The Mercedes-Benz W220 S-Class represented the pinnacle of automotive luxury, technology, and comfort in its era, setting benchmarks for the segment.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed directly with other flagship luxury sedans such as the BMW 7 Series (E65/E66), Audi A8 (D2/D3), Lexus LS, and Jaguar XJ.
Key Features
Key Vehicle Features:
Advanced safety features, powerful yet refined engines, sophisticated suspension systems (including optional Active Body Control), luxurious interior appointments, and cutting-edge technology for its time.
Manual Value Proposition
Manual Value:
This technical manual provides the essential, in-depth knowledge required to properly maintain, diagnose, and repair the complex systems of the W220 S-Class, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage:
Comprehensive Technical & Repair Documentation
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
3000+
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Official OEM Technical Service Manual / Repair Manual
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting systems, power accessories, body control modules (BCM), CAN bus communication.
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, occupant sensors, crash management.
Infotainment Systems:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation System), radio, CD changer, navigation, telephone integration, speaker systems.
Procedures Included
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using STAR Diagnosis (XENTRY) system.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, electrical component replacement.
Technical Specifications Inclusion:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for dealership technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Diagnostic Tool Reference:
Information referencing the use of Mercedes-Benz proprietary diagnostic tools like STAR Diagnosis (XENTRY).
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Searchable text within PDF for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital images and clear text, optimized for printing.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Options:
S 320 (3.2L V6), S 350 (3.7L V6), S 430 (4.3L V8), S 500 (5.0L V8), S 55 AMG (5.4L Supercharged V8), S 600 (5.5L/5.8L Twin-Turbo V12), S 63 AMG (6.2L V8 - later models), S 65 AMG (6.0L Twin-Turbo V12).
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) and Drive-by-Wire.
Emission Control
Emission Systems:
Three-way catalytic converters, Oxygen (O2) sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) on some models, Secondary Air Injection (SAI) system.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission (722.6) standard on early models and V6 variants.
Optional
Optional Transmission:
7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC) became standard on most models later in the production run. AMG models featured specialized AMG Speedshift transmissions.
MB Spec 236.10 (or equivalent approved fluids like Shell ATF 134, Mobil ATF 134).
Fluid Capacity
722.6 Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8-9 liters (dry fill), 3-4 liters for torque converter drain and fill.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
116.7 inches (2965 mm)
Length:
198.1 inches (5031 mm)
Width:
73.7 inches (1872 mm)
Height:
57.4 inches (1458 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3,900 - 4,600 lbs (1770 - 2090 kg) depending on engine and options.
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 108 cubic feet (3058 liters)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 17.7 cubic feet (500 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally good, though specific ratings may vary by model year and testing methodology. Frontal and side-impact protection were strong points.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), optional Active Body Control (ABC) for enhanced stability, optional Parktronic parking assist.
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, advanced crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell.
COMAND 2.0, COMAND 2.5, or COMAND APS with navigation, radio, CD changer, and optional TV tuner and voice control.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional Distronic adaptive cruise control, keyless go, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Optional hands-free telephone system with Bluetooth or integrated cellular module.
Lighting
Lighting Technology:
Optional Bi-Xenon headlights with automatic leveling and cornering illumination.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil (e.g., MB Spec 229.5).
Major Service Intervals:
Major service (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant) often recommended around 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 meeting MB Spec 229.5.
Coolant Specification:
MB Spec 325.0 (Antifreeze) or equivalent approved long-life coolant.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0).
Known Issues
Common Issues Abc System:
Hydraulic leaks from hoses and struts, pump failures, sensor failures, fluid leaks due to material degradation (can be costly to repair).
Common Issues Ignition Coils:
Premature failure of ignition coils and spark plug wells, leading to misfires.
Common Issues Sbc System:
Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) pump failure, SBC control module issues, requiring specialized diagnosis and replacement (high cost).
Common Issues Electronics:
Various electronic control unit (ECU) failures, SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) issues, door module failures, window regulator problems, CAN bus communication faults.
Common Issues Cooling System:
Plastic components in the cooling system (e.g., thermostat housing, coolant expansion tank) can become brittle and crack.
Common Issues Trunk Slammer:
Actuator failure for the automatic trunk closing mechanism.
Common Issues Oil Leaks:
Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, oil cooler seals, and rear main crankshaft seal.
Part Numbers
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter HU 718/5y (OEM Mercedes-Benz A0001802609)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mercedes Benz Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, with the S-Class lineage representing the flagship of its sedan offerings for decades.
Model Evolution
W220 Evolution:
The W220 succeeded the W140 S-Class, aiming for a lighter, more aerodynamic, and more technologically advanced vehicle, while also being more fuel-efficient and easier to maneuver. It introduced significant advancements like CAN bus architecture and optional ABC.
Production
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen, Germany.
Sales Figures
Global Sales Estimate:
Over 485,000 units produced worldwide during its lifecycle.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vehicle Awards:
Frequently cited for luxury, comfort, and technological advancements by automotive publications. Often ranked highly in its segment for overall refinement.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Ranking:
Varies by year and specific model, with some years receiving praise for luxury and performance, while others noted reliability concerns due to complex systems.
Certifications
Automotive Certifications:
Mercedes-Benz vehicles adhere to rigorous internal quality and safety standards.
Al seleccionar una opción, se actualiza toda la página.