Quick Links
-
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: A Comprehensive Look
-
Engines And Performance
-
Comfort And Tech
-
Purchasing a 2008 S-Class: Concerns, Upkeep, and Cost Analysis
The
2008 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
makes for a great option when looking at used cars; here at
we discovered it to be the
most reliable used Mercedes
You can purchase immediately, considering our evaluation of problems, complaints, and the J.D. Power Quality and Reliability score.
Even though it’s almost two decades old, this Mercedes can still provide significant value for those seeking a pre-owned model. Many instances available have received proper care over the years, making them capable of serving reliably every day. While certain aspects like infotainment and technology might seem dated due to advancements made in twenty years, if cutting-edge tech isn’t essential to you, then the 2008 S-Class may just fit your needs perfectly.
Let’s examine some of its key features and how the 2008 S-Class has performed in terms of reliability since it was launched.
The article centers around the 2008 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, discussing its dependability as well as frequent problems. It also covers essential information to consider when searching for this model in the pre-owned car market.
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: An Overview
The 2008 model is a member of the W221 generation, the fifth in the S-Class’ history. This model was first unveiled at the 2005
Frankfurt Motor Show
, and subsequently went on sale for the 2006 model year. In the US and Canadian markets, however, it wasn’t available until the 2007 model year.
The successor to the fourth-gen W220 model, the W221 represented a departure from it in terms of design. It was larger, with more interior space available, and had a sleeker silhouette. The headlights, which were rounded and bulbous in the W220, were given an update with a pointed, angular design. The rear of the car, meanwhile, takes styling cues from
Maybach
for an even more premium look. The interior also received a substantial update compared to that of the W220, with several plastic elements being replaced by more luxurious materials such as wood, leather, and metal.
The design process of the W221 S-Class involved both Germany and Japan. While the car’s development phase began in 1999, the following year Mercedes’ Tokyo-based Advanced Design Center became involved. The overall styling of the car was, however, penned by a German designer, Gorden Wagener. A prototype version was completed in 2002, several years before the production version would see the light.
The W221 S-Class stayed in production until 2013, at which point it was succeeded by the sixth-generation version, known as the W222, produced up till 2020. Currently, we have the seventh iteration of this model, referred to as the W223, introduced with the 2021 model year.
Engines And Performance
In 2008, the S-Class available in the U.S. came equipped with one of two engine options: a 5.5-liter V8 for the S550 variant or a bi-turbocharged 5.5-liter V12 for the S600 version. This resulted in power outputs of 382 horsepower from the V8 and an impressive 510 horsepower from the V12, which shaved roughly a second off the acceleration time from zero to sixty miles per hour. Gear changes were managed via a 7-speed auto transmission on the V8 models and through a 5-speed auto gearbox on those fitted with the powerful V12 engine.
As anticipated, fuel efficiency wasn’t this vehicle’s forte; the S550 managed only 14 miles per gallon in urban areas and 21 on highways. The S600 performed even poorer with figures of 11 mpg in cities and 17 mpg on open roads. Additionally, in each model, the maximum velocity was digitally capped at 155mph.
Comfort And Tech
In the 2008 model of the S-Class, priority was given to enhancing passenger comfort, ensuring that up to five adults could ride comfortably during extended trips. The vehicle provided generous legroom, measuring 41.9 inches at the front and 42.9 inches in the rear seating area. However, when it came to cargo capacity, though adequate for everyday needs, transporting bulkier objects proved challenging due to the fact that the rear seats were fixed and would not fold flat.
It comes with the COMAND (Cockpit Management And Data System).
infotainment system
, which preceded the current MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system. This earlier iteration received an upgrade when installed in the W221 models, providing a broader range of features. Standard amenities included dual-zone climate control and a power rear sunshade, ensuring maximum comfort during travels.
A variety of entertainment options were provided for passengers, such as an optional TV tuner, a built-in DVD player, and a premium Harman/Kardon sound system featuring 14 speakers (which came standard instead of being offered optionally). Additionally, the Linguatronic voice command feature could be selected, enabling drivers to place calls and set navigation destinations without removing their hands from the steering wheel.
An optional feature offered was a backseat entertainment system, which wasn’t very typical in 2008 and continues to be seen as a luxury element even now. The bundle encompassed dual monitors positioned for rear seating area guests, an extra DVD player, along with control units and buttons allowing separate operation. Additionally, this setup provided two pairs of wireless headphones.
In terms of technology, the S-Class was impressively outfitted for a vehicle from 2008: it offered heated and ventilated seats with an optional memory function, along with “Drive-Dynamic seats” featuring adjustable air cells designed to shape around the passenger’s body, enhancing support when taking turns.
Self-closing doors, a smart key system, and a garage door opener were also offered as additional options. While the
tire pressure
The warning system was a standard feature, but customers had the option to include the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System for additional capabilities. This setup would show precise tire pressure readings and alert the driver with a notification if the vehicle experienced a flat tire.
Purchasing a 2008 S-Class: Concerns, Upkeep, and Cost Analysis
When it comes to pricing, you might find a 2008 S-Class ranging from approximately $7,000 for one with high mileage and lower conditions up to about $12,000 for a vehicle in superior condition with less wear on the odometer.
Luxury vehicles equipped with numerous technological and comfort features often pose a reliability challenge because of their intricate design, which includes many parts that could potentially break down. However, the 2008 S-Class sidesteps this issue; it boasts impressive reliability, receiving minimal customer grievances and experiencing infrequent problems. According to J.D. Power,
Quality and Reliability Rating
With a rating of 88 out of 100, whereas RepairPal’s score stands at 3 out of 5.
There are only 23
NHTSA
There are documented complaints and two recalls associated with this particular model and year. The recalls address possible moisture-related issues in certain lighting systems as well as an error in the fuel pump software. Upon examining the complaint records, however, there isn’t a predominant problem that stands out; instead, the concerns seem evenly spread among various parts of the vehicle.
Issues with the electrical systems accounted for four grievances, making them the most frequently reported concern categorized under one heading by the NHTSA. These concerns encompassed various troubles like malfunctions in remote keys, failures in tire pressure sensors, and wiring defects. Similarly, tire-related difficulties garnered another quartet of complaints; this could be seen positively by prospective buyers of pre-owned vehicles since they might just require replacing the tires to prevent further complications.
Certainly, despite having an excellent reliability record and the utmost attention to detail, the 2008 S-Class is approaching nearly twenty years old. Potential buyers should thoroughly research the specific vehicle they’re considering, ensuring that the maintenance schedule has been adhered to.
followed closely
by the previous owner. However, if you buy a car that has been looked after well and continues to stay on top of its upkeep, you are highly likely to have a good ownership experience.
Sources:
Mercedes-Benz, Autotempest, NHTSA, RepairPal, J.D. Power
Leave a Reply