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VIN REPORT

WDDNG8GB6AA2874792010 MERCEDES-BENZ S-ClassS550 4-MATIC

Risk Score
20
MODERATE RISK
out of 100
Clear
No active recalls
33
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
16 yrs
Made in GERMANY
B-
Score: 80/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2010 MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. 33 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.

  • 33 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — above average for this class
20/100
Moderate Risk
1 moderate risk signal detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 1 detected
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
Critical Alerts

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
MERCEDES-BENZ
Model
S-Class
Year
2010
Trim / Series
S550 4-MATIC
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Drive Type
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
8-cyl 5.5L
Doors
4
Manufacturer
MERCEDES-BENZ CARS
Assembly
SINDELFINGEN, GERMANY
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
CQuality55/100
Standard📍 SINDELFINGEN, GERMANY

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety
B-
Score: 80/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety30/30
Complaint History30/30
0/100Clear

✓ No high-risk recall components found

2/100
Basic
1 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control
Forward Collision Warning?Unknown
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High Beam?Unknown
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup Camera?Unknown
Electronic Stability Control?Unknown
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake Support?Unknown
Keyless Ignition?Unknown
Recalls
82/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 5 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~192,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 16 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Chain Tensioner immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 16 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 16 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighDifferential / Transfer Case Fluid
Service interval: 4 yr · Vehicle age: 16 yr · Past due by age
Service Differential / Transfer Case Fluid immediately — already past the 50,000 mi / 4 yr interval
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 16 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 16 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
EST. OVERDUEModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 16 yr · Past due by age
Service Fuel Injectors immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
0CLEAR
No Recall Campaigns Found
NHTSA has no active or historical recalls for this 2010 MERCEDES-BENZ.
Complaints
Electrical
10
Suspension/Wheels
7
Other
1 crash6
Engine/Powertrain
4
Fuel System
2
Steering
2
Safety Systems
1
Body/Structure
1
2013
2
2014
4
2015
3
2016
4
2018
4
2019
3
2020
5
2021
2
2022
3
2025
1
33% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Declining -67%
1
Last 24 months
3
Prior 24 months
PEAKS WINTER (DEC–FEB)

33% of complaints filed in Dec & Oct — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Engine stalling6
Fire/smoke1
Electrical failure1
Steering loss1
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (5)Rain/wet (1)Startup (1)Cold weather (1)
33HIGH VOLUME
1
Crash
ODI #11635510SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN

FUALTY DRIVE SHAFT PROBLEM

ODI #11496110FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2010 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated that after refueling, there was abnormal fuel odor present inside and outside the vehicle. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 110,000. The contact stated that the gas leak was caused by a cracked fuel filter housing. The fuel filter and the fuel pump was replaced. The contact is requesting a full reimbursement of the cost of repairs.

ODI #11493134FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Vehicle garaged in storage for summer. Upon returning strong odor of gasoline was detected. Reluctantly drove to dealership and prognoses was determined that (fuel pump strainer) had malfunction thus soaking the entire rear passenger compartment and seat cushion. Upon investigation Mercedes has had a problem in other C -models and has extended warranties for 15 additional years for this same problem. This vehicle is a S- 550 model. Dealership has denied any responsibility. I think the vehicle is unsafe at ANY SPEED. Never should fuel enter the passenger compartment of any vehicle. Video on file at dealership.

ODI #11482020STEERING,SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Airmatic Suspension sprung a leak and could not be driven safely due to the vehicle getting severely low where the tire and rim tucked into the wheel well. When the airmatic suspension fails the vehicle can get so low that it can scrape the roadway, hit bumps and damage parts under which can dislodge and cause an severe accident or pile up. Requesting a Nationwide Recall on all Mercedes-Benz vehicles equipped with Airmatic Suspension.

ODI #11425745FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMCRASH

UPON REFULING MY AUTOMOBILE FULL I COULD SMELL A STRONG ODOR OF GAS FUMES. EARLIER THAT DAY I HAD AN IMPACT OF MY TIRE OVER A CURB. GAS FUMES COULD BE SMELLED NOT SO MUCH ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE AUTO BUT INSIDE WITHOUT ABATEMENT. UPON INSPECTION BY MERCEDES BENZ OF STOCKTON CA IT WAS DETERMINED A FUEL LEAK WAS PRESENT WITH THE CUSHION THAT SITS ON TOP OF THE FUEL SYSTEM WAS SOILED/STURATED UNDER THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT OF THE CAR. PICTURES TAKEN SUGGEST IT HAD BEEN WAS ONGOING POSSIBLELY FOR YEARS. THEY SUGGESTED HEAT CONTRIBUTED TO THE UNIT-SEAL CORROSION AND ITS SURROUNDINGS. IT IS NOT CLEAR WHY MY RIGHT REAR IMPACT WITH A CURB BROUGHT THIS ALL TO MY ATTENTION. HIGHLY COMBUSTIBLE SITUATION THAT WAS CLEARLY NOT DETECTED WITCH IS NOT COMPLETELY UNDERSTOOD THE SAME DAY I HAVE AN IMPACT TO THE RIGHT REAR TIRE JUMPING A CURB THEN GOING BACK OVER IT TO UNLODGE THE TIRE & ROCKER MOLDING FROM THE CURB & REFUEL I SMELL GAS FUMES. HIGHLY DANGEROUS USING PLASTIC SECURE GAS EXCHANGES ON SOMETHING PEOPLE SIT ON? HAS SIMULARITIES IN OTHER DRIVERS. NOT SURE WHY THAT DAY THE SEAL (PLASTIC) RUPTURED (AT PLASTIC LID)

ODI #11386271ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

POWER ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT MALFUNCTION. CAR WILL NOT CRANK/ NO START. CAR WAS STATIONARY-PARKED.

ODI #11385589FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 MERCEDES-BENZ S550. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON REFUELING THE VEHICLE, A STRONG FUEL ODOR WAS DETECTED IN THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF GEORGETOWN (7401 S IH-35, GEORGETOWN, TX 78626, 512-930-6150) WHERE THE FAILURE WAS DIAGNOSED AS A FUEL LEAK FROM THE FILTER ASSEMBLY UNDER THE REAR SEAT. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE DEALER INFORMED HIM THAT THE UNDERCARRIAGE WAS DAMAGED WHICH LEAD TO THE FUEL LEAK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND A CASE WAS OPENED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 110,000.*DT*JB*DT*JB THE CONSUMER STATED THE REPAIRS WERE MADE AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE.

ODI #11375214ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THE COMPUTER CONTROL UNIT FOR THE HYBRID MOTOR HAS FAILED ON MY AND MANY S400S. THIS CAUSES CAR TO STALL OUT AT STOPLIGHTS OR WHILE DRIVING. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE.

ODI #11362925FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

STRONG GAS ORDERS FROM INTERIOR AFTER FILL UP. STATIONARY, IN MOTION, STOPPED. TO THE POINT OF NAUSEA AND LIGHT HEADEDNESS. 2011 IS ON RECALL LIST FOR GAS PUMP AND SENDER REPLACEMENT, PLUS WARRANTY EXTENSION TO 15 YEARS FOR THIS PROBLEM. THIS NEEDS TO ALSO INCLUDE THE 2010 S400 HYBRIDS VEHICLE HAS ONLY 87,000 MILES ON IT, AND CANNOT BE DRIVEN DUE TO POSSIBLE FUEL INGITION AND THE POSSIBILITY OF A CATASTROPHIC FIRE. PLEASE RESPOND WITH THE UTMOST OF HASTE, LIVES ARE AT STAKE. DEATH BY FIRE IS HORRIFIC.

ODI #11352769ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THE CAR FIRST STARTED TO STOP INTERMITTENTLY WITHOUT ANY WARNING AT ALL AT THE TRAFFIC INTERSECTION, THEN I WAS ABLE TO START IT AGAIN AFTER SHUTTING EVERY THING DOWN. THEN A MONTH LATER, THE SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN BUT THIS TIME I WAS NOT ABLE TO START THE CAR AGAIN. THIS COULD BE A VERY DANGEROUS SAFETY SITUATION IF THE ENGINE SHUTS DOWN WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY. MERCEDES ONLY PROVIDED TEMPORARY SOLUTION BY REPLACING THE CAR HYBRID INVERTER POWER ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT THROUGH A CAMPAIGN BULLETIN 2012080004. THIS BULLETIN APPLIES TO MERCEDES S400, 2010-2012 YEAR MODEL. HOWEVER, THE MAIN PROBLEM STILL REMAINS AND POSES A VERY SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE FOR ALL THE DRIVER AND PASSENGERS. THIS IS NOT AN ISOLATE PROBLEM. ITS A VERY KNOWN PROBLEM FOR LOTS OF OWNERS FOR THOSE MODEL YEARS. MY CONTACT EMAIL ADDRESS IS "[XXX]" SHOULD YOU NEED TO CONTACT ME. PLEASE SEE THE ATTACHMENT FOR THE INVERTER. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *CC *TR

ODI #11307016ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

FIRST THERE WAS NO POWER TO THE CAR SO WE REPLACED THE BATTERY. THEN THE CAR WAS RUNNING AND SHUT OFF ONE DAY AND WOULD NOT RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY WHEN IT WOULD NOT RESTART. WE HAD IT TOWED TO MERCEDES DEALER. THEY ARE STATING IT THE POWER ELECTRONICS MODULE. THERE ARE TWO RECALLS RELATED TO THIS PART BUT WHEN CHECKING THE VIN OURS IS NOT PART OF THEM. THAT IS IMPOSSIBLE. THE MERCEDES DEALER EVEN STATED THERE WERE ISSUES WITH THIS PART THAT'S WHY MERCEDES ONLY MADE THESE CARS FOR TWO YEARS. PLEASE SEE CAMPAIGN NO. 2012080004. *TR

ODI #11287409POWER TRAIN

WHEN COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP, THE HYBRID SYSTEM SHUTS DOWN THE ENGINE AND FAILS TO RESTART. THIS PLACES THE DRIVER, PASSENGER AND OTHERS AT RISK OF COLLISION AS VEHICLE WILL REMAIN STOPPED IN TRAFFIC. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN KNOWN TO MERCEDES-BENZ AS IF IS A FAILURE OF THE POWER ELECTRONICS MODULE. IT HAS BEEN SUBJECT TO TWO SERVICE CAMPAIGNS: 2012880004 NOVEMBER 2012 2015030006 JUNE 2015 HOWEVER IT APPEARS THAT THE DEFECTIVE PART IS REPLACED WITH A SIMILARLY DEFECTIVE PART. FURTHERMORE MERCEDES-BENZ NO LONGER MAKES THIS PART AVAILABLE FOR THIS MODEL WHICH WAS PRODUCED THROUGH 2013. THIS DEFECTIVE PART THIS MODEL AT HIGH RISK FOR THE SAFETY OF ITS OWNERS, PASSENGERS AND OCCUPANTS OF OTHER VEHICLES AS THE VEHICLE IS STOPPED IN THE ROAD. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH THIS VEHICLE AND HAS BEEN EXPERIENCED BY MANY. OF NOTE THERE WERE FEW OF THIS VEHICLE MADE (S400 IS AN EARLY HYBRID MODEL MADE BY MERCEDES-BENZ) SUCH THAT A LOW NUMBER OF REPORTS REPRESENTS A HIGH PERCENTAGE OF THIS MODEL. THE FREQUENCY IF EVENTS CAN BE SEEN IN A SEARCH OF S400 POWER ELECTRONICS MODULE PROBLEMS I HAVE CONTACTED MBUSA WHO STATES THIS IS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE AND THEY HAVE NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE DEFECTIVE PART. THEY HAVE ALSO STATED THAT THEY HAVE NO LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY TO CONTINUE TO PRODUCE PARTS FOR A MODEL THAT ENDED 6 YEARS AGO.

ODI #11286606ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2010 S400 HYBRID WONT START FIRST INSTANCE WAS LESS THAN 24 HOUR OF PURCHASING CAR FROM LOCAL DEALER. LIGHTS ALL ON BUT NO CRANK. STARTED AFTER AND TWO WEEKS LATER IT HAD TO BE TOWED BECAUSE IT COMPLETELY WONT START. MBUSA FORUM CHAT AND SEVERAL SOCIAL MEDIA GROUPS ALL AROUND THE WORLD HAS THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL AND IT COMES DOWN TO AN ELECTRONICS POWER MODULE THAT COST MORE THAN WHAT THE CAR IS WORTH TO REPAIR. PLEASE ADVISE!

ODI #11165054ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I HAVE A 2010 MERCEDES S400 THAT WAS PURCHASED NEW IN NYC AND I WAS PROMISED A 10YR/150K MILE WARRANTY BECAUSE OF A CARB ADOPTION NY AND 10 OTHER STATES WERE INVOLVED IN. MY VEHICLE HAS ONLY 37K MILES AND IS NEVER BEEN CRASHED OR PAINTED. I WENT TO MERCEDES OF MANHATTAN LOCATED ON 770 11TH AVE NYC, NY 10019. MY VEHICLE WAS DENIED THIS WARRANTY COVERAGE THE SERVICE MANAGER STATED BECAUSE IT'S AT HIS DISCRETION TO GRANT THIS OR NOT. I THEN PLEADED WITH HIM AND HE BEGAN TO INSULT ME SAYING MY VEHICLE IS FAR FROM PERFECT AND HE CAN'T GRANT AN ASSISTANCE. I MADE HIM AWARE OF MY WARRANTY INFORMATION I HAD AND HE SAID THERE IS NO NEED BECAUSE HE SEES EVERYTHING I HAVE ON HIS COMPUTER AND MERCEDES'BENZ DOESN'T MAKE MISTAKES. I THEN ASKED FOR A SPECIFIC REASON WHY I'M BEING DENIED AND HE THEN TOLD ME MY VEHICLE WASN'T UP TO DATE ON MAINTENANCE. I SHOWED HIM THE SERVICE RECORDS THAT SHOWED THE VEHICLE WAS UP TO DATE WITH MAINTENANCE AND HIS DEALER EVEN REPORTED IT ON CARFAX. HE THEN SAID HE WILL CALL ME BACK AND THEN REACHED THE CONCLUSION THAT THE 3 SCRATCHES ON MY REAR BUMPER WAS REASON ENOUGH TO DENY ME WARRANTY COVERAGE AND SENT ME A STATEMENT SHOWING IF ANY PART WAS DAMAGED DUE TO MISUSE OR DAMAGE THEN WARRANTY IS VOIDED. I THEN EXPLAINED TO HIM MY SCRATCHES ON THE BUMPER WOULDN'T HAVE ANY AFFECT OR INFLUENCE ON MY VEHICLES HYBRID BATTERY. HE SAID HE HAS THE TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE AND HE CAN DENY ME FOR THAT. I NEED HELP PLZ. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY THE MERCEDES PARTS DEPARTMENT THAT THE HYBRID BATTERY AND INSTALL COULD RANGE IN PRICE OF $32,000.00. MY QUESTION IS WHY DID MERCEDES GIVE CUSTOMERS A 10YR/150K MILE WARRANTY ON A VEHICLE THAT THEY ARE GOING TO NOT ACCEPT. MY VEHICLE IS 8 YEARS OLD BUT WAS ORIGINALLY PURCHASED FOR $100,000.00. I FEEL THIS IS UNFAIR AND THINK I NEED THE ASSISTANCE OF YOUR DEPARTMENT PLEASE.

ODI #11133163FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 MERCEDES-BENZ S63. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT NOTICED A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL IN AND AROUND THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND NOTICED THAT FUEL WAS LEAKING FROM UNDERNEATH THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PLAZA MERCEDES-BENZ (LOCATED AT 11910 OLIVE BLVD, CREVE COEUR, MO 63141, (314) 266-5469) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY AND IT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.

ODI #11129673TIRES

LIONHART LH5 285/25/22 H95 LOAD RATING TIRE DOT NO. PT25MBT5C AFTER SHIPMENT ARRIVED AND EQUIPMENT INSTALLED I NOTICED THAT THE LOAD RATING WAS NOT CORRECT FOR THE SAID VEHICLE. TIRE WILL FAIL, LOAD RATING IS NOT SUFFICIENT . IT ONLY PROVIDES 95 WHEN 102 IS NEEDED. AT THIS TIME NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE, COMPANY (SELLER) STATED THAT ALTHOUGH ITS NOT CORRECT, BUT IT FITS. 2010 MERCEDES BENZ S550 TIRE RATING VIN [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

ODI #11094152AIR BAGS

THE DASHBORD MESSAGE READS THAT THE FRONT SRS MALFUNCTION. THE CAR WAS STATIONARY.

ODI #11090495SUSPENSION

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 MERCEDES-BENZ S550. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN THE NIGHT BEFORE AND PARKED IN THE GARAGE. THE FOLLOWING MORNING, THE PASSENGER SIDE SUSPENSION HAD FALLEN TO THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER (MERCEDES-BENZ OF THE WOODLANDS, 16917 INTERSTATE 45 SOUTH, WOODLAND TEXAS 77385) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUSPENSION HAD TO BE RE-CALIBRATED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 82,000.

ODI #10899798SUSPENSION

WIFE DRIVING 45 MPH ON 4 LANE HWWY RIGHT FRONT OF CAR FALLS DOWN ON TIRE PULLED OFF ROAD SOON AS POSSIBILE RIGHT FRONT AIR STRUT FAILED RUINED TIRE DAMAGED FENDER LUCKLY ONLY 45 MPH NOT 80 MPH ON I-75 INTERSTATE OR 130 MPH ON AUTOBON IN GERMANY OR SOMEBODY COULD HAVE BEEN DEAD

ODI #10891643ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

THE S400 HYBRID HAS A HABIT OF STALLING WHEN IN A STOP POSITION. THIS REQUIRES A COMPLETE RE-START AT A STOP LIGHT OR AFTER HAVING COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. IN ADDITION THE AIR CONDITIONING SHUTS OFF AND DOES NOT COME BACK ON UNTIL YOU STOP FOR A FEW MINUTES AND RE-START THE VEHICLE. THE CAR STALLING IS VERY UN-SAFE. THE CAR STALLS AT A STOP POSITION.

ODI #10872438FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

CAR STALLS CONSTANTLY, LOOSE FUEL CAP WARNING COMES ON, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON. I HAVE REPLACED THE FUEL CAP, CHECKED VEHICLE CODES, BUT CANNOT GET THE ISSUE IDENTIFIED. A VEHICLE STALLING LIKE THIS IS A TREMENDOUS SAFETY HAZARD, AND IT MAY BE POSSIBLE THAT THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH THE FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM IN THIS YEAR MODEL, JUST AS THERE WAS WITH THE 2011-2012 MODELS WHICH RESULTED IN A RECALL. THIS HAPPENS BOTH WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY AND IN MOTION.

ODI #10819818SUSPENSION

MY S550 WHEN DRIVING WOULD SUDDENLY GIVE A MALFUNCTION SIGNAL. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER, SERVICE REPLACED THE 2 FRONT STRUTS. NOW THE CALL WILL GIVE A SIGNAL, RED LETTERS, "DO NOT MOVE CAR" AND THE ENTIRE STRUT SYSTEM WILL STOP WORKING AND THE CAR BODY IS VIRTUALLY SITTING ATOP THE TIRES. THIS AFTER REPLACING THE 2 FRONT STRUTS! THE DEALERSHIP SEEMS TO BE AT A LOSS AND I CAN'T EVEN GET THEM TO RETURN MY CALLS. I DON'T THINK IT IS A STRUT PROBLEM BUT A COMPUTER GLITCH. I DON'T THINK IT WAS NECESSARY TO PAY FOR THE STRUT REPLACEMENT. I WOULD LIKE MY CAR FIXED OR A REFUND.

ODI #10785492ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VEHICLE BEGAN TO CUT COMPLETELY OFF WHEN STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT OR STOP SIGN. IT BEGAN TO TAKE LONGER AND LONGER TO RESTART WHEN TURNED OFF AND ON. EVENTUALLY THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AT ALL. WHEN TAKEN TO THE DEALER, I WAS INFORMED THAT THE POWER CONTROL MODULE WAS BAD AND THE COST TO REPLACE WAS UPWARD OF $11,000. AFTER SPEAKING TO MANY MANAGERS AND MY CAR SITTING AT THE DEALERSHIP FOR NEARLY 30 DAYS, I WAS CALLED AND INFORMED THAT THERE WAS A MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT FOUND IN THE POWER CONTROL MODULES WHICH WAS JUST EXTENDED TO COVER THE 2010 MODEL AND THAT THE MANUFACTURER WAS COVERING THE REPLACEMENT COSTS.

ODI #10781043STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 MERCEDES BENZ S550. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT ON THE STEERING COLUMN FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS AWAITING A DIAGNOSTIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 61,599. UPDATED 01/12/16*LJ UPDATED 04/18/18*JB *TR

ODI #10749166ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

I WAS DRIVING, TRYING TO GET OFF THE HIGHWAY, I TOOK EXIT WHICH IS A 270 DEGREE CIRCLE WITH SHARP TURNS, I AM NOT DRIVING FAST AT ALL BUT THE CAR JUST STALLED WHILE DRIVING, STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND I ALMOST FALL DOWN THE HILL, I ALMOST DIED, THIS PRODUCT HAS SERIOUS QUALITY ISSUES. I WAS DRIVING IN DOWN TOWN MANHATTAN WITH TWO OF MY MOST IMPORTANT CLIENTS, WE WERE GOING TO AN ART AUCTION, THE CAR JUST STALLED WHEN I STOPPED AT RED LIGHT AND WILL NOT RESTART, ME AND MY CLIENTS WERE WEARING 3 PIECE SUITS AND ITS MORE THAN 90 DEGREES OUT, WE WERE SWEATING LIKE CRAZY, I BELIEVE THE CAR'S POOR QUALITY MADE IT TO FAIL WITHOUT ANY SIGNS.

ODI #10640885STEERING,STRUCTURE

MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THIS VEHICLE WHEN SUDDENLY THE STEERING LOCKED UP AND ALMOST CAUSED HER TO CRASH. WE THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE TO HOUSE OF IMPORTS MERCEDES IN BUENA PARK TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. APPARENTLY THE STEERING COLUMN WAS BROKEN AND THEY COULD NOT EXPLAIN HOW IT HAPPEN. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND SEVERAL OTHER PEOPLE HAVE FILE A COMPLAINT AND MERCEDES DENIES THE PROBLEM. THIS IS A SERIOUS ISSUE AND I RECOMMEND A RECALL ON THERE VEHICLES BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED. WE WERE VERY FORTUNATE IT HAPPENED ON A BACK ROAD AND NOT ON FREEWAY...UPDATED 11/06/14*BF UPDATED 7/15/2015*JS

ODI #10615593STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 MERCEDES BENZ S550. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN AND NEARLY CAUSED A CRASH. THE CONTACT WAS ONLY ABLE TO STEER THE VEHICLE AFTER THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WAS NOT PERFORMED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 24,000. ..UPDATED 11/11/14 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHTS, ON THE DASH WHEN THE STEERING WENT OUT. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. UPDATED 12/11/14

ODI #10585468ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT

S400 IS A HYBRID FROM MERCEDES BENZ AND WHEN DRIVEN OVER 40 MILES IN DISTANCE THEN THE AC WILL TURN ON NO MATTER WHAT. WE TRIED TO TURN IT OFF BUT CAN NOT. MB DEALER TOLD US IT IS NORMAL OPERATIONS BUT THIS IS A MAJOR ISSUE AS IN THE WINTER THE AC ALSO TURNS ON. THIS HAS HAPPENED MANY TIMES AND MB DEALER HAS NOT ADDRESSED IT. *JS

ODI #10567353ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

FIRST TROUBLE: ENGINE DID NOT START ON 11/13/2010. THE TROUBLE HAPPENED WITHIN THE FIRST MONTH AFTER DELIVERY. TWO REPAIRMEN ON THE ROAD SERVICE SHOWED AND COULD NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. THIRD REPAIRMAN WHO SAID AS THE NUMBER-ONE REPAIRMAN ON THE ROAD SERVICE FINALLY FIXED THE PROBLEM, TAKING ABOUT 3 HOURS. SECOND TROUBLE: ENGINE DID NOT START ON 9/10/2011. A REPAIRMAN ON THE ROAD SERVICE COULD NOT FIX. SO THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE REPAIR SHOP OF THE DEALER. IT TOOK SEVERAL DAYS TO FIX THERE. THIRD TROUBLE: ENGINE DID NOT START ON 5/29/2013. A REPAIR PERSON ON THE ROAD SERVICE COULD NOT FIX. SO THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE REPAIR SHOP OF THE DEALER. IT TOOK 3 WEEKS TO FIX THERE. WHAT THE SAME TROUBLE HAPPENED THREE TIME IS INDICATIVE FOR THAT THE CAR HAS TROUBLE WITH ENGINE DESIGNS OR SOMETHING OF ENGINEERING DESIGN. WE BELIEVE THAT THE CAR HAS SAFETY PROBLEM.

ODI #10554582STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

PURCHASED A CERTIFIED PREOWNED MERCEDES BENZ S5550 4 MATIC. COMPLETE STEERING FAILURE OCCURRED AN HOUR AFTER PURCHASE (AFTER 20 MILES OF DRIVING). THE CAR'S STEERING WHEEL WAS SPINNING FREELY, AND NO CONTROL OVER THE FRONT WHEELS WAS POSSIBLE WHILE IN MOTION. VEHICLE HAD TO BE RECOVERED BY THE DEALER. *TR

ODI #10553236ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

PURCHASED A MERCEDES BENZ S400 HYBRID LAST YEAR WITH 20,000 MILES DRIVEN. THIS CAR RETAILS NEW FOR $119,000. THE CAR HAS NOW BEEN IN THE SHOP AT EWING MERCEDES BENZ OF PLANO SINCE MAY 2013 OVER 6 TIMES FOR THE SAME ENGINE LIGHT AND CODE. THEY ARE UNABLE TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE AFTER EXTENSIVE TESTING FROM THE DIRECTOR OF SERVICE OVERSIGHT. SINCE THESE REPAIRS MERCEDES BENZ CORPORATE IN GERMANY TOOK THE CAR OFF THE MARKET AND NO LONGER MAKE IT AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE IN THE UNITED STATES. EWING GAVE ME AN APPRAISAL THIS AFTERNOON FOR THE VEHICLE AND IT HAS DROPPED 50% OF ITS VALUE SINCE I PURCHASED IT ON 11/02/2012 BECAUSE THE ABOVE MENTIONS. MERCEDES BENZ OFFERED TO GIVE $2,000.00 FOR THEIR TRADE ASSIST PROGRAM YET I AM UPSIDE DOWN AFTER JUST A YEAR AND THEY NO LONGER OFFER THIS MODEL? SO MUCH FOR GOING GREEN TO SAVE THE PLANET, MYSELF GAS OR BEING EFFICIENT I HAVE NOT EVEN ENJOYED THE LUXURY THIS VEHICLE STATED IT ALLOWED WHEN PURCHASED.. ID LIKE JUSTICE AND THIS TO BE REVIEWED ON A HIGHER LEVEL SO THAT OTHER CONSUMERS DO NO MAKE THE SAME DECISION I DID. FURTHER INFORMATION I HAVE BEEN A CUSTOMER OF EWING FOR OVER 10 YEARS OWNING EVERY MODEL THEY OFFER BESIDES THE CLS AND E CLASS. I HAVE OWNED C CLASS, R CLASS, ML CLASS, CURRENTLY OWN GL CLASS AND S CLASS.. THIS IS THE TYPE OF CUSTOMER APPRECIATION I AM GIFTED AFTER SO MANY LOYAL YEARS AS A CUSTOMER???? *TR

ODI #10388688STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

WHEN STEERING WHEEL IS RELEASED EVEN FOR A FEW SECONDS, VEHICLE PULLS HARD TO THE RIGHT AND WILL PUT YOU IN THE DITCH IF YOU ARE NOT PAYING ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE SHOULD TRACK STRAIGHT WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL IS RELEASED.

ODI #10372024EQUIPMENT

I WAS ONLINE WATCHING YELLOW SPRINTER AND WHITE SPRINTER? ( NOT FORD TRANSIT) FOR FRAUDULENT CRASH TEST DISCRIPTION. WHILE VEHICLE MUST BE EARLY SPRINTER? HTTP://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH? AND V=C3KN6WF5VAAHTTP://WWW.GOOGLE.COM/#SCLIENT=PSY&HL=EN&SITE=&SOURCE=HP&Q=SPRITNER+CHASH+TEST&AQ=F&AQI=G-L1&AQL=&OQ=&GS_RFAI=&PSJ=1&FP=CA05A7BB65E82229.* TR

Annual complaints and reliability score for MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class — recall years marked in red
035050100201020122014201620182020202220242026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 33 total NHTSA complaints filed over 12 years, with the worst year being 2020 (5 complaints).

The amber reliability line averaged 88/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 70/100 in 2020.

Notably, despite 33 complaints on file, no recall has been issued — either the defect pattern has not met NHTSA's threshold for a formal campaign, or a recall may be forthcoming.

Red dots on the amber line flag 2021, a year when complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

Details & Analysis
Financial
$50,864
~$848/mo over 5 yrs
$0.3/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$9,750
Maintenance
$23,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $50,864 (~$848/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$2,330–$2,970/yr
~$194–$248/mo
Liability Only
$650–$820/yr
~$54–$68/mo
Category: Luxury SUV/SedanModerate surcharge risk
High theft risk model: +18% to comprehensive premium 16-year-old vehicle: −28% (lower ACV reduces comprehensive/collision cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

High
3.0× national average · 32/1,000 vehicles
Recovery rate:45%of stolen MERCEDES-BENZ S-Classs are recovered

MERCEDES-BENZ S-Class has an elevated theft rate (3.0× average). Factor in higher comprehensive insurance costs.

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VINWDDNG8GB6AA287479
Model Year2010
MakeMERCEDES-BENZ
ModelS-Class
TrimS550 4-MATIC
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSedan/Saloon
Doors4
Drive TypeAWD/All-Wheel Drive
Fuel TypeGasoline

Engine

Engine Cylinders8
Displacement (L)5.5

Manufacturer

ManufacturerMERCEDES-BENZ CARS
Assembly CitySINDELFINGEN
Assembly CountryGERMANY

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)WDD
Check Digit (Char 9)6
Model Year Code (Char 10)A
Plant Code (Char 11)A
Sequence (Chars 12–17)287479

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count0
NHTSA Complaint Count33
W
1
D
2
D
3
N
4
G
5
8
6
G
7
B
8
6
9
A
10
A
11
2
12
8
13
7
14
4
15
7
16
9
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
W
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
D
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
D
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
NG8GB
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
6
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
A
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
A
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
287479
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Germany
From VIN position 1 (W)
Model Year Character
"A" → 2010
Could also be 1980
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 5/20/2026, 8:41:41 PM.