Suspension (AIRMATIC, Active Body Control), steering system (Sensotronic, hydraulic), braking system (ABS, ESP, SBC - if applicable earlier models but standard features), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instruments, infotainment system (COMAND), navigation, climate control, seat adjustments, power windows, mirrors, door locks, Keyless-Go.
Bodywork:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, ISOFIX, ADAPTIVE BRAKE, ESP, ABS, DISTRONIC PLUS, PARKTRONIC, LANE KEEPING ASSIST, BLIND SPOT ASSIST, NIGHT VIEW ASSIST.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad/rotor replacement, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, diagnostic checks.
Standard PRE-SAFE®; optional DISTRONIC PLUS, PARKTRONIC, rearview camera, KEYLESS-GO.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Convenience
Convenience Features:
Power adjustable front and rear seats with memory, heated and ventilated seats, multi-zone climate control, power sunroof, power trunk closer.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine type).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles), transmission fluid (e.g., 40,000-60,000 miles or per severe service schedule), coolant, brake fluid.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
Mobil 1 Formula M 5W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC transmissions).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0).
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Glysantin G48 or equivalent - typically a blue/green silicate-containing coolant).
Known Issues
Common Issues M272 M273:
Intake manifold flap runner failures, balance shaft wear (on M272s with earlier production dates), oil cooler leaks, O-ring failures on various engine components.
Common Issues Electronics:
COMAND system glitches, Airmatic suspension compressor failures, SAM module issues, CAN bus communication errors.
Common Issues General:
Window regulator failures, door lock actuator issues, HVAC blower motor resistors.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer History:
Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, is renowned for its luxury vehicles, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive safety and technology.
Model Evolution
W221 Introduction:
The W221 S-Class debuted in 2005 as a successor to the W220, bringing a bolder design, more advanced technology, and improved safety features.
W221 Design Changes:
More muscular styling, prominent grille, LED lighting elements, significantly updated interior with COMAND infotainment system.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Sindelfingen, Germany.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Awards:
Frequently recognized for luxury, comfort, and technological innovation by automotive publications (e.g., Car and Driver, MotorTrend - though specific 2007 awards should be verified).
Ratings
Reliability Ratings:
Varies by specific model year and maintenance history; typically average to above average for luxury vehicles of its era, with potential for higher maintenance costs.
Certifications
Safety Certifications:
Meets or exceeds all relevant national and international safety standards.