Mercedes-Benz S-Class Complaints

351 consumer complaints on file.

#11734474April 29, 2026
SUSPENSION
Hello as of now there was no accidents just read Reading the Recalls it is very serious I take in the vehicle to the Mercedes Benz dealership 4-29- 26 They did nothing but said they would get in contact with me once they receive the remedy
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11732269April 19, 2026
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN, SERVICE BRAKES
Vehicle: 2022 Mercedes-Benz S580 The vehicle is experiencing a severe and violent drivetrain "jolt" or "push" during gear transitions, specifically when shifting from 5th to 6th gear at cruising speeds. On multiple occasions, the jolt was so forceful that passengers believed the vehicle had been rear-ended by another car. This behavior is unpredictable and creates a significant safety hazard, as it causes a sudden change in vehicle momentum while driving in traffic. The issue has been reported to the authorized dealer (Fields Mercedes Lakeland) multiple times. The dealer kept the vehicle for over 40 cumulative days and performed motor/transmission mount replacements and "software calibrations," yet the violent shifting persists. Additionally, the engine produces an excessive vibration and loud noise during extended operation in high temperatures, which ceases only when the ECO/Auto-stop mode engages. I am concerned that the transmission or torque converter may fail abruptly while at highway speeds, potentially leading to a loss of propulsion or a rear-end collision due to the unexpected deceleration/jolt behavior. The vehicle is suffering from chronic oil consumption issues. The 'Check Engine Oil Level (Add 1 Quart)' message has appeared twice: once on 10/31/2025 and again on 04/17/2026. This is despite the vehicle being exclusively serviced by Mercedes-Benz Lakeland. This recurring engine issue, combined with the violent drivetrain jolts and shifting failures, significantly compromises the vehicle's safety and reliability."
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11731198April 14, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 4Matic. The contact stated that while performing a brake service, the contact became aware that there was fluid leaking underneath the vehicle, coming from the driveshaft. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was shaking while driving due to the failure. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V216000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 77,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11727987March 30, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The doors are designed to open or shut, not a hinged or soft door close. There has been several times when I’ve opened the door and the door slams back on my elbow.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11720070February 24, 2026
EXTERIOR LIGHTING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
False warning message for right taillights/brake lights/signal light in rear lamp.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11719416February 20, 2026
POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I am reporting a recurring transmission/drivability issue with my 2024 Mercedes-Benz S580. The vehicle has been experiencing a harsh, abnormal shift between approximately 3rd and 4th gear at around 25–35 mph during normal acceleration. The shift feels like a sudden jerk or hesitation and does not feel consistent with normal operation. The vehicle has been taken to an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership multiple times for this issue. On a recent visit (February 9, 2026), a drive technician rode along and personally experienced the harsh shifting during a test drive. The dealership later confirmed in writing that the harsh shift was duplicated and documented on the repair order. Despite prior service visits, the problem continues to occur intermittently. It has happened again after the most recent service. In addition to the shifting concern, the vehicle has previously experienced power-related issues and steering/driver-assist warnings. There are not always warning lights before the harsh shift occurs. The vehicle remains available for inspection. Because the shifting happens during normal acceleration at city speeds, it feels unpredictable and concerning from a safety standpoint.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11715449February 4, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560. The contact stated that while parking their vehicle, a burning-leather odor entered the cabin, and they noticed smoke in the cabin. The contact noticed a small fire beneath the driver's seat. The fire was extinguished with nearby snow. At which time the vehicle's engine failed to start despite the vehicle starting. The windshield wipers would turn over; however, systems like the door locks and the windows fail to activate. The fire department was not called. There were no injuries, and no medical attention was needed. The contact called their insurance company, Progressive, which informed them that there was a recall for the same issue regarding their same year, make, and model. The contact checked their VIN and discovered their vehicle was not included in a recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11714612January 30, 2026
STEERING
I loss my electric steering assist!!! Takes 2 gorillas to turn the wheel i was able to stop without crashing into anything
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11712692January 22, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
On multiple occasions, after the vehicle had been parked and not driven for approximately five days or more, the automatic parking brake locked in place and would not release. I attempted standard methods to disengage the brake, including manual release procedures and lightly rocking the vehicle, without success. The only way to release the brake was to apply significant pressure to the accelerator while in reverse, which caused the brake to suddenly unlock. The first incident occurred while the vehicle was parked in my home garage. At the time, my grandson was playing nearby. The sudden release of the brake after applying the accelerator created a dangerous situation and was extremely alarming. A second incident occurred several days later while I was on vacation. In this instance, I made sure no one was near the vehicle before attempting to release the brake. Anticipating the issue, I had my left foot ready to push on the breaks when I accelerated using my right foot which releases the parking. I brought the vehicle to a Mercedes-Benz dealership on January 5, 2026, where the car remained for nearly ten days. The dealership was able to replicate the issue exactly as described. The service advisor also had to apply significant accelerator pressure to release the locked parking brake. A certified Mercedes-Benz technician inspected the vehicle thoroughly, including scanning for fault codes and checking for rust or mechanical issues, but ultimately advised that this behavior was considered “normal operation.” I find this explanation concerning. Having to apply forceful acceleration to release a locked parking brake presents a clear safety risk, particularly in confined spaces such as garages or parking structures, and could easily result in property damage or personal injury
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710828January 14, 2026
STRUCTURE:BODY, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The sunroof shattered suddenly while driving. There was no external impact to the vehicle.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710851January 14, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving down the road I heard a loud explosion that sounded like a gunshot hit my read window. This caused me to jerk the car and almost hit the driving car next to me. I pulled over and realized that my sunroof had suddenly exploded and shattered onto the shade located in the ceiling.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710678January 13, 2026
WHEELS
Three wheels had rim a total of eight cracks that lead to one tire unable to hold air. Loss of air in tire can lead to crash. Mercedes service inspected car after first crack was noticed by Discount Tire when they diagnosed deflation in tire. Mercedes service reported that two additional wheel rims were cracked. Discount Tire subsequently determined a total of eight cracks and took pictures. Mercedes service representative stated that initial OEM wheels on 2021 S Class were weak and frequently failed. Service manager said they have had cracks during test drives from simply riding over a metal plate on the road. Car was bought used with 22k miles and driven only 3k miles by me at time of failure. Car was supposedly 100% inspected and was “certified”. Low air pressure indicator alerted the issue.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11709116January 6, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
Was driving the car at 3:00 P.M. and all of a sudden thr dash display when total black out nothing on the display screen. Speed,fuel,turnning singles nothing total black out. Took it to the dealership to fix as this can and would be a life threathing at loss of life could and can happen in a traffic sistiution
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11708011December 31, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Car was in for recall Dec 7,2025 to Mercedes Benz of Rockville Centre service 110 Graham Avenue Hempstead Ny they are having difficulties with the recall it is now Dec 30, 2025 still not repaired they told me it was a parts problem they ordered parts twice now they are saying it might be a software problem they are not sure they do not know when i will get my vehicle back they dont even know the reason why its not taking the recall
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11705542December 17, 2025
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
While driving on highways using cruise control and adaptive cruise control the vehicle decelerates without driver input. The system also misreads or fails to update speed limit signs causing incorrect cruise speeds and sudden speed changes. This behavior has occurred repeatedly during normal driving conditions and creates a risk of rear end collision from following traffic. The problem has been documented across multiple service visits. A repair attempt was made and I was informed that no repair is currently available. The issue recurred immediately after the repair attempt and remains unresolved. No consistent warning lights are displayed before or during the events. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703501December 7, 2025
SUSPENSION, WHEELS, SERVICE BRAKES
Mercedes-Benz S580 equipped with 21-inch wheels has experienced numerous tire blowouts over the course of ownership — too many to count. The blowouts occurred during normal driving on typical roads. Several blowouts caused rim damage and created a dangerous situation, including moments where I nearly lost control of the vehicle. This appears to be a design defect involving the 21-inch wheel and low-profile tire configuration, which seems structurally inadequate for normal road conditions. The failures are recurring and not due to isolated hazards. Other S580 owners have reported identical issues with repeated blowouts on 21-inch wheels. This presents a serious safety hazard, and a permanent remedy is needed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11698526November 10, 2025
SUSPENSION, SERVICE BRAKES, STEERING
Vehicle had a low tire, vehicle indicated it needed to be driven for recalibration of the sensor(s). Took vehicle for short drive up two lane road. Turned around and headed back to where was staying and upon acceleration the vehicle seemed to have pulled off the road but come to find out it didn't at all go off the right side of the roadway. The vehicle sort of jerked and went to the left, causing me to travel over the opposite lane and into the ditch on opposite side of the road, then when pulling out of the ditch the vehicle flipped and overturned skidding on it's top side along the roadway. There was a vehicle coming, they were able to slow but were still impacted by the car as it traveled on it's roof. The vehicle finally came to a stop. After exiting the vehicle, being able to ensure everyone was ok, it was clear the lower control arm on the driver's side was broken in half and that was what had caused the "jerking" and when it seemed like vehicle initially had gone off the right side of the road when it hadn't at all-it was a mechanical malfunction.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11695355October 24, 2025
SEAT BELTS
We almost got into crash the other day, our 8-year-old kid got our attention that rear seatbelt got very loose and did NOT retract back at all. he almost hit his head. when I asked him if it has been like this he said no, it was tight when I buckled it in. We tried several times to retract it manually with no luck. I checked online and I have seen people complaining about the same thing. we have been lucky we didn't hit the other car then my child will be seriously injured. This is a very serious safety requirement. I hope Mercedes Benz will take this very seriously as well, before others get hurt.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11694946October 22, 2025
SUSPENSION, POWER TRAIN, WHEELS
While driving my 2024 Mercedes-Benz S580, I have experienced multiple serious safety issues affecting both the power train and the wheels/tires. 1.Power Train / Transmission Failure: On two separate occasions at freeway speeds, the vehicle suddenly lost all power and came to a complete stop in the middle of the lane. I could not accelerate, steer to safety, or coast to the shoulder. The car was completely unresponsive while traffic was passing at high speed around me. I repeatedly turned the car off and back on, but it would not move for several minutes. This was extremely dangerous and created a serious risk of a rear-end collision. •The issue has been inspected and documented by Fletcher Jones Motorcars (authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer) but has not been permanently resolved. •No warning lights or messages appeared before the loss of power. •The vehicle remains available for inspection. 2.Wheels / Tires / Suspension Defect: The factory 21-inch AMG V-multispoke wheels with Pirelli MO-spec tires have experienced repeated blowouts and rapid pressure loss—approximately 6 incidents over the past 18 months of me owning this car. These occurred during normal driving and required multiple replacements at Mercedes-Benz dealerships and an independent repair shop. •The problem has been confirmed by Fletcher Jones Motorcars and Doza Garage (independent service center). •The vehicle is available for inspection. •Warning messages such as “Check Tires” and “Tire Malfunction” appeared after pressure loss was already occurring, not beforehand. •Mercedes-Benz has not identified or provided a permanent remedy. Both defects pose severe safety risks to occupants and other drivers. The transmission failures caused complete power loss in live freeway traffic, and the repeated tire malfunctions continue despite multiple replacements. The vehicle remains unsafe to operate, and all related records are available upon request.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11694134October 17, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The fuel pump My car stopped on the highway [XXX] on [XXX] with my children in the car with no warning at all. I was so lucky nobody hit us and it took 20 minutes of trying to start it to get off of the highway to a gas station where it cut off again The dealer said it is a known problem however my vin number was included despite the fact that they know that the 2020 mercedes benz s450 has an issue that should be recalled due to the severity of the situation and safety of the public. Warning lights did not come on until the car totally stopped. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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