Recalls
Safety issues the manufacturer must repair for free. A recall means confirm the fix was done, not walk away.
No recalls on record for this model
No safety recalls were found in this dataset. It is still worth entering the exact VIN on NHTSA before purchase, since recalls can be added at any time.
Owner complaints by system
Unverified reports owners filed with NHTSA, grouped by the part of the car. Useful for spotting patterns. Open a group to read recent examples.
Engine & powertrain
9
Most reports here involve fluid leaks. Of these, 1 mention a crash.
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The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz S63. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds, the contact noticed an abnormal gasoline odor. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the fuel filter flange was cracked and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11608727 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Electrical & infotainment
6
Most reports here involve fire.
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The instrument cluster on my 2011 Mercedes-Benz S550 (W221) is locked by a persistent red “Battery Not Charged” warning message. This message appears even though the charging system is working correctly (normal charging voltage, new battery, and new battery sensor installed). Because the cluster is locked, I can no longer: • View or reset tire pressure (TPMS) • Access the digital speed display • Adjust or enable certain lighting functions, including daytime running lights • Adjust seatbelt settings • Turn the blind spot monitor on or off • Control PRE-SAFE braking / related safety systems • Use other instrument cluster menus and driver information displays The problem began after a low-voltage event (battery went dead and the car only partially cranked). Clearing fault codes does not permanently resolve it — the message returns immediately. This is a known software issue on facelift W221 models that requires an instrument cluster software update and SCN coding to fix. The locked cluster prevents access to required safety information and multiple safety-related vehicle functions. The vehicle and components are available for inspection.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11757779 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Steering, suspension & tires
3
Most reports here involve fluid leaks.
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The contact's daughter owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the garage, the contact noticed that the air suspension had collapsed. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that it was a known failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 67,879.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #11657449 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov
Other systems
1
Most reports here involve premature wear.
Source: NHTSA complaint ODI #10715467 · view all complaints for this vehicle at nhtsa.gov