Table 1 shows one common suspension related problems of the 2004 Mercedes Benz S430.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Suspension problems |
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.
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.
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.
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.