Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | 15 | −41% | 4 | Electrical | Good |
| 2003 | 28 | 1.7× | 2 | Suspension | Caution |
| 2002 | 48 | 2.7× | 2 | Suspension | Avoid |
| 2001 | 36 | 1.9× | 5 | Electrical | Caution |
| 2000 | 81 | 3.9× | 5 | Electrical | Avoid |
| 1999 | 9 | −67% | — | Airbag | Good |
| 1996 | 6 | −93% | 1 | Engine | Good |
| 1995 | 27 | −81% | — | Electrical | Good |
* Complaints compared with the median S Class year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Mercedes-Benz S Class problems
Latest Mercedes-Benz S Class recalls
Electrical system
Mercedes-Benz is recalling my 2006-2008 m-class, r-class, my 2005-2009 slk-class, my 2005-2008 c-class, my 2003-2004 and 2006-2008 clk-class, my 2003-2008 e-class, my 2004 and 2008 cl-class, my 2008 cls-class, my 2004 and 2007-2008 s-class, my 2003 g-class, and my 2003-2004, 2006 and 2009 sl-class vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will recode the scn free of charge. The recall began on August 30, 2008. Owners May contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Engine and engine cooling
On certain vehicles, corrosion May occur in the inner steel portions of the active body control's (abc) high pressure distribution hose due to extensive exposure to humidity causing deterioration of the hose.
Remedy: Dealers will install new corrosion resistant abc high pressure distribution hose. The recall began on July 2, 2007. Owners May contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Interior lighting
On certain vehicles, the instrument cluster is experiencing electrical malfunctions. The instrument cluster contains gauges and indicators that must be illuminated whenever the vehicle is in operation.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the instrument cluster modules. The recall will be conducted in phases. Phase I was mailed out to approximately 7,500 owners on September 29, 2006.
Latches/locks/linkages › Trunk lid › Lock
On certain vehicles, the trunk lid springs could fail in the closed trunk lid position.
Remedy: Dealers will replace both trunk lid springs. The recall began August 17, 2004. Owners should contact Mercedes- Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Electrical system › Wiring › Fuses and circuit breakers
On certain passenger vehicles, during the production process of the blower motor fuse holder, the size of the electric conductor of the holder May be below appropriate tolerances.
Remedy: Dealers will install new blower motor fuse holders. The recall began during October 2004. Owners should contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Mercedes-Benz S Class should you avoid?
2000, 2002, 2001 and 2003 — these years have the most complaints relative to other S Class years at the same age, led by electrical system problems in the 2000.
What is the best year for the Mercedes-Benz S Class?
1996 has the fewest complaints compared with other S Class years at the same age, followed by 1995 and 1999. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Mercedes-Benz S Class problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the electrical system (98), suspension (56) and lights (33). Electrical complaints peak in the 2000 model year.
How many recalls has the Mercedes-Benz S Class had?
9 recalls across 1995–2004. The model year with the most is 2000. See all Mercedes-Benz S Class recalls by year.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.