Mercedes-Benz S-Klasse W222 Limousine
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
612–630 PS
6.0L V12 BiTurbo AMG Benzin
630 hp V12 in the State Saloon — Total Drivetrain Supremacy
Legendary!408–455 PS
4.7L V8 BiTurbo Benzin
9 weaknesses
Stay Away!Engine Overview
The Mercedes-Benz S-Klasse W222 Limousine is available with 11 engine variants — from 190 to 630 hp.
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| ABC/Magic Body Control hydraulics leaking The active electro-hydraulic ABC suspension requires intensive maintenance. Hydraulic lines, valve blocks and pumps can develop leaks. Hydraulic oil change required every 50,000 km. Symptoms: Warning 'visit workshop — ABC', vehicle rides harshly, bouncy handling from 120,000 km | High | |
| AIRMATIC air suspension failure Air bags and pressure hoses develop leaks. The compressor runs continuously and overheats. Repair: air bag pair 2,500–3,500 €, compressor 1,000–1,300 €. Symptoms: Vehicle sags on one side, compressor runs longer after starting, AIRMATIC fault message. from 100,000 km | High | |
| Airmatic/Magic Body Control air strut leaking Air struts on Airmatic and Magic Body Control suspensions develop leaks. Vehicle drops, suspension warning light appears. Repair per corner is very costly. Symptoms: Vehicle drops on one side, 'suspension' warning in instrument cluster, ride comfort deteriorates from 100,000 km | High | |
| Magic Body Control valve block defective The hydraulic Magic Body Control suspension is prone to valve block and hydraulic pump failures. Contamination in the oil causes system failures. Symptoms: ABC/suspension fault message, uncontrolled dropping, reduced ride comfort, hydraulic oil smell from 120,000 km | High |
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee