2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S550 5.5 V8 from Tanzania
Summary:
A real money pit
Faults:
Suspension needed to be replaced at 16,000 miles.
Engine is making a strange knocking noise since 15,000 miles.
Many electrical problems including a malfunction light, which continuously appears on the dashboard.
The steering is making some weird clicking noises.
The ventilation fan has been getting louder lately.
Transmission problems when selecting reverse gear. I need to give the car a bit more of a push on the accelerator when attempting to reverse.
General Comments:
The S-Class is unspeakably one of the most extravagant cars of its class. I originally imported this car from England in 2007, after receiving an excellent deal from an end of the year clearance sale for a demo Mercedes S-Class. Here in Tanzania, given the exclusivity of owning such a fine vehicle, I get stares as I drive it into town.
Unfortunately this car hasn't been as promising as I was expecting it to be. It's been horribly unreliable, and I can't think of a reason to explain why.
The suspension is expected to fall apart at 16,000 miles, given the poor road conditions in Tanzania. As for the electrical and other mechanical faults with this car, it seems far too expensive and problematic to maintain. Either I purchased a lemon or there is a fault with all Mercedes S-Class's of this year.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 11th February, 2013
21st Oct 2010, 09:12
The new S class V6 is not as smooth & as quiet as the V8 & V12. A good way to reduce the internal engine friction is to use an ester based motor oil. The engine will run smoother & be butter smooth. An ester based oil is expensive, but is worth every penny. The best buy is Voltronic fully synthetic, which is 100% made & packed in Germany, and also approved by Mercedes. Stay away from cheap oil from the Far East.
This W221 (S350) is currently the best full size sedan for the money. It is a much more comfortable than its rivals, such as BMW 7 & Audi A8. It is more practical than the Bentley flying spur, and costs only 1/3.
The 2009 facelift version is even more eye catching with the LED headlights.