Since its debut in 2005 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the sedan Mercedes- Benz S-class W221 immediately became popular and was the standard in the class of executive cars worldwide. The car embodies all the possible and incredible desires of the most demanding users. German engineers, designers and designers carefully worked on the model, and having changed it on the conveyor, it had a steady demand and was produced until 2013.

As in the previous version, the 221st was equipped with engines of various sizes, the initial of which was a six-cylinder 235-horsepower diesel engine installed on the S320. And the most powerful was the subsidiary by Mercedes AMG modification of the S65 AMG with a 12-cylinder engine with a double turbine of 612 horsepower. In addition, in the hierarchy of power units were: 3500 cc 306 hp V6 engine; 4.7-liter V8 with 535 hp; V12 with a volume of 5500 cm3 and a power of 517 hp; 544-horsepower 5.5-liter V12 biturbo, which was installed on the S63 AMG.

As a result of restyling in 2009, a version of the S400 Hybrid appeared with a hybrid power plant, consisting of a 3.5-liter engine internal combustion displacement 279 hp and a 20-horsepower electric motor. The latter helps the main unit during acceleration, and during braking it works as a generator. In addition, this version of the S-Class is equipped with a stop-start system that reduces fuel consumption. big sedan up to some 7.7 l / 100km.

Chassis and exterior of the Mercedes Benz S-class W221 photo

Automatic transmission was offered in two versions - 5 and 7-speed. There are legends about the convenience and softness of the car's suspension. It has a special hydro-mechanical system capable of independently choosing the highest level of running gear comfort for various conditions traffic and depending on the condition of the roadway.

Mercedes-Benz S-class and traditionally has two versions of the sedan body: regular and long. Despite some similarities in the design of the 221st with BMW competitor 7 series, especially the trunk lid, this Mercedes looks great and recognizable. His appearance is both elegant and brutal, and the coefficient aerodynamic drag is 0.26-0.28 Cx, which is high rate for such a large sedan. The body is made of high-strength types of steel and aluminum.

Interior

In the cabin of the W221, in addition to luxurious finishes made of expensive materials, advanced technical developments. The base is equipped with heated and ventilated seats, electric steering wheel and seat adjustments, cutting-edge multimedia and all kinds of control systems. Optionally, systems such as night vision or active cruise control are offered. The first one leads to Windshield data on the current speed, fuel consumption, the state of the main components and assemblies, and the second, if necessary, is able to stop the car itself.

Electronics

In addition, the 221 S-Class is equipped with many advanced security systems: this is control road markings and zones of invisibility; and the option to detect road signs; and a headlight correction system that determines the distance to oncoming cars and prevents them from being blinded; and a function that detects the degree of driver fatigue and warns him about it.

Attention! The following text is just a discussion on the topic, “How cool would it be if ...”, nothing more. We DO NOT recommend buying an old heavily used premium car. There are many reasons for this: relative unreliability modern cars(relative to the same W140), excessively expensive service(not even at the dealer), extremely high operating costs (how much prestigious sedan it eats gasoline ... and it also has much more expensive oil in the engine and air in the wheels))), yes, plus the crisis has come, and, taking supported, 4, 5, 6, 7 summer car you run the risk of getting into debt if your own funds are not enough. In general, some disorders. But in any barrel of tar, a spoonful of honey can lurk, which will sweeten the pill. And in general, if you really want, then you can!

If you are thinking big luxury sedan, and even in a dream this obsession does not give rest, do not be afraid of everyday tests by Moscow or any other courtyards of large Russian cities or their traffic jams, you are not very afraid of fuel prices, then your cherished goal may be to buy a well-defined, proven himself as an expert in all the best for the not poor gentlemen, .

Briefly about the main

Fifth generation of executive cars Mercedes-Benz produced under name Mercedes-Benz S-class. W221 was introduced on Frankfurt Motor Show in 2005 and produced until 2013. In 2009, a small restyling took place. When restyling received hybrid version, which we will not talk about today, since it is rare in our area, an updated three-liter gasoline V6 with 231 hp. and upgraded 6- and 8-cylinder diesel engines.

External restyling could be distinguished by upgraded headlights with LED strips, LED rear lights, in place of the previous one there is a more strict front bumper with installed LED DRLs and new exhaust pipes.

And so, if you have set aside the N-th amount of money, have decided on the class of the car, in our case it is a prestigious luxury class, but you cannot decide which model to give preference to, let me give you some tips and explanations that may tip your scales in side of the S-Class.

If the search has not yet begun, then we will focus more attention at this stage, namely, what year and for what amount is it desirable to purchase the S-Class W221? By going to Auto.ru, typing in the search and finding the desired one, you will be amazed at the democratic prices of cars from the first years of production, 2006-2007. From 700,000 rubles and more, but the price will not soar sharply to unprecedented heights, but will gradually increase, gradually approaching 1,000 .000 rubles.

In this price range, you will not meet any S-classes, and petrol 350s and 450s with a 4.7-liter engine with 340 hp. and even 600 Long! Almost all of these cars are sold by various private car dealerships with a dubious reputation, and if you are lucky enough to find an adequate “not beaten, not beautiful” option among them, then consider that you have won the jackpot, or found a golden needle in a haystack. Therefore, we skip all these options for the good of health.

In general, we do not recommend buying a pre-styling Mercedes- Benz S Class, and even the car that is more than 4-5 years old. The S-Class sometimes breaks down no less than budget cars(depending on operation), and the cost per old car new spare parts are just “space”. In other words, the car must be at least 2010, and such copies cost at least 1,700,000-1,800,000 rubles, you have to pay for the pleasure.

Why buy used S-Class? Basically, it seems to me, in order to raise your status in front of others, the level of comfort that this chic sedan gives, and thirdly, for pleasure, also plays an important role. The last point is very important. It is he who will allow you not to give away your last pants during the operation of a used S-Class. You should enjoy driving it, but not get attached to this car. Bought, traveled a year, maybe a little more and sold. Thus, you will save yourself 80% of a big headache and big expenses.

So why S-class? And specifically, why W221? 5 reasons why.

Reason #1 - It may not be a car with perfect handling and drive, but it is definitely a car with perfect comfort!

One word... Airmatic. Believe me, there is almost no prestigious model in this price category will not be able to compare with Mercedes, since the S-Class rides can neither drive nor. Comfort is above all! True, something had to be sacrificed, the W221 does not handle as well as the E65 7 Series, D3 Audi A8 or even the Volkswagen Phaeton. But it is unlikely that it will occur to you to press the gas pedal to the floor and wind circles on the W221 on racing track aka .

But in terms of comfort, you will not find best solution you just can't find it.

Reason #2 - It may be old, but it has a lot of cool technology.

After all, think about it: the W221 S-Class was shown back in 2005 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and even then such things as an infrared night vision system (Night View Assist), a pre-collision safety system (which should work even on a used car) ), a rearview camera, heated/cooled seats, a TV, Airmatic air suspension, adaptive bi-xenon headlights and of course the good old Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system. Well, there are a huge number of systems to describe which five A4 pages are not enough.

Mercedes 221 (W211 body): photo, car price

September 2005 was the starting point for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. It has become the benchmark for all luxury cars in the world. And this is not casual, German automotive specialists did a good job on it.

The line has new modifications from S300 Long to S600 Long. Basic basic model became the S350. Gearboxes are only automated, with five and seven gears. There are several types of engines to choose from, from four-cylinder two hundred and four strong, to eight-cylinder with a power of 517 hp. (Models with extended power options are also available).

This car embodied all the possible and impossible fantasies of the most sophisticated motorists. Starting from the control system and ending with the salon, everything here is done for people. Elite class, you can't argue with that.

Acceleration to hundreds in less than 5.5 seconds, BrakeAssistPlus system (brake force distribution from several parameters), NightViewAssist (night vision to help the driver), control of auto systems through convenient COMAND. In general, if you do not start reading the instructions, you can not learn a lot about the buttons and functions that the car is practically stuffed with. Particularly interesting and pleasant is the function of massage on chairs, with several modes.

Design new Mercedes 221 has become much more attractive, apparently a tribute to fashion, swift and solid. At high speeds, nothing will disturb the silence in the cabin, even the wind, the ticking of the clock will be the loudest.

Those who decide to buy a car of this Mercedes line, then actually understand that the purchase is worth it. No other car becomes as beloved as the Mercedes S-Class in the back of the W221.

executive sedan Mercedes-Benz S-Class in each generation remained the benchmark of the global automotive industry. Every generation Mercedes-Benz models The S-Class showcased new technologies that were later introduced into production by others. automotive manufacturers. In this article we will talk about the past generation executive sedan Mercedes-Benz S-Class in the back of W221. To date, many in Russian Federation eyeing used copies of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221. Here we give the main problems that are inherent in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 Pre-Owned.

History of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221

The generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 executive sedan has grown significantly compared to the w220 body generation. The generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 received an improved air suspension system, more dynamics and more comfort in the cabin. base motor For this generation was a 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with a capacity of 231 Horsepower. In the USA, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 was very popular, used mainly as a driver's car. But in Russian Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 was most often bought to transport VIPs. Russian owner Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 most often sat on the back sofa. Together with the new generation of Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 German automobile concern introduced in 2005 and new line motors and transmissions. Then there were latest motors M272 and M273 series, as well as seven-speed automatic transmissions.

Experts believe that with release of Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 this model has a lot of improvements. body received paintwork much best quality. The electrical systems and air suspension have been extensively redesigned to improve life cycle. Despite the fact that the minimum cost of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 model on the secondary Russian automotive market dropped to cost new Kia Rio, used copies look dignified and solid. However Russian buyers more often they buy a new budget foreign car than a used Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221. It's connected with expensive repairs Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 models.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 - specifications

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 has a choice of two automatic transmissions: 5 - or 7-speed. Torque can be transferred to rear axle or the car can be all-wheel drive. Peace and quiet in the cabin is provided by a multi-link, fully independent suspension- in richer versions additionally armed with pneumatics. Although the car has not been tested in Euro NCAP crash tests, but the equipment available means a high level of safety. The most impressive gadget is the Pre-Safe system, which tightens the seat belts before a collision, closes windows, adjusts seats appropriately, and further elevates braking force in order to minimize the consequences of a collision.

Specifications Mercedes S-class W221

Faults

Those who have dealt with previous generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220 is well known for being very reliable. The same can be said about the W221. Most problems during operation are caused by the 7-speed automatic transmission gears. There are also problems with damage to the valve body and torque converter.

The compressor responsible for the proper functioning of the air suspension also does not shine with stable operation. Before buying, it is worth checking whether it appears when high speed vibration on the steering wheel - this may be the first sign of a power steering failure. Often the fault for this lies with damaged suspension components, and sometimes simply due to worn tires- this needs to be checked.

The most a big problem this model is the output of standing electronics. Too many gadgets various systems make travel easier and more enjoyable, but also increase the risk of breakdowns. There are known cases of disappearance of the indications of the main screen, showing the speedometer with the control group. Navigation can sometimes work, when not. CD changer, inflatable seats, electric lockable sunroof and backdoor- other weak spots this model.

Sometimes there are problems with the air conditioner. Luckily, a very dirty blower is a common source of this problem. Air ducts and air filter must be properly cleaned and then everything works properly.

If you want to buy used Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221, then I advise you not to take the most sophisticated specimens, otherwise you can spend tens of thousands of euros on repairs. I advise you to stay away from US imports (including the S550) as most of them have been in serious accidents. Unfortunately, even if you really find nice car sooner or later something will have to be fixed. Spare parts prices are very high.

The biggest problem, however, is to find professional service, users who have purchased cars in showrooms often complain about the problems of a long time to determine the sources of faults and lengthy repairs. Otherwise, apart from quite high cost operating Mercedes The S-class has practically no serious drawbacks. Comfortable suspension, good ride and handling, high performance, Very rich equipment- it's really impressive.

Engines.

Petrol:

• V6 3.5L (272-306 HP) S350, S350 BlueEFFICIENCY;
• V6 3.5 L (279 + 20 hp) S400 Hybrid;
• V8 4.7 L (340-435 hp) S450, S500 BlueEFFICIENCY;
• V8 5.5 L (388-544 hp), S500, S63 AMG;
• V8 6.2 l (525 hp) AMG S63;
• V12 5.5 L bi-turbo (517 hp) S600;
• V12 6.0 l bi-turbo (612 hp) AMG S65.

Diesel:

• R4 2.1 L (204 hp) S250 CDI;
• V6 3.0L (235-258 HP) S320 CDI, S350 CDI, S350 BlueTEC;
• V8 4.0 L (320 hp) CDI S420, S450 CDI.

There are so many versions of the S-Class that it's hard to pick just one in particular. However, if you look closely, it turns out that there are much fewer engines than symbolic designations of modifications. But what to choose?

In Europe, traditionally the most popular were diesel versions. If the consumption of 15 liters of diesel fuel per 100 km is acceptable for you, then you can safely choose a 4-liter diesel V8. For more economical ones, a less voracious 3-liter V6 CDI is suitable, which, when driving in traffic jams, fits into 12-13 l / 100 km. The base diesel appeared quite late, so there are very few copies on the market with such an engine. And by the way, the R4 2.1L does surprisingly well with huge sedan and at the same time consumes little fuel.

However, it must be remembered that big engine this is not only frequent visits to gas stations, but also more expensive repairs and maintenance. In the end, replacing 8 nozzles will require more money than 6. Although diesel units and quite durable, but most cars already have significant mileage, and equipment, as you know, does not last forever. Most often, I demand attention to nozzles and a turbocharger, and their repair is not cheap. There are also oil leaks. Just in case, it is better to have a couple of thousand dollars in reserve. And after 200,000 km, the timing chain can stretch.

If you need Mercedes S class, primarily for trips from home to the office and back, and most of the time traffic jams will take away, then be prepared for problems with the particulate filter.

Do you think that diesel engine Is that indecent on a car like this? Then your attention is provided with a richer spectrum gasoline engines. It doesn't matter which one you choose. Everyone handles this heavy machine just fine.

Power units running on more noble fuels are much more reliable and, as a rule, have much lower mileage. But when choosing, you still need to be careful. Before restyling in gasoline engines defective sprockets were used on balance shafts- Broken and worn teeth. To fix the problem, an expensive complex repair, including, among other things, the replacement of the timing chain.

Problematic sprockets of the balance shaft of petrol V6 and V8. The cost of repairs is about $4,000.

Fuel consumption? A lot depends on driving style. But don't even count on less than 15 liters in the city. Top versions of AMG, S500 and S600 easily overcome the milestone of 30 liters per 100 km.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 body problems

In used copies of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221, traces of corrosion can only be found in places where the paint is chipped - in doorways, on the hood and on the edges of the wings. Bi-xenon headlights dim too often. On Russian roads in used specimens, fastenings of lockers and anthers quickly break down. You may also come across specimens in which rear arches and on the bottom peeled off the soundproofing coating. The hood hinges are made of aluminium. However, in Russian climatic conditions they can quickly corrode. The repair of the hood hinges must be treated with great attention. New hood costs about 100,000 rubles.

Interior problems Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221

When inspecting a used copy of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221, the first thing to check is the drainage under the windshield. There are a lot of electronic control units in this place that can fail due to clogged drainage. Trapeze front wipers can also often turn sour. The heating system fan of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 has a resource of no more than six to eight years. The climate control pneumatic valve system for the rear sofa is located in a niche front wheel. From this, it often turns sour due to moisture. System automatic closers doors can fail with age. If it doesn't work a few times, then don't worry. This is normal for used copies of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221.

Suspension problems Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221

On a normal Mercedes-Benz versions S-Class W221 suspension has too much margin of safety. The fact is that German manufacturers installed exactly the same suspension on armored versions of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221. Pneumatic system suspension has a resource of about 5 years. The cost of restoring the air suspension on one wheel is 120,000 rubles. The resource of brake pads is usually no more than 20,000 kilometers. The greater the weight of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 version, the faster the brake pads wear out.

Technical features.

The German sedan must carry its passengers in the most comfortable conditions, and therefore mechanical box transmission was not offered. The Mercedes S-Class W221 was equipped with a 5 or 7-speed automatic transmission.

As befits an F-segment sedan, power is sent to the rear axle or to all wheels. Silence and tranquility in the cabin is provided by a fully independent multi-link suspension. The richer equipment is used air suspension. Thanks to her, the car literally soars above the road surface.

For faulty suspension strut Airmatic air suspension you have to pay 1200 dollars.

Despite the fact that the limousine has not been tested in crash tests by EuroNCAP, the equipment itself testifies to high level security. Most Impressive pre-safe system. Moments before a potential collision, it retracts the belts, closes the windows, brings the seats into a safe position and starts braking to minimize the consequences of an accident.

Modifications Mercedes S-class W221

Mercedes S 300 W221

Mercedes S 350 W221

Mercedes S 350 W221

Mercedes S 350 4MATIC W221

Mercedes S 350 L 4MATIC W221

Conclusion.

If you want to buy a well-maintained Mercedes S-Class W221, then avoid cheap copies, otherwise be prepared to spend thousands of dollars on repairs. Stay away from sedans imported from the US because most of them have been in accidents. But even if you find a good car, sooner or later you will have to solve certain problems. And the prices for spare parts are very high.

The biggest problem is finding a professional service center. Even authorized services do not always quickly identify and eliminate the source of the malfunction. But apart from high maintenance costs and annoying crashes, there are no more serious flaws in the Mercedes S-Class. Comfortable suspension, good driving performance, very rich equipment - one can talk endlessly about the merits of a luxurious limousine.

Executive mercedes-benz sedan S-Class W221 has always been part of the elite of the global automotive industry. All generations of the famous car were samples advanced technologies, later appearing on machines from other manufacturers. Next, we will talk about typical problems used Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221.

Model history

A new generation of sedan in the back of the W221 appeared on the market with an unspoken motto: over size, dynamics, comfort. The base engine for it was a three-liter gasoline "six" with a capacity of 231 hp.

According to experts, the generation in the back of the W221 is in many ways superior to its predecessors: the air suspension resource has increased and electrical systems, the paintwork has become more resistant. Many used copies are in very good condition. However, despite this, the eyes of motorists are increasingly directed to new budget foreign cars, located with the legendary sedan in the same price range. The reason for this is clear - expensive repairs german car not without weaknesses.

Typical body faults

Most problem areas The “older” Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 can only be found in places where the paint is chipped: on the hood, in doorways and on the edges of the wings. Some cars on the bottom and rear arches sometimes find completely “killed” sound insulation. Often, aluminum hood hinges do not withstand the harsh realities of the Russian climate, which begin to corrode. Repair of this unit for an inattentive buyer can cost a pretty penny, since the cost of a new hood reaches 100 thousand rubles.

Weak spots in the cabin

When inspecting a used Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221, you first need to carefully inspect the drainage under the windshield. Here are located electrical blocks controls, so a clogged drain may cause them to malfunction. There are likely problems with door closers, which over time begin to perform their functions once in a while. Therefore, their periodic failure becomes a common thing.

Trapezoids can often hang on the front wipers. Instances older than 8 years require a mandatory check of the condition of the heating fan, since it rarely withstands more than this period. There are also claims to climate control for rear passengers. Its pneumatic valve system is located in the front wheel niche, so it can start to freeze due to high humidity.

Suspension problems

Even in the usual versions of the executive sedan, the suspension is made to last. In terms of safety margin, it is not inferior to armored counterparts. The air suspension resource is about 5 years. Repair of the system on one wheel is comparable to the cost of a used Russian passenger car - about 120 thousand rubles. brake pads, as a rule, withstand no more than 20 thousand km. At the same time, the greater the weight of the car, the faster their wear occurs.

Engine and transmission problems

The transmission of rear-wheel drive versions of the sedan usually causes little criticism, which can not be said about front-wheel drive copies. Thanks to their structural features they have certain problems. intermediate shaft passes through the crankcase power plant and if the bearings fail, it can damage the motor. Vehicles with powerful motor V12s have problems with automatics, which rarely live up to 120 thousand kilometers. Therefore, the most successful power unit worth mentioning is the restyled V6 engine of the M276 series.