1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- The system most likely to surface first: electrical system (moderate severity).
- No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 1987 model year.
- Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1988 Mercedes-Benz S-Class earns a 75.
Is the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Worth Buying?
The 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126) is a testament to German engineering, offering exceptional build quality and a luxurious driving experience that few modern cars can replicate. While inherently robust, its advanced age means potential owners must be prepared for significant upkeep and an elevated risk of expensive, age-related failures. This vehicle is a strong contender for enthusiasts who understand classic car ownership, but it is not a 'buy and forget' daily driver.
The 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is an icon, but owning one today is a commitment, not a convenience. It demands a dedicated enthusiast with realistic expectations and a substantial budget for ongoing maintenance and age-related repairs. While exquisitely built, decades of use mean every system is ripe for attention;…
Best Model Years
1988-1991 (later W126 models saw some minor improvements and refinement, especially the 560SEL/SEC)
Years to Avoid
1981-1983 380SE/SEL (due to early timing chain issues on the 3.8L V8, largely resolved by 1987 models)
Biggest Strengths
- Exceptional build quality and robust chassis engineering
- Durable engines (particularly the M117 V8s) when properly maintained
- Timeless design and strong safety features for its era
What Tends to Fail First on the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The complex electrical systems, including the climate control unit, power window motors, and central locking vacuum system, are highly susceptible to age-related failures from worn wiring, failing relays, and degraded vacuum lines. Diagn…
The automatic climate control system is notoriously complex and prone to failure. Issues often stem from the climate control unit itself, vacuum actuators, auxiliary water pump, or blower motor, leading to loss of heating, cooling, or pr…
While built well, decades of exposure can lead to significant rust, particularly around wheel arches, jacking points, battery tray, lower door seams, and windshield/rear window surrounds. Sunroof drains can also clog, causing interior wa…
1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, a well-maintained W126 is barely broken in. Focus should be on ensuring all fluids are fresh, belts are good, and basic maintenance items like filters and spark plugs are up to date. Early signs of deferred maintenance m…
Maintenance Zone
This mileage requires comprehensive fluid changes (engine, transmission, differential, power steering, brake fluid), inspection of rubber components like hoses and belts, and a thorough check of the ignition system. Suspension bushings m…
Elevated Risk Zone
Here, major wear items like control arm bushings, ball joints, and potentially fuel system components (injectors, fuel pump) will likely need attention. The complex climate control system or power window motors are common failure points.…
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, expect to address potential oil leaks (seals and gaskets), transmission wear (shift flares), steering box play, and potential rust issues. This is where deferred maintenance truly accumulates, demanding significant…
1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$800-1,500 (for a well-maintained example, more for deferred)
Moderate Repairs
$1,000-3,000 occasionally (e.g., HVAC repair, suspension overhaul, fuel system work)
How Long Does the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Last?
For a W126, condition and service history are vastly more important than mileage. A well-documented, meticulously maintained 200,000-mile example is often a safer bet than a low-mileage car with a sketchy history.
What 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Unmatched build quality and bank-vault solidity, inspiring confidence at speed.
- Timeless, elegant design that still turns heads and garners respect.
- Superior ride comfort and highway cruising ability, absorbing road imperfections effortlessly.
- Excellent safety features for its time, providing a sense of security.
Common Frustrations
- High cost of specialized parts and labor for repairs, making ownership expensive.
- Persistent electrical gremlins, particularly with the climate control and power accessories.
- Poor fuel economy, especially with the V8 engines, which can be a daily financial drain.
- Difficulty finding qualified mechanics who truly understand these older, complex systems.
Who Should Buy the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
Best For
- Classic car enthusiasts seeking a driving experience from a golden era of automotive engineering.
- DIY mechanics willing to learn and perform their own maintenance and repairs.
- Individuals seeking a robust, comfortable, and stylish weekend cruiser.
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious daily drivers expecting modern car reliability and low running costs.
- Those who require absolute trouble-free ownership and are averse to mechanical work.
How the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Compares to Rivals
The W126 S-Class stands as a benchmark for its era in terms of build quality and engineering prowess, often outclassing its American and British counterparts. However, compared to simpler Japanese sedans or even later luxury models, its maintenance demands are significantly hi…
More Reliable Than
- Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham (same era)
- Lincoln Town Car (same era)
- Jaguar XJ6 (XJ40 generation - for reliability)
Comparable To
- BMW 7-Series (E23/E32 generation)
- Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit (for build quality and complexity)
1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Recall History
No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.
What breaks on the 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Mercedes-Benz S-Class Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Click any year for its full report.
1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
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Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 1987 Mercedes-Benz S-Class? Keep it that way.
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