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Mercedes Benz S600 Problems

The Mercedes-Benz S600 represents the pinnacle of Mercedes sedan engineering, featuring the prestigious V12 engine. With 190 complaints and no fatalities recorded, the S600 offers performance and luxury reserved for few vehicles. The twin-turbo V12 delivers effortless acceleration, while every possible luxury feature comes standard. Ownership costs match the purchase price ambition, making thorough pre-purchase inspection essential.

190
Total Complaints
12
Total Recalls
16
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2001
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1993 1994 2006

Common Problem Categories

Engine And Engine Cooling 52
Suspension 40
Electrical System 34
Engine 22
Power Train 8

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2017 0 3 0 0 Good
2016 0 4 0 0 Good
2015 0 3 0 0 Good
2012 0 1 0 0 Good
2011 0 1 0 0 Good
2007 18 0 0 4 Below Average
2006 2 0 0 0 Good
2005 8 0 0 0 Average
2004 8 0 0 2 Average
2003 16 0 2 0 Average
2002 24 0 0 2 Below Average
2001 88 0 0 0 Avoid
1997 6 0 0 0 Average
1995 14 0 0 2 Average
1994 4 0 0 4 Good
1993 2 0 0 0 Good

Mercedes Benz S600 Years to Avoid

The 2001 model year shows the highest complaint concentration during the W220 generation, with ABC (Active Body Control) suspension failures, electrical system complexity, and V12-specific issues common concerns. The W220 generation S600 is particularly expensive to maintain and repair. Avoid unless prepared for significant ongoing costs.

Best Mercedes Benz S600 Years

The 1993 model year represents the W140 generation S600, widely considered among the finest automobiles ever built. Mercedes over-engineered the W140 without regard for cost, resulting in exceptional durability. These earlier S600 models, while still expensive to maintain, prove more reliable than later W220 versions.

Frequently Asked Questions