2015 Mercedes-benz S500e problems
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, formerly known as Sonderklasse (German for "special class", abbreviated as "S-Klasse"), is a series of full-sized luxury sedans, limousines and armored sedans produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. The S-Class is the designation for top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz models and was officially introduced in 1972 with the W116, and has remained in use ever since. The S-Class is one of the flagship vehicles for Mercedes-Benz.
The S-Class has debuted many of the company's latest innovations, including drivetrain technologies, interior features, and safety systems (such as the first seatbelt pretensioners). The S-Class has ranked as the world's best-selling luxury sedan. In automotive terms, Sonderklasse refers to "a specially outfitted car." Although used colloquially for decades, following its official application in 1972, six generations of officially named S-Klasse sedans have been produced.
In 1981, the two-door, four-seat S-Class, designated as SEC, was introduced, sharing the petrol V8 engines with its four-door version, W126. After the introduction of a new nomenclature scheme, SEC was simply renamed as S-Class Coupé. For the 1996 model year, the coupé was separated from the S-Class line and named as new CL-Class (in line with other two-door models: CLK, SL, and SLK); however, the CL-Class was reintegrated into the S-Class model line (same with CLK becoming E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet). The first-ever S-Class convertible since 1972, internally named A217, was introduced and became a one-generation model only. After the end of W222 production in 2020, the successors to the C217 coupé and A217 convertible are not planned, citing the low demand for those models and stronger demand for SUV models.
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Common 2015 Mercedes-benz S500e problems
The Mercedes-Benz S500e (or S550e in some markets) is a plug-in hybrid variant of the W222 S-Class, which combines a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 petrol engine with a 114bhp electric motor. While the car offers impressive performance and fuel efficiency, some common problems have been reported by owners.
- Brake Dust and Rust: One of the most common issues reported by owners is the excessive amount of brake dust generated by the S500e, especially in areas with high humidity or salty air. This is due to the regenerative braking system, which uses the electric motor to slow down the vehicle instead of traditional friction brakes. When the car is driven in a way that minimizes brake usage, the brake rotors can develop rust from non-use, leading to copious amounts of brake dust when the brakes are eventually applied.
- Software Issues: Some owners have reported experiencing abrupt transitions between electric and petrol power, as well as inconsistent throttle response and part-throttle acceleration. These issues have been attributed to software problems, which can be resolved with a software update.
- Slow Forward-to-Reverse Transition: Another common complaint is the slow and jerky transition from forward to reverse, which has been compared to early Ferrari F1 transmissions. This can be an inconvenience in certain driving situations, such as parallel parking or maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Limited Electric-Only Range: Although the S500e has an 18-mile electric-only range, this range can be significantly reduced in cold weather or when the car is driven at high speeds. This can lead to increased fuel consumption and reduced overall efficiency, especially for those expecting a purely electric driving experience.
- Charging Infrastructure Limitations: Some owners have reported difficulties finding charging stations, particularly in hotels and underground car parks. This can be an issue for those relying on public charging infrastructure, as availability and compatibility can vary widely.
- Limited Availability: Due to its status as a compliance vehicle, the S500e (or S550e) is not as common as other S-Class models, which can make finding a good example more challenging. This can be especially true for those looking for certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles, as demand may exceed supply in certain regions.
In summary, the Mercedes-Benz S500e offers a unique blend of performance, luxury, and efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues reported by owners, including brake dust, software problems, limited electric-only range, and charging infrastructure limitations. Additionally, the limited availability of this model may make finding a good example more challenging.
Is the 2015 S-Class reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class? The 2015 S-Class has a slightly above-average reliability rating of 3.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
What is the recall on the Mercedes S500?
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2022 EQS450, S500, and S580 vehicles. The communication module software may restrict or disable the emergency call system (eCall). Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
How many miles can a Mercedes S500 last?
Final Thoughts
You can expect a standard Mercedes-Benz S-Class vehicle to survive 150,000-200,000 miles, which means a high mileage point of 150,000 and a good mileage point of around 125,000. These sleek cars will typically break down hard once they reach the end of their lives.
Is Mercedes S-Class high maintenance?
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Maintenance Costs. A Mercedes-Benz S-Class will cost about $12,306 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for luxury sedan models by $345. There is also a 31.57% chance that a S-Class will require a major repair during that time.
Is the 2015 S-Class reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class? The 2015 S-Class has a slightly above-average reliability rating of 3.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
What is the battery life of the S500e?
The S500 easily comes out on top with its battery life of over 24 hours, though. Garmin's Edge 530 is a claimed 20 hours, while the Bolt is around 15 hours.
What is the recall on the Mercedes S500?
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2022 EQS450, S500, and S580 vehicles. The communication module software may restrict or disable the emergency call system (eCall). Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
Is the Mercedes S-Class reliable?
Is the Mercedes S-Class a reliable car? According to WhatCar, the W221 is a robust machine with plenty of high-mileage examples that are still safe on the roads. AutoExpress gives it 4.5 stars out of 5 for reliability, but this can depend on the car's model, year, mileage and how well it has been maintained.
2015 Mercedes-benz S500e complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2015 Mercedes-benz S500e.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2015 Mercedes-benz S500e problems:
'04 s500 known issues/problems - MBWorld.org Forums
May 12, 2011 ... S-Class (W220) - '04 s500 known issues/problems - I was looking for a car for my wife in the low-mid 20's range and saw an '04 s500 with ...
Reliability and Common Problems 2002 S500? | Mercedes-Benz ...
Oct 27, 2008 ... ... car in terms of its A/C system. Still, once you get underway, my MBs have cooled fine. My wife's Lincoln cools more quickly. Warren 2015 S550
Is the 2015 Mercedes Benz S500 coupe worth the buy? : r ...
Aug 21, 2023 ... Depends on the mileage and the servicing history. There are no known faults or design flaws in these cars, but the negligence and owner ...
Known Electrical Problems - 2003 S500 4Matic | Mercedes-Benz ...
Dec 18, 2015 ... Only concern so far is 2 documented rounds of electrical repairs for ignition switch, new key fob, and a new starter. Dealer repair receipts ...
2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
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