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The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222 S 600 is a flagship luxury sedan that embodies prestige, cutting-edge technology, and high-performance engineering. Equipped with a powerful 6.0L twin-turbocharged V12 engine, the S 600 delivers an unparalleled driving experience, combining smooth acceleration with supreme comfort. However, despite its remarkable engineering, the S 600 is not immune to mechanical and electrical issues.
Luxury vehicles, especially those featuring complex electronic systems and high-performance powertrains, tend to develop certain recurring problems over time. Understanding these potential issues can help owners maintain their vehicle in optimal condition and avoid costly repairs.
This detailed guide covers the most common problems associated with the Mercedes-Benz S 600 W222, their symptoms, causes, and potential solutions.
Mercedes S-Class W222 S 600 Engine and Performance Issues
The heart of the S 600 is its 6.0L V12 twin-turbocharged engine, which delivers immense power and smoothness. However, this complex engine is also susceptible to various issues, particularly related to its high-pressure fuel system, cooling system, and turbochargers.
Turbocharger Failures
The twin-turbo setup in the S 600 significantly boosts performance but also introduces vulnerabilities. Over time, turbocharger components can degrade due to excessive heat, oil contamination, and carbon buildup. Symptoms of turbo failure include loss of power, excessive exhaust smoke (especially blue or white smoke), and a whining or rattling noise from the engine.
If a turbocharger begins to fail, immediate attention is required to prevent further damage to the engine. Regular oil changes using high-quality synthetic oil and proper warm-up/cool-down cycles can prolong turbo life. If failure occurs, replacing both turbos at the same time is recommended to ensure balanced performance.
High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) and Injector Failures
The S 600’s V12 engine relies on high-pressure fuel pumps to deliver precise
amounts of fuel to each cylinder. Over time, these pumps can wear out, leading to reduced fuel pressure, misfires, poor acceleration, and difficulty starting the car. Additionally, fuel injectors can become clogged with carbon deposits, causing rough idling, increased fuel consumption, and hesitation during acceleration.
Regular use of high-quality fuel and periodic injector cleaning can help maintain proper fuel system function. If symptoms persist, replacing the HPFP and faulty injectors is necessary to restore performance.
Oil Leaks and High Oil Consumption
Due to its complex engine design, the S 600 is known for developing oil leaks over time. Common sources of leaks include valve cover gaskets, oil cooler seals, and turbo oil feed lines. Additionally, some owners report excessive oil consumption between service intervals, which can indicate worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
Checking oil levels regularly and addressing leaks early can prevent further engine damage. Using high-quality synthetic oil and adhering to proper maintenance schedules helps minimize excessive oil consumption.
Engine Overheating and Cooling System Failures
The V12 engine in the S 600 generates significant heat, making the cooling system crucial for preventing overheating. However, common cooling system problems include:
Radiator leaks – Caused by aging plastic end tanks or external damage.
Water pump failure – Leads to insufficient coolant circulation and engine overheating.
Thermostat issues – Can become stuck, preventing proper temperature regulation.
Coolant hose deterioration – Can cause leaks and reduce cooling efficiency.
Signs of cooling system failure include rising engine temperatures, coolant loss, and heater performance issues. Regular inspections and timely replacement of coolant system components help prevent major engine damage.
Mercedes S-Class W222 S 600 Transmission Problems
The W222 S 600 is equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-Tronic Plus), which provides smooth and responsive gear shifts. However, several transmission-related issues have been reported by owners.
Gear Shifting Delays and Hesitations
One of the most frequently reported transmission issues is delayed gear engagement, particularly when shifting from park to drive or between lower gears. This can be caused by worn transmission fluid, software glitches, or solenoid malfunctions.
Symptoms include:
Hesitation or jerking during acceleration.
Hard shifts between gears.
Transmission slipping under load.
To address this, regular transmission fluid changes every 60,000 km are recommended. If shifting issues persist, a transmission software update or adaptation reset may be necessary.
Torque Converter Issues
The torque converter in the 7G-Tronic transmission can develop issues over time, leading to a condition known as torque converter shudder. This manifests as vibrations during acceleration, particularly at low speeds.
In many cases, a transmission fluid flush with the correct Mercedes-approved fluid resolves the issue. If the problem persists, torque converter replacement may be required.
Mercedes S-Class W222 S 600 Suspension and Ride Quality Problems
As a luxury flagship, the S 600 is designed to provide a smooth and refined ride. However, suspension-related issues can arise due to the complexity of the AIRMATIC and MAGIC BODY CONTROL systems.
AIRMATIC and MAGIC BODY CONTROL Failures
The AIRMATIC air suspension and MAGIC BODY CONTROL systems adjust ride height and damping to deliver superior comfort. However, common issues include:
Leaking air struts – Causes one side of the car to sag.
Air compressor failure – Leads to slow or failed suspension adjustments.
Faulty height sensors – Causes uneven ride height.
If the car appears to sit lower after being parked or takes longer to raise, a suspension system diagnostic is necessary. Replacing air struts before they fail completely can prevent further damage to the system.
Control Arm and Bushing Wear
Control arms and suspension bushings wear out over time, leading to clunking noises, reduced stability, and increased road vibrations. Replacing worn suspension components improves handling and ride comfort.
Electrical and Infotainment Issues
The S 600 features an advanced electronic architecture, but owners have reported recurring electrical issues affecting the infotainment, lighting, and keyless entry systems.
COMAND System Malfunctions
The COMAND infotainment system is known for freezing, slow response times, and random reboots. Common causes include software glitches, failing control modules, or navigation system errors.
A COMAND system reset or software update often resolves minor issues. If the problem persists, replacing the head unit or control module may be necessary.
Keyless-Go and Start/Stop Failures
Some owners experience problems with the Keyless-Go system, including:
Failure to detect the key fob.
Intermittent start/stop malfunctions.
Central locking issues.
Replacing the key fob battery or reprogramming the key often resolves the problem. If not, diagnosing the keyless entry module is recommended.
Battery Drain Issues
Due to the extensive number of electronic features, the S 600 can experience parasitic battery drain, leading to frequent battery replacements. Causes include:
Malfunctioning control modules staying active.
Excessive standby power consumption from comfort features.
Alternator failure.
A battery test and alternator check can help diagnose the issue. If battery drain persists, performing a parasitic draw test can identify faulty components.
Braking System Problems
The Mercedes-Benz S 600 is equipped with a high-performance braking system designed to provide exceptional stopping power. However, due to the car’s weight and the complexity of its braking components, certain issues can arise over time.
Premature Brake Wear
One of the most common complaints among S 600 owners is the premature wear of brake pads and rotors. The vehicle’s powerful V12 engine and substantial curb weight put immense pressure on the braking system, causing the pads and rotors to wear out faster than expected.
Signs of excessive brake wear include:
Squealing or grinding noises when braking.
Increased stopping distance and reduced braking efficiency.
Vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel when braking.
To prevent premature wear, it is recommended to use high-performance brake pads designed for heavy luxury sedans and avoid aggressive braking whenever possible.
Brake System Warning Messages
Some S 600 owners report frequent brake system warning messages on the dashboard, which can be caused by faulty brake sensors, low brake fluid levels, or problems with the electronic braking control unit. In some cases, a software update or sensor replacement can resolve the issue. If a brake warning light appears, it is crucial to have the system checked immediately to ensure safe operation.
Mercedes S-Class W222 S 600 Interior Wear and Comfort Issues
The S 600 is renowned for its luxurious interior, featuring premium leather upholstery, advanced climate control, and cutting-edge technology. However, certain interior components may develop issues over time.
Seat Bolster and Leather Wear
Despite the high-quality materials used in the S 600’s interior, the leather on the seats—especially the driver’s seat—can show signs of wear after years of use. The seat bolsters, which provide lateral support, are particularly prone to cracking, wrinkling, or fading.
To maintain the leather’s appearance, regular cleaning and conditioning with high-quality leather care products are recommended. For severe wear, professional reupholstering may be necessary.
Air Conditioning and Climate Control Malfunctions
Some owners report issues with the climate control system, including weak airflow, inconsistent cabin temperatures, and failure of the air conditioning system. Common causes include:
Clogged cabin air filters – Reducing airflow efficiency.
Faulty HVAC control modules – Causing temperature inconsistencies.
Refrigerant leaks – Leading to AC failure.
Regular servicing of the climate control system, including filter replacement and refrigerant top-ups, can prevent these issues.
Infotainment and Ambient Lighting Glitches
The S 600 features an advanced COMAND infotainment system with ambient lighting customization. However, owners have reported occasional glitches such as:
Freezing or slow response times in the COMAND system.
Malfunctioning ambient lighting or flickering LED strips.
Navigation errors or blank screens.
A system reset or software update often resolves minor infotainment issues, but persistent failures may require component replacements.
Mercedes S-Class W222 S 600 Exhaust System and Emission Control Issues
The twin-turbocharged V12 engine in the S 600 produces significant exhaust emissions, requiring an advanced emission control system. However, certain components, such as the catalytic converters and oxygen sensors, are prone to failure.
Catalytic Converter Clogging
The catalytic converters play a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions. Over time, they can become clogged due to excessive carbon buildup, leading to symptoms such as:
Reduced engine performance and sluggish acceleration.
Check engine light activation.
A strong sulfur-like smell from the exhaust.
If a catalytic converter becomes clogged, it may need to be cleaned or replaced to restore proper engine function.
Oxygen Sensor Failures
Oxygen sensors monitor the air-fuel ratio in the exhaust gases to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. A failing oxygen sensor can lead to poor fuel economy, increased emissions, and engine hesitation.
Replacing faulty oxygen sensors promptly can improve engine performance and prevent further damage to the emission system.
Long-Term Maintenance and Ownership Considerations
Owning a Mercedes-Benz S 600 requires dedication to regular maintenance and proactive repairs. The complexity of the V12 engine, suspension system, and electronic components means that neglecting routine service can lead to costly repairs.
Regular Maintenance is Crucial
To keep the S 600 in peak condition, the following maintenance schedule should be followed:
Oil changes every 8,000–10,000 km with high-quality synthetic oil.
Transmission fluid changes every 60,000 km to prevent shifting issues.
Coolant system inspections to detect leaks and overheating risks.
Brake pad and rotor replacements as needed to maintain stopping power.
Suspension system checks to identify air leaks or compressor failures.
Software Updates and Recalls
Mercedes-Benz frequently releases software updates to fix bugs in the transmission, infotainment system, and electronic control units. Ensuring that your vehicle is updated with the latest software can resolve many minor issues. Additionally, checking for recalls and service bulletins can help address factory defects before they become major problems.
High Repair Costs and Parts Availability
One of the challenges of owning a Mercedes-Benz S 600 is the high cost of repairs. Due to the V12 engine’s complexity and limited production, parts can be expensive and may take time to source. Owners should be prepared for higher-than-average maintenance costs compared to other S-Class models.
To minimize expenses, working with an independent Mercedes-Benz specialist rather than a dealership can often result in lower labor costs and access to quality aftermarket parts.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class W222 S 600 is a masterpiece of engineering, offering unparalleled luxury, power, and refinement. However, like any high-performance vehicle, it has its share of common problems.
From engine and transmission issues to electrical glitches and suspension failures, staying ahead of potential problems through proactive maintenance is essential. Understanding these common issues allows S 600 owners to address them early, ensuring their vehicle remains reliable and enjoyable to drive.
For expert Mercedes-Benz servicing and repairs, visit European Auto Pro 253 Goodwood Road, Kings Park, 5034 South Australia. Our team specializes in diagnosing and resolving issues specific to the S 600, helping owners maintain their vehicle’s performance and luxury for years to come.