Recalls: Mercedes-Benz W220/V220 S-Class
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Mercedes-Benz W220/V220 S-Class
- In May 2000, a recall was issued for Mercedes-Benz W220/V220 S-Class vehicles due to a fault in the electronic circuitry of the heater blower regulatory which could lead to overheating and subsequent melting of surrounding plastic or insulation material, even when the vehicle is parked, resulting in a smouldering fire (PRA 2000/4342).
- In May 2004, a recall was issued for Mercedes-Benz V220 S 600 models fitted with the V12 petrol engine due to a possible leak from the hydraulic line of the Active Body Control (ABS) system between the pressure supply valve and the front/rear axle distributor unit (PRA 2004/7235).
- In September 2004, a recall was issued for Mercedes-Benz W220/V220 S-Class vehicles since the blower fuse could be subjected to higher than anticipated temperatures when the blower was operating at its maximum setting for extended periods under high ambient comditions (PRA 2004/7250).
- In July 2007, a recall was issued for Mercedes-Benz W220/V220 S-Class vehicles with six and eight cylinder engines produced up to March 2004 due to potential corrosion in the steel braiding of an ABC hydraulic hose as a result of exposure to moisture and heat. This could lead to oil leaks in the vicinity of hot engine components (PRA 2007/9393).
Problems and faults: Mercedes-Benz W220/V220 S-Class
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Mercedes-Benz W220/V220 S 600: M137 oil cooler O-ring leaks
For the M137 engine in the Mercedes-Benz W220/V220 S 600, the oil cooler O-rings were susceptible to failing and causing an oil leak. Since the oil cooler was positioned in the valley between the cylinders, it was necessary to remove the cylinder heads to access and replace the oil cooler.
Mercedes-Benz W220 S 320: M112 V6 crankshaft position sensor
For Mercedes-Benz W220 S 320 models with M112 V6 engines, the engine may run rough or hesitate due to water entering the crankshaft position sensor; if so, the sensor and wiring assembly require replacement.
Problems and faults: Mercedes-Benz W220/V220 S-Class
- The air conditioning may fail to operate if water damages the evaporator-temperature sensor.
- The air-suspension warning light may illuminate due to water entering the electrical connectors and causing corrosion.
- A rough idle, stalling or engine vibration may be due to a defective mass-airflow (MAF) sensor.
- Water may enter the passenger compartment due to the reed valve – which drains water from the air intake – becoming clogged. As such, the reed valve requires regular cleaning.
- After hard or repeated braking, the vehicle may vibrate due to heat distorting the parking-brake drums; if so, the parking brake requires adjustment and new brake shoes need to be fitted.
