"Is the S Serisi S500 reliable, and what should you check?"
The most frequently mentioned issue when buying a used 2011 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 (221 / facelift): Intake manifold / swirl flap problems (air measurement). Oil leaks and high oil consumption are also commonly reported.
Engines available in this year
Engine varies by trim; verify the engine code on the listing.
M278.932
turbo petrol · S500 · S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY (435 bg) G-TRONIC
M273.961
turbo petrol · S500 · S 500 V8 (388 bg) G-TRONIC
M273.968
turbo petrol · S500 · S 500 V8 (388 bg) 4MATIC G-TRONIC
Known issues and risks
Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.
In some revisions of the M273 engine, moving parts in the intake manifold (swirl flaps / flow control valves) are reported to fail or malfunction. This can cause rough running, misfires, and may require manifold replacement.
Engine Bay
Oil leaks and high oil consumption
Often reported
Some M273 engines frequently report oil leaks and consumption, typically due to deterioration of plastic cylinder head plugs, gaskets, and seals over time.
Engine Internal
Camshaft adjusters / VVT sticking (code 0732)
Often reported
Camshaft adjusters (VVT) may stick or deviate from the desired position, causing vibration/judder at idle and fault codes (e.g., 0732 for exhaust camshaft timing on one bank).
Engine Internal
Timing chain / intermediate gear wear
Often reported
In the M273 5.5 V8 engine, premature wear of the intermediate gear and chain stretching is a documented issue. This causes noise, loss of synchronization, and fault codes at around 100,000-150,000 km.
What should I look for when buying a Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500?+
When buying a 2011 S500, check the service history, test drive, and look for engine/transmission warnings. The most commonly reported issues: Intake manifold / swirl flap problems (air measurement); Oil leaks and high oil consumption; Camshaft adjusters / VVT sticking (code 0732).
What are the chronic problems of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500?+
The most commonly reported issues: Intake manifold / swirl flap problems (air measurement); Oil leaks and high oil consumption; Camshaft adjusters / VVT sticking (code 0732).
Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 reliable?+
Rather than a simple yes/no, it's best to weigh 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; the source vehicle is matched to the target vehicle by brand, fuel type, engine, and generation. Topics with insufficient evidence are not shown.