2015 Mercedes-Benz S550

Routine

Owners filed 41 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the seat belts. It has been recalled 5 times.

Most common 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 problems

5 of the 41 complaints (12%) are about the seat belts.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Unknown or Other5
000
Structure › Body · body and frame4
001
Seat Belts4
000
Air Bags · airbags4
305
Wheels3
000
Steering3
000
Engine3
010
Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly2
001
Visibility/Wiper · wipers2
010
Tires2
000

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2014: 2 complaints, 0 about the seat belts'142015: 2 complaints, 0 about the seat belts2016: 1 complaints, 0 about the seat belts'162017: 2 complaints, 0 about the seat belts2018: 3 complaints, 0 about the seat belts'182019: 2 complaints, 0 about the seat belts2020: 4 complaints, 1 about the seat belts'202021: 2 complaints, 0 about the seat belts2022: 2 complaints, 0 about the seat belts'222023: 7 complaints, 1 about the seat belts2024: 6 complaints, 2 about the seat belts'242025: 7 complaints, 1 about the seat belts2026: 1 complaints, 0 about the seat belts'26Recall 16V899000 (steering)Recall 17V177000 (electrical system)Recall 19V787000 (communication)Recall 21V197000 (body and frame)Recall 23V854000 (body and frame)NHTSA investigation PE21001
All complaintsAbout the seat beltsRecall (red: the seat belts)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2015 S550 peaked in 2023, with 7 filed that year. In 2026 owners filed 1 so far.

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Structure › Body › Roof and Pillars23V854000
Filed Dec 15, 20232,976 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair, allowing the front panel to detach from the vehicle.

Risk. A detached roof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 2, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on, March 22,2024, and August 2, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V-197.

Structure › Body › Roof and Pillars21V197000
Filed Mar 19, 202115,096 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016 GLA45 AMG, S600, 2016-2020 GLC300, 2017-2019 GLC43 AMG, GLE43 Coupe AMG, 2014-2019 CLA250 Coupe, 2014-2015 CLA45 AMG, 2018 GLC63 AMG, 2014-2017 S550, 2018-2020 S450, 2016-2019 GLE63 Coupe AMG, 2016 GLE450 Coupe, 2014-2020 S63 AMG, 2018-2019 S560, and 2019 GLC350e vehicles equipped with a panoramic sunroof. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair.

Risk. The adhesive bonding of the front panel might deteriorate, possibly causing the front panel to detach from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Mercedes-Benz dealer will remove the bonded panel and will install a new front panel by following the detailed repair instructions and using the approved primer, cleaner and adhesive, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021 and October 26, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Communication19V787000
Filed Nov 1, 201924,226 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2017 vehicles due to a software fault that may cause the date and time for the emergency call system (eCall) to differ from the actual date and time, potentially relaying an inaccurate vehicle location. For a full list of the affected models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2019/RMISC-19V787-4620.pdf

Risk. An inaccurate vehicle location may delay emergency responders, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. MBUSA has initiated an Over the Air (OTA) remote update. MBUSA will also notify owners, and dealers will check software for a successful OTA or update the communication module software as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019120008.

Electrical System › Software17V177000
Filed Mar 14, 201751 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 AMG GT-S, GLC300, CLA250 and GLE300d 4Matic vehicles, 2013 C250, E350 BlueTec and G63 AMG vehicles, 2008-2014 C300 vehicles, 2013-2014 C300 4Matic and ML350 4Matic vehicles, 2009 C350 vehicles, 2014 CLS550, E350 4Matic, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E350 Wagon 4Matic, GLK350 and SL550 vehicles, 2012 CLS550 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2016 E350 vehicles, 2016-2017 GL450 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2014 ML350 4Matic BlueTec vehicles, 2015 S550, S550 4Matic and C300 4Matic Sedan vehicles, 2015-2016 C300 Sedan vehicles, and 2017 SL63 AMG vehicles. Various control units on these vehicles may have been updated with incorrect software, potentially affecting the correct deployment of the air bags in the event of a crash.

Risk. If the air bags do not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, there would be an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update software in the affected control units, free of charge. The recall began April 21, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System16V899000
Filed Dec 14, 201670 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 SL550, 2013-2014 SL63 AMG, 2014-2016 E350, 2014 E350 Cabriolet, E350 Coupe, 2014-2015 S550, 2015 E350 Bluetec, 2015-2016 E400, 2016 E550 Coupe, and Maybach S600 vehicles manufactured August 23, 2012, to August 14, 2015. The affected vehicles use an electric power steering system that may have improperly soldered contacts inside the control unit, potentially resulting in the power steering system deactivating while driving.

Risk. If the control unit pins lose connection, there would be a loss of electric power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash. The increase in pin contact resistance can also increase the risk of a fire, even while the vehicle is parked and ignition is off.

Remedy. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric power steering control unit, free of charge. The recall began October 13, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. One names the 2015 S550.

Front Roof Panel DetachmentPreliminary evaluation PE21001Closed
Opened Jan 8, 2021Closed Oct 14, 2021Led to recall 21V197000body and frame

On January 8, 2021, after ongoing review with Mercedes Benz, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-001 to assess allegations of front roof panel detachments while driving at highway speeds in certain 2015 Mercedes-Benz (Mercedes) C-Class vehicles.The subject front roof panel is a stationary panel composed of polycarbonate and is attached to the vehicle via adhesive at the time of manufacture. The panel is found on subject vehicles equipped with panoramic sunroofs. Over time, the subject panels may exhibit cosmetic …

Technical service bulletins

137 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2015 S550. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

electrical system 44transmission 13suspension 13headlights 13engine 13equipment 11body and frame 8wipers 6
NCU - 2022080005Service campaignAug 10, 2024electrical system

Mercedes-Benz AG ("MBAG"), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain Model Year (“MY”) C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, G-Class, CL, CLS, ML, GL, GLE, GLS, GLC, SL, and AMG GT (204, 205, 207, 212, 213, 217, 221, 222, 463, 216, 218, 166, 292, 253, 231, and 190 platforms) vehicles with 6 and 8 cylinder gasoline engines, the software …

NCU - 24240304Warranty extensionMar 12, 2024body and frame

As previously reported, to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, avoid further costs of litigation and return focus to its core businesses, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) has entered into a Settlement regarding claims relating to allegations that the 590 Mars Red paint available as an original, exterior color option for certain models of Mercedes-Benz …

EW-Exhaust Valve AssemblyWarranty extensionSep 6, 2023engine

This NCU replaces the prior NCU issued on March 10, 2023, and contains clarification on reimbursement timeline and removal of damage codes related to intake valves/guide. In our continuing efforts to assure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC ("MBUSA") is extending the …

CL-Exhaust Valve AssemblyWarranty extensionSep 6, 2023engine

In our continuing efforts to assure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA ("MBUSA") is extending the coverage for the exhaust valve assembly on your vehicle as follows: Why the warranty extension? On certain Model Year 2011-2016 CL/CLS/S/E/ML/SL/G/GL/GLE-Class vehicles with V8 …

What owners reported

Newest filings
Steering
Filed Jan 30, 2026FL

I loss my electric steering assist!!! Takes 2 gorillas to turn the wheel i was able to stop without crashing into anything

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Aug 5, 2025152,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH and approaching a stop, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. There was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the engine, and the brakes squeaked while turning. While refueling the vehicle, there was fuel leaking from the vehicle. The contact stated that while driving and attempting to stop, the brake pedal was depressed and felt loose, and the vehicle hesitated while coming to a stop. The vehicle was restarted and taken to a local dealer; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. Several local independent mechanics were contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 152,000.

Air Bags
Filed Jun 5, 202510,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the air bag warning light remained illuminated, with the message "Front Drivers Air Bag Malfunction - Service Required" displayed. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V177000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, AIR BAGS). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 10,000.

Engine
Filed Apr 17, 2025GA

Brought my vehicle to my mechanic because of noise that recently appeared in my car. To my surprise the mechanic stated that my engine is completely failing and would require an entire new engine. I purchased this car less than two years ago with an estimated 79,000 miles. Vehicle currently has an estimated 112,000 miles. Never missed a service interval for the vehicle. Now several components of the engine are completely failing.

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 8, 2025CA

Roof panel between windshield and panoramic sunroof has developed fine hairline fractures on the polycarbonate panel. Why wasn't my vehicle included in recall 21V-197? Thanks for your time.

Steering
Filed Mar 9, 2025VA

The steering wheel became difficult to control.Also,steering wheel module waring light came on.

Seat Belts
Filed Mar 4, 2025CA

The rear seatbelts do not retract to restrain the passenger. They also don't retract after the passenger has exited the vehicle.

Engine
Filed Feb 13, 2025KS

Cylinder wall 2 and 3 scorn horribly. Coolant leaking into cylinder 2 & 3. Dealer recommendation of new motor due to bad block. German Auto Works and CarStoreUSA Wichita KS both recommend new motor and have advised of many of same motors being recalled by Mercedes Benz. I also spoke with Mercedes Benz North America. The heads were replaced in 2022 already and have under 10k miles on motor since repair.

Tires
Filed Sep 29, 2024FL

RIGHT FRONT TIRE 245/45R19B 102.H.M.S I HAD A MAJOR BLOWOUT. THE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE HAD A WHOLE THE SIZE OF A RETANGULAR BRICK. i COULD HAVE LOST CONTROL AND HURT MYSELF AND OTHERS. I HAD MY BRAKES REPLACED AND THE TIRES ALIGNED AND BALANCED A COUPLE OF DAYS BEFORE. THE MECHANIC SAID IT WAS UNUSUAL FOR THE TIRES TO SHOW WEAR ON THE OUTSIDE AND INSIDE TREAD. AT 75 MPH IT WAS LIKE A LOAD EXPLOSION. BECAUSE THEY ARE RUN FLAT TIRES I DID NOT BRAKE AND COASTED TO THE EXIT WHICH WAS CLOSE BY. INSURANCE CLAIM WAS FILED AND ADJUSTER REVIEWED THE TIRE, THEY DID PAY FOR A NEW TIRE AND LABOR, I HAD TO PAY FOR REALIGNMENT THE CAR WAS FLAT BEDDED TO THE NEAREST MERCEDES REPAIR SHOP. THE TIRE WAS REPLACED AND THEY REALIGNED AGAIN. THEY SAID I WAS VERY LUCKY NOT TO HAVE HAD A MAJOR ACCIDENT OR EVEN DONE MORE DAMAGE TO THE CAR. THE MECHANIC SAID TO CHECK FOR RECALLS BECAUSE THE OF THE RECTANGULAR SIZE ON THE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE. I DID NOT RUN OVER ANYTHING IN THE ROAD. THE CAR ROAD SMOOTHLY AFTER THE TIRE WAS REPLACED I HAVE THE SAME TIRE ON THE RIGHT FRONT. I AM VERY NERVOUS IT COULD HAPPEN AGAIN.

Suspension
Filed Sep 18, 2024100,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed a squeaking sound coming from the undercarriage of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with suspension strut spring control arm joint. The contact was informed that the suspension strut spring control arm joint needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Seat Belts › Front › Retractor
Filed May 31, 202475,000 milesGA

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated that the rear driver's side seat belt was inoperable. The contact stated that the seat belt failed to retract as designed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed seat belt retractor. The contact was informed that the seat belt retractor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Structure › Body
Filed May 13, 2024GA

The driver side reader door can be opened when the door is locked. The door can be inspected on request. The risk is that the door can be opened when the door is indicated as locked. There are no lights to the contrary. The car is inspected by Mercedes dealer at McFarland in Georgia. See Mercedes recall Campaign 2018010009, March 2018.

Seat Belts
Filed Apr 17, 2024NJ

Rear passenger seat belt will not retract. Has done twice before and took weeks before retracting by itself.

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 27, 2024NC

There is an active recall on the 2015 Mercedes S550 for the Front Stationary Sunroof panel however my vehicle is not part of the recall due to the Vin#. Regardless the Front Stationary Sunroof Panel on my vehicle has failed and risks coming off while driving which could come into impact with another vehicle.

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 26, 2023GA

The windshield cracks and spreads rapidly without any evidential cause for a crack and yes it would be available for inspection upon request. This is the 5th replacement in 5 years - 2 in one year alone: 1st - At the time of purchase with only 16555 miles (MPI) RBM replaced the windshield. 2nd - 1/21/20 - 40410 miles (Just got home from a drive through car wash and noticed the crack). 3rd - 7/24/20 - 42150 miles. 4th - 8/26/22 - 62274 miles. 5th - 6/18/23 - 77172 miles. Safety was at risk due to nervousness as to what could ultimately happen affecting driving ability. The problem has reproduced itself 5 times. RBM has refused to take responsibility and consistently escalates replacement cost. No warnings or causes leading to cracks/breakage

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 11, 2023TX

My 2015 S550 front stationary sunroof glass panel coating is fading.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 27, 2023NY

I bought my S-class car at a Manhattan dealership with 4900 miles on it, I treated it like my baby I’m the only driver and all services and maintenance had been done at the dealership, and I started getting bad readings on the fuel, check engine is ON, fuel gauge reads Full then goes down to Empty The mechanics at the Manhattan dealership said it was short on the fuel tank and I need to have the whole new tank replaced, my understanding is this model, the S Class has been having this issue on many models and there was a soft recall on that matter and it can be fixed at the dealership, we do have a case number with the Dealership. case number 03656172

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 17, 2023TX

I am writing to report an incident that occurred on Oct 17 2023 involving my 2015 Mercedes Benz S550, where the front portion of the two-part sunroof spontaneously exploded while I was driving down the highway. On the aforementioned date, at approximately 5 pm, I was traveling down Beltway 8 In Houston in my Mercedes Benz S550 along with a pack of cars. Suddenly, without any warning signs or external impact, my vehicle experienced a violent shaking accompanied by an extremely loud popping sound, reminiscent of a gunshot. The intensity of the event startled me, and I quickly maneuvered my car to safety while other drivers also reacted to the sudden disturbance on the road. Once I pulled over and inspected the damage, I was horrified to discover that the front portion of the two-part sunroof had completely shattered, leaving a significant hole and glass fragments both inside and outside the vehicle. The explosion occurred on the Beltway, before the Kirby exit. Fortunately, I escaped any injury as the glass fragments were ejected upwards due to the force of the explosion. It is important to highlight the potential devastation that could have occurred had I kept the screen under the sunroof rolled in, as is my usual practice. Considering the size and force of the explosion, it is reasonable to imagine that if the glass had come pouring down onto my head and body, it could have caused severe injuries, including lacerations, contusions, and possibly even more serious harm. In light

Seat Belts
Filed Oct 10, 2023MI

Driver rear seatbelt is fully extended and won’t retract. A quick google search shows that this is a common problem with this model.

Tires
Filed Oct 2, 202344,000 milesAR

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 equipped with Pirelli Tires, Tire Line: P Zero Nero, Tire Size: 275/35/R20, DOT Number: XNX0M2622716. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, there was an abnormal vibration coming from the tires. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing, and it was confirmed that there was tread separated on the rear tires. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The VIN was not available. The tire failure mileage was 10,000. The approximate vehicle failure mileage was 44,000.

Visibility/WiperFire
Filed Mar 23, 2023FL

I'm reporting a problem that can cause the vehicle to catch on fire. During cold temperatures the heated windshield will turn on and the car will catch on fire.

EngineFire
Filed Nov 2, 2022FL

I drove my 2015 MERCEDES BENZ S550 4MATIC APPROXIMATELY 20 MILES TO WORK, PARKED IN THE PARKING LOT AND ABOUT 30 MINUTES LATER, I WAS ALERTED BY PEMBROKE PINES POLICE (CASE# PPPD22OFF050792) THAT MY CAR WAS BURNING WHEN I GOT TO THE PARKING LOT PEMBROKE PINES FIRE DEPT WAS IN THE PROCESS OF EXTINGUISHING A CATASTROPHIC FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE CAR DROVE PROBLEM FREE TO THAT POINT. NO WARNING LIGHTS, NO SMOKE, NO SMELL, NO LEAK.THE CAR WAS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION PRIOR TO THE FIRE WITH APPROX 93000 MILES. I HAD THE CAR SERVICED BY MB FORT LAUDERDALE 1 MONTH BEFORE THE INCIDENT AND NO UNRESOLVED MAINTENANCE ISSUES WERE FOUND. AFTER THE FIRE GEICO INSURANCE TOOK POSSESION OF THE CAR AND MERCEDES USA WAS GRANTED ACCESS. AFTER MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS HAVENT BEEN ABLE TO MAKE CONTACT WITH MBUSA SINCE THEN, NO CALLBACK

Steering › Electric Power Assist System
Filed Apr 11, 202245,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated while parking the vehicle he noticed that the "power steering malfunction" light was illuminated and the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that he waited and then restarted the vehicle and the vehicle regained power steering functionality. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was later towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed however, the mechanic could not determine the cause of the failure. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V899000 (Steering). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.

Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Filed Oct 12, 2021FL

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V197000 (STRUCTURE) and the dealer declined to service the recall because the sunroof panel was glass and not plastic. The manufacturer was made aware of the dealer's refusal and contacted the dealer. The manufacturer stated that the dealer would repair the recall. The contact stated she called the dealer again however, the dealer declined to remove the bonding adhesive and replace the front panel per the recall. The failure mileage was not available.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 8, 2021OH

The gear selector on the steering wheel of the Mercedes Benz has a park button on it when you change the car from gear to park you press that button. That part button has stopped working. It is a safety risk as the car cannot be parked at the end of the driving and it stays in the drive mode. I have to open the door to activate the parking which is built in to the car

Seat Belts
Filed Aug 6, 2020IL

MY WIFE INSTALLED A BABY CAR SEAT IN REAR PASSENGER SEAT. WHEN I UNBUCKLE TO CLEAN UP THE SEAT, SEAT BELTS WERE JAMMED AND LOCKED. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY QUOTED OVER 1200$ JUST FOR SEAT BELT REPLACEMENT.

Steering
Filed Jun 5, 202022,000 milesFL

THE STEERING COLUMN WENT BAD. IT STARTED MAKING NOISE, BUT NOT WARNING LIGHTS CAME ON. IF I HAD CONTINUED TO DRIVE IT, IT PROBABLY WOULD HAVE CRASHED. THE CAR ONLY HAD APPROXIMATELY 22,000 MILES ON IT. *TR

Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/PanelFire
Filed Apr 13, 202024,387 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES-BENZ S550. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, HE STARTED TO SMELL BURNING BRAKE PAD ODOR INSIDE OF THE CAB OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THE PARK BRAKE MALFUNCTION WARNING MESSAGE WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO PARK AT A NEAR CAR WASH PARKING LOT AND WHEN EXITING THE VEHICLE, HE SAW SMOKE AND FIRE NEAR THE REAR DRIVER CALIPER. THE CONTACT STATED AN EMPLOYEE FROM THE CAR WASH WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE FIRE OR POLICE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT STATED NO ONE WAS INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE CONTACT CALLED MERCEDES-BENZ OF TAMPA (4400 N DALE MABRY HWY, TAMPA, FL 33614) AND MADE THEM AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR END DRIVER SIDE ACTUATOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED YET. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED ON MARCH 16 2019, WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FAILED TO FUNCTION PROPERLY AND ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WAS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THIS FAILURE. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED IN DECEMBER 2018, WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATION STOPPED AT A STOP LIGHT, AND HE ATTEMPTED TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN THE STEERING WHEEL WAS MAKING AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO TAKE A VIDEO OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE

Air BagsCrash3 injured
Filed Jan 9, 2020FL

MY WIFE WAS DRIVING MY 2015 MERCEDES BENZ S-550 ON THE 14TH OF AUGUST, 2019. SHE HAD STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT AND WHEN IT TURNED GREEN CROSSED A 6 LANE INTERSECTION. SHE WAS MOVING THROUGH THE INTERSECTION WHEN SHE WAS HIT BY A VW PASSET WHO RAN THE RED LIGHT AT AN ESTIMATED 40 TO 50 MPH. THE PASSET HIT DEAD CENTER ON THE B PILLAR BETWEEN THE DOORS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE MERCEDES. ALL AIR CURTAINS AND A REAR SEAT AIR BAG DEPLOYED ON THE UNOCCUPIED PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CAR, NONE DEPLOYED TO PROTECT DRIVER'S HEAD ABEAM THE B PILLAR.. MY WIFE'S HEAD WHIPPED VIOLENTLY TO THE RIGHT TOWARDS THE CRASH, THEN WHIPPED BACK VIOLENTLY TO THE LEFT HITTING THE LARGE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR PROTRUSION BUILT INTO THE B-PILLAR. SHE WAS BRIEFLY UNCONSCIOUS AND SUFFERED A SEVERE CONCUSSION AND MAYBE MORE AS MEDICAL TESTS ARE STILL ON GOING. IN ADDITION, SHE SUFFERED 4 HERNIATED DISCS IN HER NECK, 2 SEVERE. SHE ALSO SUFFERED AN ACUTE HERNIATED DISC IN HER LOWER BACK AS WELL AS NOW HAS SOME TMJ ISSUES WITH HER JAW AND HAS TO WEAR A MOUTHPIECE TO SLEEP. NO AIR BAGS OR SIDE AIR CURTAINS DEPLOYED ON THE DRIVERS SIDE OF THE CAR, THAT WOULD HAVE HELPED PROTECT HER HEAD AND LIKELY LESSENED THE SIDE TO SIDE WHIPLASH CAUSING THE HERNIATED DISC ISSUES. WHEN I CALLED MERCEDES BENZ TO INQUIRE WHY NO DRIVERS SIDE AIR CURTAINS OR AIR BAGS DEPLOYED, I RECEIVED A LETTER BACK SAYING THEY WERE NOT DESIGNED TO DEPLOY IN THIS CASE THE CAR, WAS A TOTAL LOSS WITH A $65,000 SETTLEMENT CHECK. MB IS SAYING ONLY THE SID

Wheels
Filed Jun 18, 201924,753 milesFL

THE RIMS ON THE CAR CRACKING. I REPLACED THE RIMS IN THE TWO FRONT WHEELS AND NOW THE RIGHT REAR RIM IS CRACKED, I HAVE REPORTED THIS PREVIOUSLY TO YOUR COMMISSION INCLUDING SENDING PICTURES. THE DEALER DOES NOT WANT TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY. IN THE FUTURE PROBABLY THE 4TH WHEEL RIM WILL HAVE THE SAME FATE.

Wheels
Filed Feb 16, 201922,300 milesFL

ON 10,2018 I NOTICED LOSS OF AIR PRESSURE ON THE LEFT FRONT TIRE. AFTER INFLATING THE TIRE TWICE, I BROUGHT THE CAR TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO TOLD ME THAT THERE IS A CRACK ON THE RIM. AFTER 5 DAY'S THE RIM WAS REPLACED WITH A NEW ONE. THE EXPLANATION GIVEN TO ME WAS THAT I HIT A POT HOLE. THIS PAST WEEK THE SAME HAPPENED ON THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL, GIVING ME THE SAME EXPLANATION. THIS TIME I TOOK PICTURE OF THE RIM AND NOTICED THAT THERE 3 CRACKS IN THE INNER ASPECT OF THE RIM IN A RADIAL FASHION. PERSONALLY I DON'T RECALL BITING A POTHOLE OR ANYTHING ELSE. THE OUTSIDE ASPECT OF THE RIM IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION. I BELIEVE THIS IS A MANUFACTURING PROBLEM THAT HAS THE POTENTIAL TO CAUSE A MAJOR ACCIDENT WHEN YOU DRIVE ON A HIGHWAY. THE PHOTOS I TOOK WAS WITH MY CELL PHONE BUT UNFORTUNATELY I AM NOT SAVVY ENOUGH TO TRANSFER. HOWEVER, I FIND AN EXPERT TO DOWNLOAD AND MAKE HARD COPIES. *TR *JS

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 15, 201830,877 milesFL

THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR ON THE PASSENGER SIDE INDICATE THAT IT IS LOCKED, AND DESPITE THIS, IT CAN BE OPENED FROM THE OUTSIDE WITHOUT A KEY OR REMOTE.

Electrical SystemCrash
Filed Mar 28, 2018MA

2015 MERCEDES BENZ S-550. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE SECURITY SYSTEMS MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL FAILURE ACCIDENT. *SMD *TR

Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Mar 1, 201811,000 milesCA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES BENZ S550. WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE CONTACT WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONT END COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS PARTIALLY DEPLOYED AND THE SEAT BELT DID NOT TIGHTEN. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BULGING DISC AND SEVERE NERVE DAMAGE TO THE LEFT HAND AND LEGS. THE CONTACT WAS RECOMMENDED TO HAVE SURGERY FOR THE NERVE DAMAGE. THE CONTACT'S MOTHER SUFFERED BRUISING AND A CONCUSSION. BOTH OCCUPANTS RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A BODY SHOP AND WAS DEEMED REPAIRABLE. IT WAS UNKNOWN IF A DEALER WAS CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THE AIR BAGS PERFORMED AS INTENDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,000.

Structure › Body1 injured
Filed Jul 20, 20174,500 milesPA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES BENZ S550. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATED ON THE HIGHWAY, ANOTHER DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND ALMOST CAUSED A SIDE IMPACT ACCIDENT. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE INTO THE MEDIAN. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN BACK OVER TO THE HIGHWAY, THE FORCE CAUSED THE CONTACT'S WIFE TO HIT THE DOOR AND IT OPENED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO BRING TO THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND GET THE DOOR CLOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SMAIL MERCEDES WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT FAILURE WAS INHERENT TO GERMAN VEHICLES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE WHERE A CASE WAS OPENED AND THEY OFFERED $5,000 TOWARD THE PURCHASE OF A NEW MERCEDES VEHICLE. THE CONTACT'S WIFE SUFFERED FROM TROUBLE BREATHING, MODERATE MUSCLE PAIN. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT RECEIVED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 4,500. UPDATED 08/29/17*LJ *CN

Wheels
Filed Apr 28, 201720,000 milesVA

AFTER THE CAR HAD BEEN OPERATED FOR ~20K MILES, IT WAS TIME TO TAKE IT IN FOR TIRE REPLACEMENT. THIS WAS EXPECTED SEEING AS THE STOCK TIRES ARE A SOFT COMPOUND TIRE. WHILE AT THE TIRE SHOP, IT WAS DETERMINED THE FRONT PASSENGER RIM, AND REAR DRIVER SIDE RIM, WE BOTH CRACKED. THE FRONT HAD FOUR CRACKS ON THE INSIDE EDGE OF THE RIM, AND TWO CRACKS ON THE REAR RIM. AFTER DISCUSSING THIS ISSUE WITH MY LOCAL DEALER, HE INFORMED ME THAT MANY CUSTOMERS HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT SOFT ALUMINUM RIMS INSTALLED ON THE MERCEDES S CLASS. APPARENTLY THESE RIMS ARE EASILY DENTED, CRACKED, OR PUNCTURED, EVEN DURING NORMAL OPERATION ON ROADS WITHOUT POTHOLES. I BELIEVE THESE RIMS ARE A SAFETY HAZARD TO NOT ONLY THE OCCUPANTS OF MY CAR, BUT ALSO TO OTHER DRIVERS ON THE ROAD. APPARENTLY THIS ISSUE HAS COME TO LIGHT IN YEARS PAST; JUST GOOGLE LUPPINO ET AL V. MERCEDES-BENZ USA. MERCEDES NEEDS TO PLACE A RECALL ON THESE RIMS TO ENSURE THE PROPERTY SAFETY OF THEIR VEHICLES ON OUR ROADWAYS.

Wheels › Rim
Filed Oct 31, 201620,000 milesIL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES-BENZ S550. WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO WOBBLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE OCCURRED TWICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE RIMS WERE FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THREE OF THE FOUR RIMS COULD BE REPAIRED, BUT THE REMAINING RIM HAD TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE RIMS WERE THE ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 20,000. UPDATED 01/05/2017*CT

Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly1 injured
Filed May 6, 2015150 milesCA

DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND HEARD A LOUD SOUND. THE GLASS ON THE SUNROOF EXPLODED AND BROKE OFF IN CHUNKS HITTING DRIVER REPEATEDLY UNTIL APPROXIMATELY 80% OF THE GLASS COLLAPSED. GLASS SHARDS CUT DRIVER. MBWORLD SHOWS SIMILAR INCIDENTS TO OTHER MERCEDES-BENZ VEHICLES. MERCEDES-BENZ AUTOBAHN BELMONT, CA AND MERCEDES BENZ (CORPORATE NJ) WOULD NOT COVER UNDER WARRANTY OR ADMIT DEFECT. SEE SAMPLE OF POSTINGS: HTTP://MBWORLD.ORG/FORUMS/E-CLASS-W212/405329-2011-E350-EXPLODING-SUNROOF.HTML HTTP://MBWORLD.ORG/FORUMS/C-CLASS-W204/544374-EXPLODING-SHATTERED-SUNROOF-TRISTAR-MERCEDES-ST-LOUIS-MO.HTML HTTP://MBWORLD.ORG/FORUMS/C-CLASS-W203/346317-C230-SUNROOF-EXPLODED.HTML HTTP://MBWORLD.ORG/FORUMS/C-CLASS-W203/525268-SUNROOF-BLEW-OUT-EXPLODED.HTML HTTP://MBWORLD.ORG/FORUMS/GL-CLASS-X166/550965-PANORAMIC-ROOF-BLEW-UP.HTML. *TR

Air BagsCrash
Filed Mar 11, 2015CA

NEW VEHICLE (FROM MERCEDES OF ENCINO) WAS BEING DRIVEN IN A TEST DRIVE. EB ON BURBANK BL-SPEED LIMIT 50MPH--IN CENTER LANE OF 3 EB- MBZ SALESMAN REACHED ACROSS DRIVER AND SET CRUISE AT 40MPH AND ENCOURAGED DRIVER TO TEST THE COLLISION PREVENTION SYSTEM---TRAFFIC AHEAD WAS STOPPED AT LIGHT---SALESMAN CONTINUED TO TELL DRIVER TO NOT APPLY BRAKES--DRIVER DID NOT APPLY BRAKES---COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM FAILED--SEAT BELT TENSIONERS FAILED---AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY WHEN S550 COLLIDED WITH REAR OF STOPPED VEHICLE (ECLASS MBZ) AT APPROX 40MPH. BACK SEAT PASSENGER (DRIVER'S WIFE) WAS HOSPITALIZED FOR CRACKED STERNUM---DRIVER WAS SEEN BY CHIROPRACTOR FOR AGGRAVATION OF LOWER BACK MUSCLES--------MBZ ENCINO STILL HAS THE VEHICLE, PRESUMABLY IN POST CRASH CONDITION. MEETING IS SET AT MBZ ENCINO FOR MARCH 20, 2015 TO INSPECT VEHICLE. MY ATTORNEY WILL BE IN ATTENDANCE. *TR

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Dec 9, 2014500 milesNY

AT NIGHT THERE IS A DANGEROUS,VERY DISTRACTING REFLECTION IN THE WINDSHIELD. WHAT IS BEING REFLECTED UPWARD ARE THE LIGHTED DIGITAL TACHOMETER AND SPEEDOMETER. WHEN THE DRIVER IS DRIVING AT NIGHT IN HIS OR HERS FIELD OF VIEW ARE THE DASH GAUGES REFLECTED VIVIDLY IN THE WINDSHIELD GLASS. THIS CONDITION EXISTS IN ALL 2015 S550'S. AND I BELIEVE THAT IT EXISTS ON ALL 2014 S550 PLEASE ADDRESS AS I ALMOST HAVE HAD 3 ACCIDENTS BEING DISTRACTED BY THIS AT NIGHT DRIVING. THANK YOU *TR

Forward Collision Avoidance › Dynamic Brake Support/Brake Assist
Filed Aug 29, 2014MD

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES BENZ S550. WHILE APPROACHING OTHER VEHICLES, THE DISTRONIC PLUS SYSTEM FAILED TO MEASURE THE CORRECT DISTANCE TO MAKE A STOP OR REDUCE SPEED. THE CONTACT INFORMED THE DEALER OF THE SAFETY CONCERN, BUT NO ACTION WAS TAKEN. THE CONTACT NOTIFIED THE MANUFACTURER OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE UNAVAILABLE.

All 41 complaints, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2007
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
2017161000Routine
201615500Routine
2015 — this page41530Routine
201424500Routine
20137000Routine
20125210Routine
20119210Routine
201016000Routine
200819000Routine
200754020Routine

Compare every S550 year →

2015 Mercedes-Benz S550: questions buyers ask

Is the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 a good car?

Owners filed 41 complaints with NHTSA; there are too few S550 years on record to rank this one against the others.

How many recalls does the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 have?

5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Dec 15, 2023. The largest, 19V787000, covered 24,226 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 22,300 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550?

Yes, once. PE21001 ("Front Roof Panel Detachment") was opened Jan 8, 2021 and closed Oct 14, 2021.

Are there service bulletins for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550?

The manufacturer filed 137 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (44), the transmission (13) and the suspension (13). They include a service campaign, NCU - 2022080005, filed Aug 10, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Dec 15, 2023. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.