"Is the S Serisi S450 reliable, and what should you check?"
The most commonly reported issue when buying a used Mercedes-Benz S-Class S450 2010 (221 / Facelift): Oil leaks from cylinder head plugs and gaskets. Also, Ignition Misfires: Ignition Coils, Injectors and Sensors are frequently reported.
Engines available in this year
Engine varies by trim; verify the engine code on the listing.
M273.922
turbo petrol · S450 · S 450 V8 (340 bg) G-TRONIC
M273.924
turbo petrol · S450 · S 450 V8 (340 bg) 4MATIC G-TRONIC
OM629.911
diesel · S450 · S 450 CDI V8 (320 bg) G-TRONIC
Known issues and risks
Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.
Oil leaks from cylinder head plugs and gaskets
Often reported
A frequently reported issue is oil leaks around plastic cylinder head plugs and valve cover gaskets. Over time, these parts can harden or crack, causing visible leaks and sometimes smoke or a burning oil smell.
Engine Bay
Ignition Misfires: Ignition Coils, Injectors and Sensors
Often reported
Over the years, misfires due to worn ignition coils, faulty spark plugs/injectors, or sensors (e.g., MAF, lambda) are common; this leads to a check engine light, rough idle, and power loss.
Engine Internal
Oil consumption and risk of cylinder damage
Often reported
Many users and technical reports indicate higher than normal oil consumption in high-mileage vehicles; if left unchecked, it can worsen cylinder wall wear or 'cylinder scoring', especially when combined with intake manifold deposits.
Engine Internal
Timing chain and sprocket wear
Often reported
On the M273 V8 engine, the timing chain, tensioners, and sprockets can wear prematurely; this can cause rattling noise, a check engine light, and timing loss.
What to look for when buying a Mercedes-Benz S-Class S450?+
When buying a 2010 S450, check service history, test drive, and engine/transmission warnings. Most commonly reported issues: oil leaks from cylinder head plugs and gaskets; Ignition Misfires: Ignition Coils, Injectors and Sensors; oil consumption and risk of cylinder damage.
What are the chronic problems of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S450?+
Most commonly reported issues: oil leaks from cylinder head plugs and gaskets; Ignition Misfires: Ignition Coils, Injectors and Sensors; oil consumption and risk of cylinder damage.
Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S450 reliable?+
Instead of a simple yes/no, it is better to evaluate the proven pros and cons together. This page lists 4 verified findings.
How does Carbeak collect data?+
The cards on this page are derived from the Difetti fault database records; compatibility of brand, fuel, engine, and generation between the source vehicle and target vehicle is verified. Topics with insufficient evidence are not shown.