AutoStatsIQ
Data through Oct 2026
Model year

2021 Mercedes-Benz S 500

Sedan, gasoline, built in Germany. Owner complaints on file from Dec 4, 2024 to Dec 4, 2024.

Recalls (7)Complaints (1)Investigations (0)Bulletins (291)
Recall campaigns covering this model year7282k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints1Below the median 2021 sedan
Severity index0.02021 sedans average 7.9
First 24 months0Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S 500 peaked in 2024, with 1 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

00.250.50.7512024120252026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

100% of complaints about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S 500 name engine and cooling

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Engine and cooling
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

7 recall campaigns cover the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S 500

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S 500
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
25V-116Feb 24, 2025Front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluidBrakes20,339Part replacement
24V-807Oct 25, 2024Emergency call system may fail to place an automatic or manual call and may not provide the vehicle location as intendedCommunication21Software update
22V-493Jul 11, 2022Rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error in the MBUX multimedia systemBack-over prevention8,530Software update
22V-365May 20, 2022Error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) systemCommunication242,722Software update
22V-214Apr 1, 2022Electrical connector to the steering column module may not be secured properly, which can disable gear shifts and/or safety features including the…Steering4Repair or modification
22V-167Mar 18, 2022Software error may disable the rear turn signals, hazard lights, and reverse lightsLighting9,156Software update
21V-789Oct 11, 2021Air bag control unit software may deactivate the occupant recognition control unit, resulting in a deactivated front passenger air bagAirbags1,311Software update
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Look up a VIN at NHTSA
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S 500

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

1 complaint on file, page 1 of 1.

  1. Filed Dec 4, 2024Failure Nov 20, 202420,700 milesOrlando, FLEngine and engine cooling

    The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz. The contact stated while driving at 10 MPH, the vehicle stalls until the contact engages the vehicle in sport mode. The vehicle was not taken to an independent mechanic or dealer for diagnosis or repairs. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure and a case was opened. The contact was relating the failure to  NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V704000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The failure mileage was 20,700.

    NHTSA complaint 11628889
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
All investigations
Service bulletins

291 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • LI35.31-P-080353 Sep 14, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Whining / humming noises (described as foghorn‑like) from the drivetrain in the rear axle area during cornering. (figure 1) On the above‑mentioned vehicles with a mileage up to 15,000 km (about 9,300 mi), noises can occur from the rear axle differ…
  • LI54.71-P-079104 Sep 11, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Traffic sign symbol for "Traffic Sign Assist" is blinking in instrument cluster without obvious cause usually with one of the following scenarios: • Flashing without a speed limit ("‑ ‑"). • Flashing when current vehicle speed is under speed limit…
  • LI27.00-P-073124 Sep 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Customer complaints relating to automatic transmission 725.0 (NAG3 Classic / 9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission) and 725.1 (NAG3 facelift/9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission facelift) For faster, more effective and more targeted diagnosis, Intelligent …
  • LI83.90-P-080935 Sep 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint CEL illuminates and/or AC does not blow cold. Cause Potentially relevance to hardware and/or software Remedy Scenario 1: 1. If the AC does not blow cold air, replace compressor (if compressor's index and part number Figure 1 match against Table 1)…
  • OTA - Update Com Mod SW Sep 11, 2026 · Over The Air
    Issue On certain subject vehicles, software for the communication module does not meet the current series production configuration. A software update will be implemented which will provide robustness enhancements and system stabilization measures for the co…
  • PSL-NCU Return Parts 9/18 Sep 18, 2026 · Other
    Dear Dealer Partners, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is Thursday, October 8th, 2026. After October 8th, we will no long…
  • PSL-NCU Return Parts 9/04 Sep 5, 2026 · Other
    Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, September 24th, 2026. After …
  • LI83.55-P-080937 Sep 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Cause Internal failure of the scroll wheel within the AC compressor. Remedy Check the compressor's index and part number Figure 1 against Table 1. If listed please perform the following: 1. Replace the compressor, drier, and expansion valve using the applic…
  • LI46.35-P-067339 Aug 28, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint During part of the steering movement, it feels heavier or more difficult to steer in the same spot every time. OR Rattling, humming, dry sliding/gravel noise from the electric steering system when steering (see attachment). Complaint does not imp…
  • CL - Tank Leak Detection Aug 15, 2026 · Warranty Program/Extension
    Dear Mercedes-Benz Owner: In our continuing efforts to ensure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA is extending the warranty coverage for the Diagnostic Module for Tank Leakage …
  • LI54.71-P-079104 Aug 22, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Traffic sign symbol for "Traffic Sign Assist" is blinking in instrument cluster without obvious cause usually with one of the following scenarios: • Flashing without a speed limit ("‑ ‑"). • Flashing when current vehicle speed is under speed limit…
  • LI72.20-P-075746 Aug 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. EXAMPLE: when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so…
  • LI82.85-P-079088 Aug 14, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint The following most common complaints may be observed: • Brief connectivity interruptions when using Apple CarPlay over Wi-Fi • Audio cuts out • Device not recognized • No operation possible Cause There are multiple possible causes for an iPhone di…
  • LI54.65-P-080132 Aug 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics. Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached di…
  • LI82.62-P-078631 Aug 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Clanking noise from the area of the speakers in the doors. Cause Under analysis. Remedy To narrow down the cause, first of all remove the door trim. • If the noise continues to occur even with the door trim removed, then continue the diagnosis wor…
  • LI27.00-P-075630 Aug 5, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint This document is intended as a pre-case diagnostic reference for transmission related concerns. It will also ensure that if a case is necessary, all supporting documentation is available. This should not be used on its own as justification for cre…
  • LI27.00-P-080840 Aug 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Mercedes-Benz USA is currently experiencing limited availability of transmission fluid specification ATF 236.17 due to a global supply constraint. 236.17 ATF 1L and 5L (PNs: A002989060312 and A002989060313) bottles are out of stock or in limited s…
  • LI33.30-P-080490 Aug 3, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Leakage/oil leakage at drive pinion sealing ring (input shaft) (Figures 1-2) Minor leakage/slight seepage at coupling flange nut at drive pinion (Figures 3-4) Cause Damage to sealing ring during production process or insufficient use of lubricatin…
  • EW - DMTL Jul 31, 2026 · Warranty Program/Extension
    This NCU replaces the prior NCU issued on May 15, 2025, and contains additional MY 2023 and MY 2024 vehicles which are highlighted below. In our continuing efforts to ensure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of…
  • LI40.10-P-059248 Jul 21, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Crackling and cracking noise from the outer wheel on the front axle when cornering Cause The noise is generated by a micromovement on the contact surface between the rim and the brake disk (wheel bolt group) and may be intensified by potential soi…
  • LI46.10-P-078012 Jul 17, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Hand detection system – malfunction / vehicles with code 266 Fault message in instrument cluster: "Active Emergency Stop Assist not available" "Active Lane Keeping Assist not available" "Active steering assist not available" Cause Possible causes:…
  • LI54.71-P-079104 Jul 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Traffic sign symbol for "Traffic Sign Assist" is blinking in instrument cluster without obvious cause usually with one of the following scenarios: • Flashing without a speed limit ("- -"). • Flashing when current vehicle speed is under speed limit…
  • LI35.30-P-058566 Jul 14, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The noise is heard once in each instance when changing direction of travel. Note: Sound file in attachment Cause If the complaint is eliminated by exp…
  • LI33.20-P-078406 Jul 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comp…
  • PSL-NCU Return Parts 7/3 Jul 3, 2026 · Other
    Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, July 23rd, 2026. After July …
  • LI33.20-P-078406 Jul 7, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comp…
  • LI00.20-P-077615 Jul 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint 1. "Perform vehicle handover" in the workshop menu to start the maintenance computer for service A/B cannot be carried out. 2. Service confirmation is not possible because "Perform vehicle handover" is displayed. This cannot be carried out. 3. The…
  • LI54.30-P-080649 Jul 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint General information on the operation of the PRE-SAFE® Impulse system: The PRE-SAFE® Side Impulse system is a preventive, i.e. pre-collision occupant protection system. The task of the system is to provide additional protection to vehicle occupants…
  • ANN - S/223_EQS/297 Jun 25, 2026 · Other
    For awareness, after SW update of control unit, IC223, on models 223 and 297, seat belt lamp and chime remains on. Thank you for your patience while we find a solution.
  • PSL-NCU Return Parts 6/19 Jun 19, 2026 · Other
    Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, July 9, 2026. After July 9th…
  • LI00.20-P-078424 Jun 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint The remaining time shown on the instrument cluster in the workshop menu (days to next due service) is implausible (>365 days) for the following conditions: • for the date of the vehicle handover • or the last conducted and confirmed Service A/B Ca…
  • LI00.20-P-077615 Jun 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint 1. "Perform vehicle handover" in the workshop menu to start the maintenance computer for service A/B cannot be carried out. 2. Service confirmation is not possible because "Perform vehicle handover" is displayed. This cannot be carried out. 3. The…
  • LI00.20-P-077615 May 29, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint 1. "Perform vehicle handover" in the workshop menu to start the maintenance computer for service A/B cannot be carried out. 2. Service confirmation is not possible because "Perform vehicle handover" is displayed. This cannot be carried out. 3. The…
  • PSL-NCU Return Parts 5/22 May 22, 2026 · Other
    Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, June 11, 2026. After June 11…
  • LI46.15-P-070510 May 22, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Noises from the area of the steering column. - Creaking - Squeaking - Chattering - Humming - Grinding Cause At present, there are no known noise problems with the steering column. Remedy Check surrounding area of the steering column for possible n…
  • LI54.10-P-080602 May 20, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint 48V battery (A66) part numbers A 000 982 78 24, A 000 982 57 30, A 000 982 88 31, A 000 982 50 32, A 000 982 87 32) may trigger a fault message ("48 V Service Required" with fault codes P0ADA91, P0ADE91, P0AA100, P0ADD00 or P0AA000) in the instrum…
  • LI91.16-P-073576 May 20, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint • Driver's seat and/or front passenger seat cannot be adjusted. • Not possible to adjust front seats to memory preset. • Head restraints of front seats cannot be adjusted. • Cannot move to chauffeur mode/reclining seat position. Fault identificati…
  • LI82.30-P-059239 May 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint There are several types of complaint about noises or poor windshield wiper wiping performance: A: Wiper blades squeaking, chattering, shuddering B: The windshield is not wiped completely (streaking) C: During the downward movement water is pulled …
  • PSL-NCU Return Parts 5/15 May 15, 2026 · Other
    The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, June 4, 2026. After June 4th, returns of these parts will no…
  • LI91.29-P-080554 May 15, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint One or more seat functions are restricted or inoperative. This may include: • Seat memory • Automatic seat adjustment • Easy Entry/Exit • Head restraint presetting • Collision avoidance with bench seat at rear • Actuation by other vehicle systems …
  • LI54.65-P-080132 May 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia…
  • LI33.20-P-078406 May 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comp…
  • LI46.15-P-070510 May 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Cause At present, there are no known noise problems with the steering column. Remedy Check surrounding area of the steering column for possible noises. • Instrument panel support • Steering column switch module If noise only occurs when adjusting the steeri…
  • LI82.10-P-078301 Apr 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Headlamp, 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. If a pressure compensation diaphragm…
  • LI00.01-P-078887 Apr 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint The intent of this document is to provide workshops with helpful technical reference language. • Commonly used acronyms in LI's and TIPS cases. • Control unit names, numbers, and how to identify. • Network/wiring architecture groups to baumuster q…
  • LI33.20-P-078406 Apr 17, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comp…
  • LI72.20-P-075746 Apr 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. EXAMPLE: when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so…
  • LI54.71-P-079104 Apr 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Traffic sign symbol for "Traffic Sign Assist" is blinking in instrument cluster without obvious cause usually with one of the following scenarios: • Flashing without a speed limit ("- -"). • Flashing when current vehicle speed is under speed limit…
  • LI91.60-P-076303 Apr 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint SRS indicator light illuminated in the instrument cluster. Electrical fault in the rear airbag/window airbag that may cause a connection between the airbag pins or to the vehicle mass Cause Contact problems that create a short circuit between the …
  • LI00.01-P-078887 Mar 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint The intent of this document is to provide workshops with helpful technical reference language. • Commonly used acronyms in LI's and TIPS cases. • Control unit names, numbers, and how to identify. • Network/wiring architecture groups to baumuster q…
  • LI80.20-P-078308 Mar 23, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Depending on the identified problem (items 1-4), please implement the corresponding Remedy below (items 1-4): 1. KeylessGo sensor surfaces do not respond. Door handles can extend/retract if the key is used for locking/unlocking. No particular faul…
  • LI46.10-P-079374 Mar 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Customer concern for ESP/Brake or Steering yellow instrument cluster message AND C220564 in the N80 Steering Column Control Module (Valeo Parts only). To check which supplier steering column module is present in the vehicle, see attachment "Suppli…
  • LI46.80-P-079280 Mar 27, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Rattling/knocking noise from the rear axle steering is audible when driving on rough terrain or cobblestones. Excessive radial play (green arrows) between the screw-on stud (1) and the plain bearing (2). Cause Diverse functional play in the rear a…
  • LI82.85-P-080359 Mar 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Mercedes me connect services inoperative (me-Call, Remote Status, etc.). Mercedes me services - activation not possible Notes: - The event code "B16AC00 - The configuration of the SIM card is erroneous" is active and stored - The head unit shows n…
  • LI82.85-P-077914 Mar 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Mercedes me connect services inoperative (me-Call, Remote Status, etc.). Mercedes me services - activation not possible Notes: - The event code "B129C00 - Malfunction in control unit for telematics services" is active and stored - The head unit sh…
  • LI82.85-P-078722 Mar 11, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint The vehicle's position on the map is displayed far away from its actual position, e.g. the vehicle is displayed as being in the middle of the ocean. Note: No relevant DTC is displayed during the quick test. Cause The GNSS antenna is not correctly …
  • LI54.65-P-080132 Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia…
  • LI82.00-P-080029 Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint The seat may no longer be adjustable using the electric seat adjustment switch on the door module. No related error is stored in the quick test. Cause Under certain conditions, the electric seat adjustment switch may remain in sleep mode. It is th…
  • LI82.10-P-078301 Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Headlamp, 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. If a pressure compensation diaphragm …
  • LI54.10-P-073164 Mar 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Complaint Yellow information message in driver display (instrument cluster): "Switch on motor to charge the 12V battery" Cause The state of charge (SOC) of the 12V battery has dropped to 45% or less. Remedy This warning message appears as soon as the state …
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.
About service bulletins