The Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG represents a significant era in luxury performance sedans. As a content creator for mercedesbenzxentrysoftwaresubscription.store, and an experienced auto repair professional, I’ve had the opportunity to examine a W220 S55 AMG firsthand, revealing both its strengths and some common issues that enthusiasts and owners might encounter. This exploration provides valuable insights for anyone interested in the Mercedes S55, from potential buyers to current owners seeking to maintain or repair their vehicles.
This particular S55 AMG has likely been sitting for an extended period, even before it came into my possession a few months ago. Despite this, stored indoors, it presented itself remarkably well when I recently had the chance to assess it. During a test drive to my workshop, the car ran smoothly and offered a comfortable ride, with both the air conditioning and heating systems functioning correctly. Many of the car’s features operated as expected, highlighting the inherent quality and engineering of the Mercedes S-Class. However, like any vehicle of this age, particularly a performance model like the S55 AMG, there were a few areas requiring attention.
One of the first issues I noted was with the DVD-based navigation system. It appeared unable to read the map media, suggesting a potential problem with the laser lens, weakened laser optics, or the disc itself. Interestingly, the navigation media was the original disc that came with the vehicle. For someone familiar with Mercedes systems, like myself, a potential quick fix could involve swapping in a known working navigation processor. I even have a W211 navigation processor in my parts inventory that could be tested if acquiring this S55 AMG were to proceed.
Alt text: Mercedes-Benz W220 S-Class instrument cluster displaying the odometer with dashes, indicating a potential coding or communication issue within the vehicle’s electronic systems.
Another minor inconvenience was the Alpine 6-disc CD changer, which refused to release the magazine. Upon inspection, it was clear that a disc was loaded in the first slot, but the tray mechanism seemed to be malfunctioning, preventing ejection. These types of issues are not uncommon in older vehicles with complex electronics and mechanical components.
Moving beyond infotainment, I observed a problem with the soft-close doors. Initially functional, they had ceased working. My initial suspicion fell on a blown fuse related to the Pneumatic System Equipment (PSE) pump, a common culprit in Mercedes-Benz systems controlling features like soft-close doors and central locking. While I hadn’t yet investigated the fuse box, PSE-related issues are frequently traced back to fuse problems or air leaks within the pneumatic lines.
My philosophy when it comes to vehicle maintenance, especially with a prestigious model like the Mercedes S55 AMG, is to preserve the original equipment whenever possible. While modern aftermarket head units offer advanced features, I believe in maintaining the OEM integrity of these vehicles. For instance, even though the S55’s display has a small gray area, my preference would be to source an original replacement display rather than opting for a complete head unit swap. The fact that the door locks and soft-close system failed simultaneously strongly points to a central PSE issue, reinforcing the need to check fuses and investigate potential leaks in the pneumatic system.
The previous owner, from whom I acquired the S55 AMG, informed me about a pre-existing issue with the instrument cluster. When he purchased the car, the odometer was displaying “——,” and he was unaware of certain options, such as DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control. This cluster malfunction also prevented access to the distance display and incorrectly coded the telematics generation to D2B instead of the correct MOST standard for this model. Consequently, the TEL, NAV, and AUDIO displays showed only “—,” suggesting a lack of initialization.
The seller had been told that the cluster “just needed to be programmed” by a dealer or specialist. However, the fact that the issue persisted suggested that a simple programming fix was not the solution. It’s likely the previous owner had already consulted a Mercedes-Benz dealer and possibly other repair shops, only to be met with the recommendation of a costly cluster replacement, deemed too complex or expensive to simply reprogram.
Alt text: Interior view of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220, highlighting the DISTRONIC distance control buttons located near the gear shifter, indicating the presence of this advanced driver-assistance system.
However, utilizing my diagnostic expertise and tools, I was able to “program” (more accurately, code) the instrument cluster to the Drive Authorization System. As anticipated, this action successfully retrieved the odometer data directly from the Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS). Furthermore, I corrected the telematics coding to MOST, enabled DISTRONIC to “Present,” and activated Dynamic Seats. Following this coding, all menus and display functions within the instrument cluster were restored to proper operation. This successful diagnosis and repair underscores the importance of specialized knowledge and equipment when dealing with advanced automotive systems like those found in the Mercedes S55 AMG.
Having previously owned a W221 S600 with standard DISTRONIC PLUS, I was initially surprised to find DISTRONIC controls in this W220 S55 AMG, especially given the missing protective covering on the grille, which usually houses the DISTRONIC sensors. Reviewing the CarFax report revealed a prior collision with a deer, which likely explained both the grille damage and the presence of DISTRONIC, an option perhaps not initially apparent to the previous owner due to the instrument cluster issue.
One unusual aspect I noted was that the Mercedes S55 AMG was fitted with the same size tires on all four wheels. While the correct setup typically involves staggered tire sizes for optimal handling and traction, this S55 had 245s all around. Surprisingly, even with this non-standard configuration, the car exhibited no noticeable traction problems. In fact, the robust performance suggested the possibility of an ECU tune, enhancing engine output. However, without the owner’s explicit request, I refrained from reading the ECU to confirm this suspicion.
The powerful acceleration and responsiveness of the S55 AMG, coupled with the distinctive sound of its AMG V8 Kompressor engine, led me to further investigate potential performance modifications. While no external modifications were immediately apparent, a closer inspection underneath the vehicle could reveal aftermarket exhaust components or a modified rear differential. I also speculated about the presence of a Limited Slip Differential (LSD). Unlike my S600, which relies on Electronic Stability Program (ESP) to manage wheel spin by braking the spinning wheel, the S55 AMG seemed to deliver power seamlessly to the pavement without noticeable ESP intervention. This behavior is more characteristic of a vehicle equipped with an LSD. With my diagnostic system (DAS) connected, I observed that the supercharger clutch remained engaged at all times, further fueling my suspicion of a fixed supercharger pulley modification, a common performance upgrade in these models. Having driven a CLS55 AMG with a fixed pulley, I recognized the increased low-end torque and aggressive power delivery, yet this S55 AMG managed to put the power down effectively without excessive wheelspin, further hinting at an LSD.
Visually inspecting the bodywork, I couldn’t detect any signs of repaint on the rear panels or doors. Expert refinishing often leaves telltale signs, particularly with model designation emblems, which are rarely reinstalled in their exact original positions after panel work. However, I suspected that the hood and front fenders had been repainted following the deer collision. Despite this, the “V8 Kompressor” lettering appeared original, or at least meticulously reapplied, suggesting a high standard of repair work.
Alt text: Close-up of a Mercedes-Benz W220 S-Class hood latch mechanism, illustrating a common area that may require lubrication or adjustment for smooth and reliable operation.
The panel gaps between the hood and front fenders exhibited slight variations but were within acceptable limits and easily adjustable. The only current body-related inconvenience was a sticky passenger-side hood latch. The interior hood release failed to fully disengage the passenger side latch unless someone manually lifted the hood while the release was pulled. Lubrication had not resolved the issue, suggesting a minor misalignment. However, given that this was not yet my vehicle, I deferred a more detailed investigation and adjustment.
In conclusion, this Mercedes S55 AMG presents itself as a powerful and luxurious sedan with some minor, typical age-related issues. Its strong performance hints at potential ECU tuning and mechanical upgrades like a fixed supercharger pulley and possibly an LSD. Addressing the navigation, CD changer, soft-close doors, and hood latch would bring this S55 AMG back to its full potential. For enthusiasts and those familiar with the W220 platform, these are all manageable tasks, making this Mercedes S55 AMG a compelling project or a rewarding purchase for someone seeking a high-performance luxury sedan with character and untapped potential.
