PROBLEM GUIDE
Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.
Last updated April 2026
2007–2013
Model years affected
Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.
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Start my diagnosis →Non-functional warning sensors, no advance warning
Check engine light: On
Complete brake failure occurred while driving at 60-70 mph, with the warning sensors that should have alerted the driver also non-functional — a severe, compound safety failure with no advance warning available to the driver.
Engine can shut down while driving
Check engine light: On
A balance shaft sprocket defect can reportedly cause the engine to shut down while driving, described by the complainant as a major safety risk, particularly dangerous when merging or turning through intersections.
More structurally severe than a typical fuel-filter leak
Check engine light: On
Fuel system complaints include fractured fuel tanks (not just leaking filters) and persistent gasoline odors — more structurally severe than a typical fuel-system leak.
Tread "chunking" requiring early replacement
Check engine light: Off
Five complaints describe premature tire wear, sidewall bulging, and tread chunking requiring early replacement — a durability problem distinct from the run-flat blowouts reported on other luxury cars.
In certain S550 models, the HVAC blower motor may fail
Check engine light: Off
In certain S550 models, the HVAC blower motor may fail. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 74 owner reports on file.
In certain S550 models, the camshaft adjuster solenoid fails, which can cause rough running or a check engine light
Check engine light: On
In certain S550 models, the camshaft adjuster solenoid fails, which can cause rough running or a check engine light. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 53 owner reports on file.
In certain S550 models, engine performance problems occur due to crankshaft position sensor failure
Check engine light: On
In certain S550 models, engine performance problems occur due to crankshaft position sensor failure. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 37 owner reports on file.
In certain S550 models, the transmission drive selector module may fail
Check engine light: Off
In certain S550 models, the transmission drive selector module may fail. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 34 owner reports on file.
In certain S550 models, cracked driveshaft flex discs may cause driveshaft movement or vibration
Check engine light: Off
In certain S550 models, cracked driveshaft flex discs may cause driveshaft movement or vibration. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 26 owner reports on file.
In certain S550 models, washer fluid leaks from the left side, possibly due to a pump issue
Check engine light: Off
In certain S550 models, washer fluid leaks from the left side, possibly due to a pump issue. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 20 owner reports on file.
In certain S550 models, oil seepage develops on the back of the cylinder heads
Check engine light: Off
In certain S550 models, oil seepage develops on the back of the cylinder heads. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 16 owner reports on file.
No official recall was identified for the problems listed here. Enter your VIN to check for the current, confirmed recall picture on your specific car.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.
Complete brake failure at highway speed (60-70 mph) has been documented on this generation, with the warning sensors that should have alerted the driver also non-functional — a severe, compound safety failure with no advance warning available to the driver. Another complaint describes a balance shaft sprocket defect that can cause the engine to shut down while driving, described by the complainant as "a major safety risk."