Mercedes-Benz S400 Problems by Year
NHTSA has 23 owner complaints and 2 safety recalls on file for the Mercedes-Benz S400, across 4 model years (2010–2013). The 2010 model year has the most complaints (16). The most reported problem area overall is electrical system.
Mercedes-Benz S400 years to avoid? What the complaint data shows
These model years drew at least twice as many complaints as a typical S400 year: 2010. Look at what owners reported before buying one, and check the VIN for open recalls.
Model years with the most complaints
- 2010 S400: 16 complaints, 0 recalls
- 2011 S400: 5 complaints, 2 recalls
- 2013 S400: 1 complaint, 0 recalls
Complaint counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold or how long each year has been on the road, so newer and less popular years naturally have fewer complaints. Use them to spot problem patterns, not as a safety ranking.
Most common Mercedes-Benz S400 problems (all years)
| Problem area | Complaints | Model years | Crashes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 14 | 4 | 0 |
| Engine | 6 | 3 | 0 |
| Fuel/propulsion System | 4 | 2 | 0 |
| Electronic Stability Control (esc) | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| Power Train | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| Suspension | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Equipment | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Hybrid Propulsion System | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Steering | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Wheels | 1 | 1 | 0 |
All Mercedes-Benz S400 model years
| Model year | Complaints | Recalls | Crash rating | Top problem | Compared with other years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 S400 | 1 | 0 | — | Electrical System | |
| 2012 S400 | 1 | 2 | — | Electrical System | |
| 2011 S400 | 5 | 2 | — | Electrical System | |
| 2010 S400 | 16 | 0 | — | Electrical System | Far more complaints than other years |
More from Mercedes-Benz: all Mercedes-Benz models · Mercedes-Benz VIN decoder
Frequently asked questions
Which Mercedes-Benz S400 years should you stay away from?
By NHTSA complaints, 2010 (16) drew at least twice as many complaints as a typical S400 year. Counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold, and newer years have had less time to collect complaints.
What is the biggest problem with the Mercedes-Benz S400?
Electrical System, with 14 complaints across 4 model years.
How many recalls does the Mercedes-Benz S400 have?
2 safety recalls across all model years. Each model year page lists its recalls and fixes.