What are the most common problems with the Mercedes-Benz W222 S-Class?

Airmatic or Magic Body Control strut leaks (particularly front) (Severity: high). 9G-Tronic mechatronic unit software issues and rough shifting (Severity: medium). M278 V8 timing chain cover oil leak (Severity: medium). Coolant leak from turbo coolant pipes (M278) (Severity: medium). COMAND/MBUX display screen delamination (Severity: low)

What engines were available in the W222 S-Class?

The W222 S-Class was available with the following engines: M276 3.0L V6 Biturbo (S450/S400), M278 4.7L V8 Biturbo (S550), M177 4.0L V8 Biturbo (S63 AMG), M279 6.0L V12 Biturbo (S600/S65 AMG), M256 3.0L I6 Turbo + EQ Boost (S500, facelift), OM656 2.9L I6 Diesel (S350d).

sedan · 2014–2020

W222

Q: How reliable is the Mercedes-Benz W222 S-Class?

The W222 S-Class (2014–2020) has a reliability rating of "good" based on Beach Benz's 35 years of service experience. The W222 is an outstanding S-Class. Most issues we see stem from neglected maintenance intervals. Magic Body Control cars need a shop with proper Star Diagnostic access for calibration -- we handle this routinely. These are a joy to service.

Q: What is the maintenance schedule for the W222 S-Class?

Engine oil & filter (full synthetic): Every 10,000 miles. Transmission fluid service: Every 40,000 miles. Airmatic/Magic Body Control inspection: Every 30,000 miles. Brake fluid flush: Every 2 years / 20,000 miles

S-Class

Reliability: Good

6 engines5 known issues

Overview

The W222 S-Class was a landmark in automotive technology, debuting Magic Body Control with road-scanning cameras, a fully digital instrument cluster, and Burmester 3D surround sound. It set the standard for luxury sedans with technology that competitors took years to match. The S63 and S65 AMG variants delivered supercar performance wrapped in supreme comfort.

Engines & Transmissions

Engine Options

M276 3.0L V6 Biturbo (S450/S400)
M278 4.7L V8 Biturbo (S550)
M177 4.0L V8 Biturbo (S63 AMG)
M279 6.0L V12 Biturbo (S600/S65 AMG)
M256 3.0L I6 Turbo + EQ Boost (S500, facelift)
OM656 2.9L I6 Diesel (S350d)

Transmissions

722.9 7G-Tronic Plus
9G-Tronic (725.0)

Common Problems

Known issues reported across the W222 production run, ordered by severity. These are based on our direct experience servicing these vehicles over 35 years.

Airmatic or Magic Body Control strut leaks (particularly front)

High severity

→

9G-Tronic mechatronic unit software issues and rough shifting

Medium severity

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M278 V8 timing chain cover oil leak

Medium severity

→

Coolant leak from turbo coolant pipes (M278)

Medium severity

→

COMAND/MBUX display screen delamination

Low severity

→

Maintenance Highlights

Key service intervals for the W222. These are based on our recommended schedule for Southern California driving conditions, which may differ from factory-specified intervals.

Engine oil & filter (full synthetic)

Every 10,000 miles

Transmission fluid service

Every 40,000 miles

Airmatic/Magic Body Control inspection

Every 30,000 miles

Brake fluid flush

Every 2 years / 20,000 miles

Reliability Assessment

Good Reliability

Based on 35 years of service data at Beach Benz

PoorFairGoodExcellent

Beach Benz Experience

From Our Technicians

“The W222 is an outstanding S-Class. Most issues we see stem from neglected maintenance intervals. Magic Body Control cars need a shop with proper Star Diagnostic access for calibration -- we handle this routinely. These are a joy to service.”

— Beach Benz service team · 35+ years of Mercedes-Benz specialization

W222 Specialist

Your W222 deserves a specialist.

Factory diagnostics. OEM parts. 35 years of Mercedes-Benz expertise. Whether it's a routine service or a complex repair, Beach Benz has your W222 S-Class covered.

Call (714) 842-9816 Call (714) 842-9816