Mercedes-Benz S 500
Return to the inline-six after years of the M276 V6 — and the difference is immediately noticeable. Smoother, more even rev build-up, torque plateau from 1,600–4,000 rpm without any weakness. The 48V mild-hybrid system with integrated starter-generator (ISG) is not a marketing term: 16 kW of boost on pull-away fills turbo lag completely; measurable fuel saving in sail mode. When buying, check the 48V battery — failure costs 2,000–4,000 EUR, primarily affecting build years up to 2022. Electric coolant pumps can fail from 80,000 km. Change oil every 10,000 km, do not rely on Longlife — HPFP and camshaft adjusters are sensitive to old oil. Cold-start wastegate bushing rattle is by design and not a fault. Overall a very accomplished engine that holds 250,000 km without issues when maintained correctly.
S500 W223 — Inline-Six at Eight-Cylinder Level
320 kW M256 in the W223 flagship: the power matches the ambition. Runs on the level of large V8s without their consumption. Best insulation, best 48V integration, best handling of the engine across the entire M256 programme. Those who don't need V8 sound get the most complete inline-six performance here.
Engine Weaknesses 9
Frequently reported problem: 48V battery of the EQ Boost system fails and costs 2,000–4,000 EUR to replace. Design issue with earth connection in early vehicles.
Symptoms: EQ Boost deactivated, start-stop system failed, hybrid warning light, sporadic starting problems
The known Mercedes problem of leaking camshaft solenoids also affects the M256 (same solenoid technology as M276/M270). Oil migrates by capillary action and destroys lambda sensors and the ECU.
Symptoms: Lambda sensor fault codes, MIL, rough running. Multiple electrical faults simultaneously as it progresses
M256 shows elevated oil consumption from approx. 100,000 km, attributable to the PCV system and cylinder walls. Regular oil level checks necessary.
Symptoms: Dropping oil level, occasional bluish smoke after warm-up phase
The beltless M256 operates exclusively electric coolant pumps. Pump motors fail internally and trigger temperature warnings. Bleeding requires specialist diagnostic equipment.
Symptoms: Coolant temperature warning, irregular operating temperature, occasional overheating warning
The camshaft-driven high-pressure pump on the M256 can wear prematurely with irregular oil changes. Injectors can be damaged by metal debris.
Symptoms: Fuel pressure fault codes, rough idle, starting problems, hesitation under load, elevated fuel consumption
With predominantly short-trip use the OPF cannot fully regenerate. Power drop and elevated consumption result. Virtually no risk for motorway drivers.
Symptoms: Power drop at higher load, elevated fuel consumption, occasional particulate filter warning, engine runs rougher
The M256 uses Camtronic variable valve actuation — same technology as M276/M270 with documented failures. Wear on the adjustment unit or solenoid valve is possible. Oil quality is decisive.
Symptoms: Hesitation at low rpm, camshaft position sensor fault code, rough idle, engine warning with power reduction
Direct injection on the M256 inline-six causes carbon deposits on intake valves. Walnut blasting every 60,000–80,000 km recommended.
Symptoms: Hesitation in the lower rev range, rough idle, sporadic misfires on cold start
Rattling on cold start from the wastegate guide bush with design-inherent play. BorgWarner states this is necessary so the wastegate does not stick at operating temperature. Mercedes classes it as state of the art — not a defect.
Symptoms: Rattling or clattering in the first seconds after cold start, disappears after warm-up
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
In early production of the W223 at Plant 56 Sindelfingen, the inner tie rods were fitted the wrong way round on approximately 1,400 vehicles. Tie rod failure could compromise steering ability.
A fault in the voltage converter software caused the ESP control unit to incorrectly detect a malfunction and deactivate itself. 23,517 S-Class vehicles (model year 2020–2021) worldwide were affected.
The MBUX system shows sporadic complete failures of both screens. Cause is software and hardware faults in the head unit. OTA updates required.
The W223 has high quiescent current draw through permanent internet connections and app queries. After 5–7 days standing, the app reports a critical battery warning.
The electric ABC system with 48V technology shows calibration problems and software faults on early build years. Specialist diagnosis at Mercedes required.
Mercedes recalled the W223 due to a software fault in the secondary electrical system voltage converter. The software could cause the secondary battery to discharge.
Reports & Tests
99 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2020–2025). Most reported: Collision Avoidance (27), Electrical (26), Brakes (14).