2002 Mercedes Benz S Class
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Mercedes Benz › S Class › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Mercedes Benz S Class. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2002 Mercedes Benz S Class. Newest first.
On certain vehicles, corrosion may occur in the inner steel portions of the active body control's (abc) high pressure distribution hose due to extensive exposure to humidity causing deterioration of the hose.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This may result in abc hydraulic fluid leakage near the catalytic converter. leaking fluid may come in contact with hot engine components and lead to a possible fire.
Remedy
Dealers will install new corrosion resistant abc high pressure distribution hose. the recall began on july 2, 2007. owners may contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.
On certain vehicles, the instrument cluster IS experiencing electrical malfunctions. the instrument cluster contains gauges and indicators that must be illuminated whenever the vehicle IS in operation.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Due to inadequate illumination, the driver will be unable to read the gauges and indicators, such as the speedometer, which could increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the instrument cluster modules. the recall will be conducted in phases. phase I was mailed out to approximately 7,500 owners on september 29, 2006. phase II and phase III IS scheduled for december 2006. owners may contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Owner complaints
48 complaints
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
Instrument cluster failure. all lighting for instrument dark/unreadable (speedometer,tach,odometer,fuel,temp,turn signal etc). taken to dealer and I paid for rebuild to unit. identical failure occured again after approx 3 months. *tr
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
The instrument cluster issue I am experiencing began approximately july, 2012. initially, the dashboard lights would flicker briefly and then illuminate again. subsequent to the frequent flickering incidents, the cluster lighting didn't illuminate at all, with the exception of the small…
The instrument cluster issue I am experiencing began approximately july, 2012. initially, the dashboard lights would flicker briefly and then illuminate again. subsequent to the frequent flickering incidents, the cluster lighting didn't illuminate at all, with the exception of the small diagnostic viewer. currently, all lighting, gauges, and any diagnostic instruments, including the control buttons located on the steering wheel do not function. In addition to the forementioned, the headlights now constantly illuminate and the turn signal IS completely silent and not visible from the instrument panel. I immediately inquired with a certified mercedes benz technician regarding the lighting cluster and control issue and through that inquiry was made aware of the vehicle recall related to the instrument cluster. with that said, I called the local mercedes benz dealership service department and provided the vin number; and the service representative referred me to mercedes benz corporate; I provided the vin number again, and was then told I didn't respond to the recall notification. the facts are contrary to that assertion; because if I had received the recall notification I would have acted upon the request. Currently the automobile has no lights and cannot be driven at night, nor am I aware if there IS gasoline in the automobile. I have contacted mercedes benz corporation for assistance, who have completely excused themselves of this very serious problem. your assistance to this very important matter IS very much appreciated. *tr
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
On starting the vehicle, the instrument panel was black without illumination or reading. As a result, gauges to speedometer, odometer, fuel, warnings to malfunctions, tachometer, oil pressure, & engine temperature are not present. *tr
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz s-class. The contact stated that while driving 58 mph, all of the instrument panel lights and gauges failed. The vehicle was towed to the contact's home and the dealer was contacted. The dealer advised the contact that there was an electronic malfunction. The manufacturer confirmed that the vehicle was not included in any recalls. The failure mileage was 98500.
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
My 2002 mercedes S430 instrument cluster back lighting went out while I was driving and I could not see my rate of speed. Along with not seeing my rate of speed my fuel and temperature was not visable. I called mercedes dealer in virginia about the recall that came out in 2006 and I was told that…
My 2002 mercedes S430 instrument cluster back lighting went out while I was driving and I could not see my rate of speed. Along with not seeing my rate of speed my fuel and temperature was not visable. I called mercedes dealer in virginia about the recall that came out in 2006 and I was told that the recall had expired. Looking on the internet there IS a 10 year extension but I was told that it was from the time the car was manufactured. I have never heard of such in my life and I would like to know the bottom line truth to this situation. *tt
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S430. While driving approximately 65 mph, the abc suspension failed as a result the vehicle automatically lowered in a downward motion towards the road. The contact was able to maneuver to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S430. While driving approximately 65 mph, the abc suspension failed as a result the vehicle automatically lowered in a downward motion towards the road. The contact was able to maneuver to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer where the fuse link, airmatic pump relay and airmatic compressor were replaced. There was a recall related to the failure under nhtsa campaign ID number 07v263000 (suspension). The vin was not included in the recall. The approximate failure mileage was 71,268.
- Power train › Automatic transmission
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S55 AMG. The contact stated that he was unable to shift the vehicle out of park. The vehicle was taken to a local shop where it was diagnosed that the shifter was defective and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was repaired. The failure and current mileage was 118,000.
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S55. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 mph the active body control light illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle began to decelerate. The suspension system on the passenger side of the vehicle also failed, causing the vehicle to…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S55. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 mph the active body control light illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle began to decelerate. The suspension system on the passenger side of the vehicle also failed, causing the vehicle to collapse. After coasting to a stop, the vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer where the contact was informed that the suspension pump was leaking. The vehicle was repaired. Approximately six months later the failure recurred. The failure mileage was 99,000 and the current mileage was 101,000.
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel · Interior lighting
Mercedes benz has listed a recall on all W220 mercedes-benz vehicles. The recall was about the instrument cluster failing resulting in the cluster to not work. The mph, rpm doesn't work. Nothing on the cluster works. when I went on may 12, 2011 to the mercedes dealership to get my instrument…
Mercedes benz has listed a recall on all W220 mercedes-benz vehicles. The recall was about the instrument cluster failing resulting in the cluster to not work. The mph, rpm doesn't work. Nothing on the cluster works. when I went on may 12, 2011 to the mercedes dealership to get my instrument cluster fixed because it was recalled I spoke with a lady at the dealer explaining my situation about the part being recalled and that it IS defective. She asked me to give her my vin number. When she typed in my vin number, she told me that my cluster IS not eligible for a repair. She said the my vin number was a "status 9 issue" and because of this, it voids all warranties no matter what. I spoke with everyone there tying to sort things out and see if I can work out this issue. My 2002 S430 has been in an accident that IS why it IS a status 9. But the instrument cluster did not fail because of the accident. Even after the accident the cluster still worked fine without any sort of problems what so ever for almost a month if I am not mistaken. I strongly believe that mercedes should take action for this issue no matter what. If the part IS defective, its defective. That's it. They should take responsibility and replace my recalled cluster free of charge. I would like for the dealer to take in my vehicle and replace the defective cluster. A recalled part like this should be replaced even though a vehicle like mine was in an accident. And my car wasn't in a bad accident and I have proof and pictures to show that it was not hit that bad. I would greatly appreciate if this matter would be attended to and I could get my part replaced. Thankyou very much. *tr
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S430. While driving approximately 60 mph, the airmatic suspension system warning indicator illuminated and immediately, the vehicle dropped towards the ground. The contact was able to continue driving with extreme caution. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
- Suspension
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S430 (na). The contact stated that while driving 30 mph, the rear suspension malfunction causing the vehicle to drop to the ground. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic who replaced the air shock system. The contact stated that the air pump compressor…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S430 (na). The contact stated that while driving 30 mph, the rear suspension malfunction causing the vehicle to drop to the ground. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic who replaced the air shock system. The contact stated that the air pump compressor malfunctioned three months prior to the rear suspension failure. The contact called the manufacturer who offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
- Suspension › Front
There was no warning it just gave a alert that the car was riding low and to stop. Airmatic suspension for a 2002 S430. Very costly, I did research and found out that this problem IS a common occurrence for mercedes s class. I believe it IS a defect at the manufacturer and mb should be held account for said defect. *Tr
- Suspension › Front
I own a 2002 mercedes benz S430 and feb. 2010 the "airmatic system" warning light came on. There are only 43,000 miles on my car.the dealer wants close to $1000 to put a 'kit" on to replace the failing seals on the airmatic struts, which the mfg has since changed the design and offered recalls on…
I own a 2002 mercedes benz S430 and feb. 2010 the "airmatic system" warning light came on. There are only 43,000 miles on my car.the dealer wants close to $1000 to put a 'kit" on to replace the failing seals on the airmatic struts, which the mfg has since changed the design and offered recalls on other models. I have not driven the car since as I was told if the pump burns up from the air leaking out the suspension will drop the car, causing the car to be undrivable, and it could be dangerous if the car IS in motion. I have 2 children and can not take the chance. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine · Suspension
I'm the owner of a 2002 mercedes S430 and having trouble repairing the recalls on my vehicle. I have contacted mercedes directly and the local dealer and they stated that their are no recalls on my vehicle when in fact there IS. Please help me resolve this issue. *Tr
- Suspension
Airmatic system warning light indicated that the car was too low to drive. hence, had to call a tow truck to get said car S430 mercedes repaired. *Tr
- Suspension › Front
Regular driving then front right of car falls to the ground. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Idle pulley (plastic) failed/broke on I-68 at top of sideling hill gap causing loss of power steering and other power related items. car hard to control going down long, steep hill. when pulley broke, serpentine belt fell off. we were informed that this IS not an uncommon problem. car only has 53,000 miles. *Tr
- Equipment · Suspension
I have a 2002 430S mercedes benz with only 69,000 miles on it. I have replaced the airmatic pump and paid $641.89 on sept 25, 2008 at rick hill imports in kingsport tn and my car IS again lowering to the ground while driving speeds of 40 to 50 mph. I have to pull off the road to air my car up which…
I have a 2002 430S mercedes benz with only 69,000 miles on it. I have replaced the airmatic pump and paid $641.89 on sept 25, 2008 at rick hill imports in kingsport tn and my car IS again lowering to the ground while driving speeds of 40 to 50 mph. I have to pull off the road to air my car up which IS dangerous. I took it back to rick hill imports they tell me the shocks are leaking air and that IS a common problem with these cars. I have started doing research online I have found that their are several issues with this car yr make and model. I am told that I will have to spend another 3000-4000 to get my car in the running condition it needs to be in. My car has not been driven hard or that much. The yr of my car should have about 100000 mile on it, and it does not. I also found where there IS an investigation already in place for the airmatic system. I have made mercedes aware of my problem they refuse to do anything about it. I feel that I have defaulty system and I want them to replace it after all they are known for expense luxury dependable cars and that IS why you pay 70,000 dollars for their cars. This lemon airmatic system IS going to cause me or one of my family member to get killed lowering to the ground at speed of 40-50mph and pulling off the side of the road to let it air up. *Tr
- Air bags
Air bag control unit failure. this IS an electronic module that controls the air bag system. when this unit fails, the air bag system no longer will function. I believe that this item failed prematurely and should be covered under some warranty oe recalled, as this IS a safety issue, and one would not expect this item to fail at such low mileage. the cost to replace IS well over $1000.00. *Tr
- Air bags
My car IS an 2002 mercedes S430 airmatic system failure struts and pump first the struts failed in nov 2008 which lowers the car on top of the tires and makes the car undriveable. now in june 2009, the pump failed which lowered the car on top of the tires and makes and car undriveable. this…
My car IS an 2002 mercedes S430 airmatic system failure struts and pump first the struts failed in nov 2008 which lowers the car on top of the tires and makes the car undriveable. now in june 2009, the pump failed which lowered the car on top of the tires and makes and car undriveable. this IS a serious safety problem. if this system fails while driving, the car and damage the tires and cause a blow-out result in an accident. these failures have been reported by many owners and have caused injuries and extensive costs to owners. everyone considers these failures to be very premature in the life of the car. this IS very wide spread. *Tr
- Power train › Automatic transmission
I have a 2002 mercedes S430. I would like to report a defective part on this vehicle. The "electronic shifter mechanism" went bad on my vehicle with 47,000 miles on the odometer. My car turned on, however the "shifter" would not come out of park. It was determined my the mercedes service shop that…
I have a 2002 mercedes S430. I would like to report a defective part on this vehicle. The "electronic shifter mechanism" went bad on my vehicle with 47,000 miles on the odometer. My car turned on, however the "shifter" would not come out of park. It was determined my the mercedes service shop that the "electronic shifter mechanism" was bad. During the course of waiting for my vehicle to be repaired, I had researched the issue online and throughout various sources, especially "online mercedes benz forums," I found that hundreds of people whom own the same vehicle as me as well as other models have had the same problem. I find this to be completely unacceptable for not only an expensive car, but for any car. This repair was around $1,000.00. if you would like further information such as internet websites in which I read about other mercedes car owner's having the same problem or my invoice for the repair, feel free to contact me. Thank you for your help! *tr
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S430. while driving approximately 40 mph, the instrument panel lights began blinking and then suddenly dimmed. the contact purchased the vehicle in july of 2007 and was unaware of any recalls. he researched his defect and came across a recall. he called…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz S430. while driving approximately 40 mph, the instrument panel lights began blinking and then suddenly dimmed. the contact purchased the vehicle in july of 2007 and was unaware of any recalls. he researched his defect and came across a recall. he called the manufacturer and they stated that his vin was not included. the contact feels that his vehicle should be included in the recall since he IS experiencing the same failure. the recall number was unknown. the failure mileage was 78,000.
- Air bags › Side/window · Equipment · Unknown or other
Air bag blew up with out crash about march 2008, my car was parked in my house driveway overnight next day I was getting ready to go to work when I stepped out side my house and I found my air bags had blown up. Mercedez benz dealer at long beach, california send a mechanic technician and he work…
Air bag blew up with out crash about march 2008, my car was parked in my house driveway overnight next day I was getting ready to go to work when I stepped out side my house and I found my air bags had blown up. Mercedez benz dealer at long beach, california send a mechanic technician and he work on the vehicle trying to start the vehicle so I can drive to the dealer and he could not start the vehicle, so they towed the vehicle away to the dealer, they been figuring out what was the reason for the air bag to blew up, ujp today date june 11, 2008 they said that it's my problem and I should pay for the damage, and I believe that this IS a manufacturing malfunctions. Please help me I do not what to do. *tr
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz s class. while driving approximately 55 mph, the instrument panel lights stopped illuminating. the contact could not read the speedometer and other gauges. the dealer stated that his vin was excluded from nhtsa campaign ID number 06v028000 (interior…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 mercedes benz s class. while driving approximately 55 mph, the instrument panel lights stopped illuminating. the contact could not read the speedometer and other gauges. the dealer stated that his vin was excluded from nhtsa campaign ID number 06v028000 (interior lighting); therefore, the contact would be responsible for the repair costs, which would exceed $2,000. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure and current mileages were 22,000.
- Suspension › Front › Springs › Air suspension › Lines and fittings
The seals on the front air shocks cracked causing the car to drop almost down on the tires. I see the 12 cyl.car has already had a recall to correct this was the S-500 with the 5.0 engine in this recall? *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Air suspension system failure
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.
- 10136035Complaints about poor wiping effect of winshield wiper
- 10030939Mercedes: parktronic intermittently not functioning. The function works again after a short time or distance. When the foot operated parking brake IS applied, the parktronic system IS deactivated. If the foot operated parking brake IS on at the first notch, the contact switch may react with a consideration delay when the parking brake IS released. No model years listed.
- 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.
- 10025845Mercedes benz: water in tail lamp housing on either right side or left side.
- 10019492Instrument cluster shows dashes instead of main odometer reading.
- 10014583Seal between exterior rear view mirror housing and door.
- 10009985The high pressure hydraulic distribution hose of the active body control (abc) may deteriorate over time due to excessive exposure to humidity and high temperatures. Voluntary recall campaign of active body control (abc) (12 cylinder only).
- 10009820Replacement of abc pressure supply valve unit hydraulic line.
- 627197Subject regarding hard starting after fuel filter replacement.
Every Mercedes Benz S Class model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.