2004 Mercedes Benz S430

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Electrical system7
2. Suspension4
3. Power train4
4. Structure2
5. Vehicle speed control2
6. Latches/locks/linkages1
7. Service brakes1
8. Steering1
9. Unknown or other1
10. Visibility1

Latest complaints

• Aug 18, 2022MD78,000 mi
  Electrical system

  The contact owns a 2004 Mercedes-Benz S430. The contact stated that the electric conductor from the blower motor to the fuse holder overheated and melted the fuse. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V227000 (Electrical System). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 78,000.

• Dec 17, 2019NM
  Unknown or other

  If the trunk lid IS manually lifted, it may not remain in the up position and could cause injury if it comes down while someone IS reaching into the trunk. This happened to me several times.

• Sep 25, 2019CA188,872 mi
  Exterior lighting
  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz S430. Due to inadequate illumination of the instrument cluster, the contact was not able to read the gauges and indicators. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the fuse was replaced for the gauges, but the instrument cluster still was not…

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz S430. Due to inadequate illumination of the instrument cluster, the contact was not able to read the gauges and indicators. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the fuse was replaced for the gauges, but the instrument cluster still was not illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer for diagnostic testing or repairs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 188,872.

• Sep 26, 2017VA175,000 mi
  Electrical system

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz S430. While starting the vehicle, the instrument cluster did not illuminate and the screen was dark. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was notified and informed the contact that the vin was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was 175,000.

• Mar 15, 2017CA100,000 mi
  Electronic stability control (esc) · Suspension · Vehicle speed control

  While driving airmatic strut snapped him half on the freeway. Whole car dropped and had to tow vehicle to shop. Replaced the airmatic strut and now ABS sensor came on and doesnt go away. Replaced sensor and still wont go away so now I lost cruise control, brakes weird, and lost esp control with heavy steering. Common issue on this vehicle with the airmatic suspension.

• Mar 15, 2017CA98,000 mi
  Engine · Power train · Service brakes

  Car stuck on park, wont release gear due to faulty plastic safety feature that cracks over time due to inferior material. Have to replace whole gear box or remove safety pin which can cause an accident since lever will shift whitout pressing brake or ignition on.

• Jul 6, 2016TX
  Electrical system · Suspension
  This vehicle often drops lower, while in motion. This IS hazardous! I have had this airmatic air suspension system repaired three times on this vehicle within the last three years, and it appears this IS one problem that mercedes benz refuses to correct. In my last S430, I had the same issue, and…

  This vehicle often drops lower, while in motion. This IS hazardous! I have had this airmatic air suspension system repaired three times on this vehicle within the last three years, and it appears this IS one problem that mercedes benz refuses to correct. In my last S430, I had the same issue, and had to pay huge amounts to fix the problems. I feel no one IS doing anything to get mercedes benz to fix this ongoing safety issue. I will like nhtsa to get mercedes benz to take responsibility for these ongoing defects.

• Jun 13, 2016NJ90 mi
  Electrical system
  My instrument control panel backlighting experienced an electrical malfunction resulting in the failure to illuminate the gauges. the condition was diagnosed by my independent mechanic on 06/06/16. in doing so he informed me of recall campaign number 06v-028. I was told that the remedy IS for the…

  My instrument control panel backlighting experienced an electrical malfunction resulting in the failure to illuminate the gauges. the condition was diagnosed by my independent mechanic on 06/06/16. in doing so he informed me of recall campaign number 06v-028. I was told that the remedy IS for the manufacturer to replace the cluster module free of charge and that I would need to call mercedes benz corporate to schedule a replacement. I called mercedes and spoke with eric at ext 7806 without any satisfaction at all. as a matter of fact, he discouraged me from escalating my call to his boss for 10 minutes before I became irate and demanded to speak with a manager. at that point I spoke with case manager joe from ext 6299. I was told that it was corporate policy to not give out their last names. after lenghtly verbal sparring that didn't amount to any satisfaction, I was told the campaign expired in 2013. Joe said he could offer me some assistance if I wanted to purchase a new mercedes. (Seriously?) I then called the us department of transportation national highway traffic safety administration and got a different campaign assessment. I was told that the campaign expired 10 years from the ruling date of 2006. in this case, that would mean the campaign would end in 2016. with that said, I have no idea where the 2013 expiration date came from. with that being said, I feel the need to make this complaint in hopes of getting to the bottom of this conflicting information. I was told that I should take it to a mb dealership for diagnosis at my cost, followed by a replacement at my cost as well. customer service was very curt and didn't attempt to care about my plight not even slightly. I'm taking this measure as I cant afford to incur this cost from a mb dealership. btw, the car was in motion on a highway during a long trip when this occurred. Very frightening!

• May 25, 2016CA120,000 mi
  Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz S430. While driving at approximately 40 mph, the instrument panel lighting failed to illuminate. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the instrument panel control module failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vin…

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz S430. While driving at approximately 40 mph, the instrument panel lighting failed to illuminate. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the instrument panel control module failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 06v028000 (interior lighting). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.

• Feb 18, 2016IL
  Latches/locks/linkages
  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes benz S430. The contact stated that an abnormal noise emitted from the trunk of the vehicle and the lid failed to latch securely. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was discovered that nhtsa campaign number: 04v285000…

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes benz S430. The contact stated that an abnormal noise emitted from the trunk of the vehicle and the lid failed to latch securely. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was discovered that nhtsa campaign number: 04v285000 (latches/locks/linkages) was related to the failure but the vin was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.

• Jan 9, 2015WV173,000 mi
  Electrical system

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes benz S430. The contact stated that while driving 40 mph, the stop and too low warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 173,000 .

• Aug 12, 2013MD29,066 mi
  Electrical system · Steering · Structure · Suspension
  I purchased a certified pre-owned 2004 mercedes benz s430-4matic in march 2007, after retiring. I also brought an extended warranty costing over $3000 dollars. I have returned this vehicle to a mercedes benz dealership for repairs over approximately 27 times since purchasing the vehicle. the…

  I purchased a certified pre-owned 2004 mercedes benz s430-4matic in march 2007, after retiring. I also brought an extended warranty costing over $3000 dollars. I have returned this vehicle to a mercedes benz dealership for repairs over approximately 27 times since purchasing the vehicle. the problems include the electrical system (door locks); trunk lid lock, suspension system, tire pressure sensors, engine and engine cooling system (air conditioning system will only dispense cold air at 55 degrees and lower) and most recently the radio and navigation system are failing. now that the warranties on the vehicle have expired the dealership will not repair the above problems under warranty. I filed a complaint with mercedes benz USA and I'm waiting for a decision regarding the repairs totaling over $4700.00. *tr

• Jun 6, 2012VA28,000 mi
  Power train
  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes benz S430. The contact stated that the vehicle jerked while changing gears. The vehicle would also unexpectedly accelerate and decelerate. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer and the contact was informed that the failure was due to a software…

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes benz S430. The contact stated that the vehicle jerked while changing gears. The vehicle would also unexpectedly accelerate and decelerate. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer and the contact was informed that the failure was due to a software malfunction within the valve body of the transmission. The failure occurred at various speeds. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure continued to occur and the check engine light began to illuminate on the instrument panel. The vehicle was then taken to an independent repair shop and the software was repaired. The failure eventually recurred. The vehicle was not taken back for additional repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 28,000. The vin was unavailable.

• May 17, 2012IL70,000 mi
  Fuel/propulsion system · Power train · Vehicle speed control

  While changing gears from 1ST to 2ND gear vehicle shifted harshly and entered into a limp mode. once at a certified mechanic the problem was discovered to be a conductor plate and valve body which has been discovered to be defective on most vehicles with 6 speed transmission and needs to be replaced. *tr

• Feb 24, 2012MA59,900 mi
  Suspension

  Air suspension failed due to cracks in the top of the front struts. This lead to loss of air pressure, overload and failure of the air compressor. The vehicle IS unsafe to drive as the front of the car could no longer be safely supported by the suspension. *tr

• Jul 8, 2011MS90,000 mi
  Power train › Manual transmission

  Transmission valve body need replacement after entire transmission was replaced @ 50,000 miles. *tr

• Mar 1, 2010FL60,000 mi
  Visibility

  The outside right hand mirror has discolored making it difficult to see to cars in back. *Tr

• Jun 22, 2009NY60,000 mi
  Structure › Body › Hood

  Tl*the contact owns a 2004 mercedes benz S430. the dealer stated that rain water has been leaking into the front of the vehicle, which caused electrical and computer failures. a leak IS present underneath the hood and water IS accumulating near the floor mat. the dealer and manufacturer stated that the contact would be responsible for the repairs. the current and failure mileages were 60,000.

Defect investigations

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.

• Air suspension system failure

  PE07042Opened Aug 14, 2007Closed Nov 20, 2007
  The subject s-class vehicles contain a compressed air suspension system that uses air struts on each of the four wheels in lieu of traditional springs and shock absorbers.these air struts use compressed air to support the weight of the vehicle and control ride height.in the event of the loss of air from the system, an…

  The subject s-class vehicles contain a compressed air suspension system that uses air struts on each of the four wheels in lieu of traditional springs and shock absorbers.these air struts use compressed air to support the weight of the vehicle and control ride height.in the event of the loss of air from the system, an alert will flash on the instrument cluster warning the driver to either drive carefully or to stop the vehicle.the vehicle ride height can be reduced by as much as 105 mm below normal ride height before the full load of the vehicle for that wheel comes to rest on a steel rod, with a rubber stop on the end, located in the shock absorber.this rest-stop condition IS designed such that there IS no impact on vehicle control.mercedes-benz (mbusa) supplied video showing a vehicle in this condition operating under several different situations including evasive maneuvers demonstrating the ability of the vehicle to be controlled effectively with a ride height reduced to the minimum.only those complaints to odi and mbusa that alleged a steering interference during a reduced ride height condition were counted in this resume failure report.some complaints alleged that with a reduced ride height and a stop now warning message there was a rubbing noise when turning, but the ability to steer the vehicle was not compromised.a sampling of warranty claims submitted by mbusa did not reveal any indicating a loss of control due to an airmatic system failure.there was one crash reported by mbusa to odi but the information available indicated that it related to suspension systems and it was not possible to verify that the incident was related to an airmatic system failure. Further use of agency resources in this matter does not appear to be warranted.the agency will continue to monitor complaints and other information relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles and will take further action in the future if warranted.this preliminary evaluation IS closed.

Service bulletins

Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.

• 11009122Complaint Washer fluid system leaks Cause Various possible causes: 1. Washer fluid reservoir itself. 2. Seal on washer fluid pump/washer fluid reservoir. 3. Washer fluid pump. 3.1. Distributor housing leaks. 3.2. Pump fitting leaks. 3.3. Washer fluid hose cannot be snapped into place on pump fitting. 3.4. Washer fluid hose will not stay on pump fitting, although connector OK. 4. Washer fluid line. 4.1 Connector will not stay on pump fitting because it is broken. 4.2 Sealing ring in connector missing. 4.3 Sealing ring in connector fitted, but deformed and therefore leaks. 4.4 Damage to washer line by animal. 5. Seal on heating washer fluid reservoir/washer fluid reservoir. Remedy Replace defective component parts only. Do not replace any adjacent component parts that are intact. Note: Repair kits for washer line hoses do exist to allow patches for line damage.
• 11008091Complaint During a phone call, the called party has difficulty understanding/cannot understand the driver, or interference/background noises are audible to the called party during a call. It becomes increasingly difficult to understand as the speed rises. Cause A. Seating of the microphones in the headliner. Side edges are covered by the textile cover (see picture "1") B. Assembly of microphones (B25/20 or B25/21) in the headliner. C. Dirt inside the microphone housing Remedy 1. Press finger on rear of microphone (on adhesive tape) 2. Remove microphone cap from the front 3. Eliminate protruding material residues of the microphone cutout at the headliner, e.g. with a soldering iron. The microphone must be seated in the headliner as shown in picture "2". 4. Push microphone from behind until it is firmly pressed into the headliner 5. Maintain pressure and press/clip cap into microphone from the front. Note: The cover cap must be clearly heard and felt to engage. 6. This procedure must be carried out on both microphones (B25/20 and B25/21) Note: It is recommended to replace the cover caps. The non-woven cloth in the cover cap protects the microphone from soiling and must not be removed. NOTE: The information contained in this document is intended for use by trained, professional technicians with the knowledge to properly and safely perform diagnosis and repairs on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, using Mercedes-Benz approved tools and equipment. It informs service technicians about conditions that could occur in certain vehicles and provides information that could assist in proper vehicle diagnosis, service, or repair. It does not indicate that a defect is present in any vehicle referenced in this document nor does it imply warranty coverage. DO NOT assume that a symptom or condition, or a described cause of a symptom or condition, affects any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles, or that a described repair applies to any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles. There can be multiple causes resulting in the same or similar symptoms or conditions described in this document, and trained professional service technicians must use their diagnostic skills to make evaluations on a case-by-case basis. The information contained in this document does not guarantee warranty coverage nor does it extend the vehicles warranty in any way.
• 11007974Complaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp. A leak test must be performed to determine if physical fogging exists or if the headlamp is leaky. Remedy In advance, observe LI82.10-P-078301 "Headlamps or Front Fog Lamps Leaking or Fogged". 1. Prepare headlamp/check for external damage: For headlamps with a closed system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and check also for correct seating of the Gore-diaphragm/correct latching of the cover caps. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. For headlamps with an open system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and seal off the vent then make sure the cover caps are latched correctly into place. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. Note: A headlamp with external damage is not a warranty or goodwill case. 2. Leak test of headlamp with overpressure: Connect test adapter to pressure tester. (Figure 1) Check test adapter for leak tightness. To do so, connect plug and coupling (picture 2) and apply a maximum overpressure of 30 mbar. The pressure must remain constant. If the pressure does not remain constant, use a new adapter. Seal all the outlet openings using sealing compound and the given diaphragm with the plunger (picture 3). (Picture 4) Make allowance for the different headlamp variants here (there are different outlet openings). Check if the headlamp needs to be removed to gain access to the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. Plug the adapter onto the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. (Picture 5). Apply a maximum of 30 mbar overpressure to the headlamp housing. Note: If the maximum overpressure of 50 mbar is exceeded the headlamp seal will be damaged. If a pressure drop of less than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is not leaky and the problem is down to natural physical fogging. If a pressure drop of more than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is leaky. Note: The leaky position can be localized with the aid of soap suds. Replace any leaky headlamps. Note: Desiccant packs can be installed for headlamps that are not leaky. See: LI82.10-P-064766 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - open ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - closed ventilation system
• 11007753Complaint Headlamp or front fog lamp leaky or fogged Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. Headlamps comply with all applicable standards. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the hood or trunk. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing fogged/condensed halogen/xenon headlamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4F). Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch off the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Note: If there is no visible reduction in the formation of condensation, check the headlamp for a defect. (See Remedy 2) It is not physically possible to defog the headlamps completely. Fogging does not impair the operation or the service life of the headlamp. Remedy 2 A Damaged headlamp can be identified as follows: 1. Check the headlamp for external damage and that the cover caps and the diaphragm are correctly seated. 2. Check the electrical connectors of the plugs and pins. 3. Check for leak tightness in accordance with LI82.10-P-078307. The test can only be conducted on headlamps. 4. If the headlamp or the rear lamp has any external damage, replace the component part in accordance with the WIS instructions. Note: External damage to the headlamp/rear lamp or faulty seating of the cover caps does not present a warranty or goodwill case. With headlamps, it is possible to install desiccant packs if the problem occurs repeatedly. Open ventilation system: LI82.10-P-064766. Closed ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304
• 11005294Complaint Rear lamps fogged up/not leaktight. Cause Fogging of the rear lamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. This does not lead to any technical impairment of the rear lamps. Remedy Rear lamp: Remedy 1: Clearing fogged/condensed rear lamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) Note: Do not wash the vehicle or subject it to high-pressure cleaning before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the trunk. 4. Switch on the exterior lighting. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation -> a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (defogging progress).
• 10248162Crease formation on genuine leather seat covers in vehicles with low mileage Objects left on the seats for extended periods of time (pressure marks). Objects wedged between the seat backrest and seat cushion (e.g. seat belt buckle). Light initial creases due to vehicle handling. Light creases in the outer covers originating from the production process (missing finish). Heat treatment of the seat covers using heat gun and plastic wedge. Be very careful to not overheat the seat material!
• 10205293Tire Pressure Sensors.
• 10205233Mobile phone cotacts are not transferred completely.
• 10202531Touch pad: Search lighting does not dim or does not turn on.
• 10186141NTG5.5: Incorrect time shown on instrument cluster, COMAND display, and analog clock
• 10181124Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D or R
• 10181123Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D
• 101766615 to 4 coasting downshift - shift quality concern with cold trans- mission oil on MODEL 217 or 222 in combination with ENGI- NE 278 and TRANSMISSION 722.9 without code 835/498
• 10167545During disengagement from D to N and/or from R to N some slight jolting could be experienced.
• 10166982During disengagement from D to N and/or from R to N some slight jolting could be experienced.
• 10166976Message in instrument cluster "DISTRONIC PLUSCurrently Unavailable - See Owner's Manual"
• 10166975This Customer 1 Action has been initiated because certain mbrace subscribers were recently contacted by mbrace informing them that they need to have an i-button call performed to ensure their mbrace device has registered with the Verizon Telematics systems. If the i-button call failed or if the customer was unable to perform the i-button call, the mbrace agent instructed the customer to make an appointment with their dealer to have the issue corrected and/or i-button call performed. The vehicles impacted range from model year 2002 to 2014.
• 10165844Possible minor leakage at described components or oil transfer from assembly plant.
• 10165839Shift quality complaints on TRANSMISSION 722.9 (7G-TRONIC and 7G-TRONIC PLUS)
• 10135628iPhone mobile phone: Various complaints after software update to iOS8
• 10135604Vehicle cannot be opened via Keyless-Go and radio remote control
• 10044222Mercedes benz: front or rear seat belt does not roll up correctly. Dirt deposits on the seat belt guide due to soiled seat belt. Also included models 169, f cell, 246, and 231. No model years given.
• 10044181Xentry: rattling/thumping noises from the area of the steering on rough roads or when driving over road undulations. No model years given. Also included models 168 and 172.
• 10037917Mercedes-benze: there IS a leakage at the press-fit sleeve of a pulsation damper. This IS caused by high heat entering the system or tension in the line.
• 10036737Mercedes: knocking or thumping noise from rear of the vehicle during acceleration. This document has been discontinued.
• 10030929Mercedes: corrosion protection coatings for brake components and hardware may be damaged and or stripped away if highly concentrated acid based cleaners are used. Once the corrosion protection IS damaged or removed the brake components and or hardware can begin to corrode. Include all models and model years.
• 10028685Mercedes: vehicle does not lower and/or airmatic visit workshop display in instrument cluster. Model 220. Model years unknown. Updated 7/13/11.
• 10028684Mercedes: esp service required displayed in instrument cluster. Also includes 4matics, bi turbos and kompressors. Models 215 and 220. Model years unknown.
• 10028665Mercedes: warning message right low beam- check bulb; or left low beam-check bulb in instrument cluster. Due to the fact that the xenon burner may not be ignited on first attempt due to tolerances in ignition voltage. Model years unknown.
• 10028627Mercedes: display in instrument cluster "air suspension" or "abc service required" IS displayed in the instrument cluster, the engine wiring harness may have been damaged by the wiper linkage. Models 215.3 and 220. Model years unknown.
• 10028626Mercedes: the vehicle's suspension level randomly lowering while driving and/or rapid sporadic level changes shortly after stopping the vehicle, replace the body acceleration sensors. Models 215.3, 220, and 230. Model years unknown.
• 10028587Mercedes: leaks at steering gear control head connection to high or low pressure lines or leaks at internal steering lines of control head connection to steering gear housing. Models 171, 203, 204, 209, 211, 215, 216, 219, 220, 221, and 230. Model years unknown.
• 10025845Mercedes benz: water in tail lamp housing on either right side or left side.
• 10016687Abc visit workshop displayed in instrument cluster and hydraulic fluid leakage. Updated 5/14/09. Models 215, 220 and 230. Model years unknown.
• 10016670Mercedes: the fuel level indicated in the instrument cluster does not match the actual fill level. This may be caused by a fault in the fuel level sensor function chain: hydraulic and electrical lines and their connections, rear sam or instrument cluster. Updated 2/23/09. Updated 9/18/09. Model years unknown.
• 10010959Leakage from front air suspension strut thorugh the sealing compound. This serivce bulletin supersedes 322218 dated 01/16/2004. Mersedes benz models 220.170; 175, 183, 184. Vin up to 360985 without active body control. Updated 8/28/08.

Every Mercedes Benz S430 model year

Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.