I know my car has a Kleemann box tune. On the highway I get almost 25 mpg. My car is rated at about 22 mpg. So yeah, it will help. You have to remember that with all modifications done to a car, it either help get air in or out or more fuel in. With putting more air in, you are increasing the atomization of fuel (within reason) and the burn of the fuel will be faster and more efficient. Thus uping MPG.

Mvwright

Thanks for the information and explanation of how the ECU upgrade can possibly help increase the vehicle's mpg.

Do you find the maintenance and scheduled services cost more than the regular S550 model?

Thank you,
Mvwright

Triman2008

No, they all are expensive.

Welwynnick

I think if you're considering purchasing a 2008 S65 with the Renntech Upgrade, cost of ownership shouldn't be a consideration.

You're starting off with an expensive car whose sole purpose is to turn fuel, rubber and brakes into atmospheric pollutants as fast as possible.

Then you modify it to make it do everything faster.

And because there was no room to fit any more power-producing hardware, you have to remove the engine to change simple things.

It ain't going to be cheap.

Having said that, I found tyres, brakes, servicing and insurance costs on my S600TT to be surprisingly acceptable. Fuel and repairs are another matter.

Eyes open!

Nick

Vabene7

Well said....

DJE55

I have an 07 S65 with the Renntech ECU/TCU upgrade and I haven't seen any increase in maintenance over stock. The car drives and acts just as it would stock. You have to remember it was a 200k car new so any repairs are not going to be cheap but the mods shouldn't effect it either way. I love my Renntech and wouldn't drive the car without it.

Mvwright

I appreciate all of your comments. I understand that buying a S65 is not an inexpensive choice, but I was uncertain if the Renntech upgrades actually added to the maintenance cost of the vehicle or if it lowered the mpg.

To DJE55, I looked at your S65 in your album and it is very similar to the car I am considering. Your input was greatly appreciated.

Thank you all. I appreciate any additional input.

Mvwright

1995E320Cab

You will not be able to stop using the GO peddle, this will cost you more for gas, breaks and rear tires, but you will be doing this and this all day long !!!!

1995E320Cab

You will not be able to stop using the GO peddle, this will cost you more for gas, brakes and rear tires, but you will be doing this and this all day long !!!!

hyperion667

love that!!!!

Mind if I use that???

DJE55

If you don't go with the 08 and want a car that is probably a bit cheaper let me know. I have been toying with putting mine on the market for sale. I haven't done so yet but if someone wanted the car I would let it go. Car has Renntech ECU, TCU, rear spoiler and lowering module with 2 sets of wheels and tires.

Fly by night

I don't see how operating costs would be any different with only a tune.

Welwynnick

Having said how expensive tuned TT's are, we've just come back from a touring holiday in my Eurocharged S600. Once out of traffic and cruising on a long run, it averaged 28 to 33 mpg (UK gallons). For a Lambo-chasing luxo-barge, I'd say that was having your cake and eating it. There are still plenty of financial downsides, but I don't think the tune itself makes the engine less efficient; its just down to the control you have over your right foot.

Nick