1992 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 500SEL review from North America

The worst problem I've had with two "140" body "S" class vehicles I've owned (the S320 and 500SEL) is the interior section of the AC going bad (very common as I've been told). Basically, there's a condenser section mounted deep inside of the dash that needs replacement in this instance and the job is HUGELY INVASIVE AND EXPENSIVE! When my servicing MBZ dealer showed me my car, with the interior almost completely dismantled to get at this beastly coil, it was about like seeing one of my children on an operating table with his chest open! The procedure runs $4 to $5 grand and there's no way around it if you need AC (if you can't afford to remedy this unfortunate circumstance, you're driving the wrong car bro)!

The other problem I had in common with both cars was the HVAC blower motor going bad (I live in Florida where it's always on). That problem was a thousand bucks a copy.

Finally, both cars gave me trouble from the hydraulic system that closes the doors and trunk lid. That master pump runs about $1500 with parts, labor and programming!

The 140 body 500SEL is a beast in velvet gloves. Despite its weight and largess, the vehicle is very, very fast and agile when properly maintained.

While I own several other expensive luxury vehicles, my 500SEL, dressed black-on-black, with chromed factory rims and very tinted glass, commands some serious attention. Unfortunately, a lot of the attention in this day and age, due to the current age of this vehicle, is from law enforcement. Sadly, these vehicles have aged and depreciated to a point where almost anyone can afford one that looks good despite questionable maintenance and often poor mechanical condition. Quite frankly, as a Caucasion gentleman, I have to roll my window down and smile at interested police officers to shake them off my tail! Oh well it's worth the effort!