🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: S-Class Chassis Code: W221 Model Year: 2008 Codes Internal Model Code: 221.0xx, 221.1xx (depending on body style) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Flagship luxury sedan representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering and comfort for its era. Competitive Analysis Competitors: BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Porsche Panamera (later models) Key Features Design Philosophy: Elegant styling, advanced technology, supreme comfort, and robust performance. Technological Advancements: Distronic Plus (adaptive cruise control), Pre-Safe, Night View Assist, COMAND infotainment system, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Value Proposition Manual Value: Essential resource for owners and independent technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the W221 S-Class, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: North American and European markets Secondary Coverage: Global variations where applicable Page Count Estimated Page Count: 3000+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service and Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF (Downloadable) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain Chassis: Suspension (active and passive), steering, brakes (including ABS/ESP), wheels and tires Body And Exterior: Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, lighting, wipers, exterior trim Interior And Comfort: Seats, HVAC, interior trim, airbags, seatbelts, infotainment systems, comfort features Electrical And Electronics: Batery, charging system, starting system, body control modules (BCM), gateway modules, diagnostic connectors, wiring diagrams, lighting control, power accessories Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, brake inspections Repair: Component removal and installation, major overhauls, component-level repairs Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures Specifications: Torque specifications, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, alignment data Adjustments: Wheel alignment, door adjustments, headlight aiming Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including complex electronic diagnostics and component replacement. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text within PDF for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Quality: High-resolution digital scans ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M272 (3.5L V6), M273 (5.5L V8), OM642 (3.0L V6 Diesel) Performance Engine Displacement: 3.5L, 5.5L, 3.0L (depending on variant) Horsepower Range: 228 hp (diesel) to 382 hp (V8) Torque Range: 317 lb-ft (diesel) to 391 lb-ft (V8) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential injection Engine Management ECU Type: ME (Motronic Engine Control) or similar Mercedes-Benz proprietary ECUs Emissions Emission Standards: Compliant with Euro 4 / Tier 2 Bin 5 emission standards 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 7G-TRONIC (7-speed automatic) Optional All Wheel Drive: 4MATIC (optional on many variants) Features Transmission Modes: Comfort (C), Sport (S), Manual (M) Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid Type: MB 236.14 (or equivalent approved fluid) Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approx. 9-10 liters (dry fill), 7-8 liters (fluid change) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 3035 mm (standard wheelbase) Length: 5079 mm (standard wheelbase) Interior Passenger Volume: Approx. 3000 liters Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1800 kg - 2000 kg (depending on engine and options) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings: 5-Star Frontal and Side Crash Test Ratings (typical for this era and class) Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BAS) Esp: Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Adas: Distronic Plus (Adaptive Cruise Control), Pre-Safe (Collision Prevention System), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Night View Assist. Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags, window airbags, knee airbags (driver) Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with belt tensioners and force limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment System Name: COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Entertainment) Features: Navigation, AM/FM/Weatherband radio, CD/DVD player, MP3 support, Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound (optional). Driver Assistance Adas Suite: Comprehensive suite including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, park assist, etc. Connectivity Bluetooth: Bluetooth hands-free connectivity (often via adapter or integrated) Comfort Features Climate Control: Multi-zone automatic climate control Seats: 14-way power-adjustable front seats with memory, heating, and ventilation (optional) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Flexible, typically up to 15,000 km or 12 months, depending on driving conditions (indicated by ASSYST Plus system). Major Service Interval: Service B typically around 30,000 km or 24 months (includes more extensive checks and replacements). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 synthetic) Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 6.5 - 8.5 liters (depending on engine) Coolant Type: MB 325.0 / 326.0 (Glycol-based, blue or green) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Plus (or MB 331.0) Known Issues Common Concerns: Balance shaft wear on M272/M273 engines, ABC suspension leaks, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) unit issues (earlier models, less prevalent on 2008 but check), ECU failures, Airmatic suspension issues. Preventative Maintenance: Regular fluid changes, filter replacements, and proactive inspection of suspension components are crucial. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage...