2018 Mercedes-Benz S-class: common problems and reliability

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-class has 61 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are engine and steering. Owners most often flag \nwater intrusion leading to electrical faults (can bus failures) — potential for no-start conditions and dead screens. frequency: recurrent.\n\nm278 v8 engine concerns (pre-2015 w222) — potential for cylinder wall scoring, particularly in cylinder 5. frequency: recurrent.\n\nair suspension failures — components can fail, leading to a sagging or bouncy ride, especially at higher mileages (around 60k+ miles). frequency: recurrent.\n\nexcessive screen/tech-centric interior (w223) — criticism of cheap-looking, poorly integrated screens that replace traditional luxury materials and design. frequency: very frequent.\n\nhomogenized design language — the s-class is criticized for losing its unique, grand appearance and looking too similar to cheaper models like the a-class. frequency: recurrent.\n\nhigh tire wear — noted as a common wear item. frequency: isolated.\n\nremarks\nowner feedback is sharply divided by generation. the w220 (1999-2005) is noted as potentially the least reliable modern s-class. the w222 is widely regarded as a high point for reliability and owner satisfaction. the launch of the w223 represents a significant philosophical shift for the brand, moving decisively towards digital interiors, which has alienated a portion of the traditional s-class buyer base. discussions frequently compare the s-class to its electric sibling, the eqs, which is seen as a different vehicle targeting a different experience, often at a significant price premium. analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions across multiple generations.

Safety record for the 2018 model year

61
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
4
Crash reports
4
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-class vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

engine
14
steering
10
service brakes
10
suspension
7
power train
6

Recalls affecting the 2018 S-class

power train:driveline:universal joint

Campaign 26V216000

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018 E 400 4MATIC Sedan, E 400 4MATIC Wagon, E 400 4MATIC Cabriolet, E 400 4MATIC Coupe, 2018-2020 Maybach S 560 4MATIC, S 560 4MATIC Coupe, S 450 4MATIC, 2019-2020 E 4…

What owners say across generations

\nSentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and model year. Long-term owners of the W222 generation (2014-2020) report high satisfaction with its comfort, luxury, and reliability, with one owner noting over 165,000 miles with only min

  • \nWater intrusion leading to electrical faults (CAN bus failures) — potential for no-start conditions and dead screens. Frequency: recurrent.\n\nM278 V8 engine concerns (pre-2015 W222) — potential for cylinder wall scoring, particularly in cylinder 5. Frequency: recurrent.\n\nAir suspension failures — components can fail, leading to a sagging or bouncy ride, especially at higher mileages (around 60k+ miles). Frequency: recurrent.\n\nExcessive screen/tech-centric interior (W223) — criticism of cheap-looking, poorly integrated screens that replace traditional luxury materials and design. Frequency: very frequent.\n\nHomogenized design language — the S-Class is criticized for losing its unique, grand appearance and looking too similar to cheaper models like the A-Class. Frequency: recurrent.\n\nHigh tire wear — noted as a common wear item. Frequency: isolated.\n\nRemarks\nOwner feedback is sharply divided by generation. The W220 (1999-2005) is noted as potentially the least reliable modern S-Class. The W222 is widely regarded as a high point for reliability and owner satisfaction. The launch of the W223 represents a significant philosophical shift for the brand, moving decisively towards digital interiors, which has alienated a portion of the traditional S-Class buyer base. Discussions frequently compare the S-Class to its electric sibling, the EQS, which is seen as a different vehicle targeting a different experience, often at a significant price premium. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions across multiple generations.

Owner insights cover all generations of the S-class.

Other S-class model years

2023 S-class2022 S-class2021 S-class2020 S-class2017 S-class2016 S-class2015 S-class2014 S-class2013 S-class2011 S-class2010 S-class2009 S-class2006 S-class2005 S-class2003 S-class2002 S-class
Full Mercedes-Benz S-class owner reportCompare against another car