Is the 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class reliable?

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class scores 40/100 (F) on OwnerKeep's reliability index, which places it in the high risk category. See the full report for the specific strengths and failure points.

What are the common problems with the 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

See the Common Issues section above for the top failure areas reported by real owners, with typical mileage ranges where problems start showing up.

How much does it cost to maintain a 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Expected maintenance costs depend heavily on age, mileage and how well the vehicle was kept up. Run the full report for a year-by-year cost outlook.

What should I check before buying a 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Focus on the top risk areas flagged in this report, review service history, and verify the vehicle is not inside one of the mileage danger zones listed above.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reliability ReportF grade · high risk · system-by-system breakdown

40/ 100

KeepScore

HIGH RISK

Grade: F

A tempting luxury bargain that quickly transforms into an expensive nightmare without meticulous, preemptive maintenance and a deep repair fund.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The system most likely to surface first: airmatic suspension system (major severity).
No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 2002 model year.
Scores 5 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2000 Mercedes-Benz S-Class earns a 45.

Is the 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Worth Buying?

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220) is a breathtaking luxury sedan that comes with an equally breathtaking potential for financial ruin. While the initial purchase price might be tempting, I strongly advise against acquiring one unless you possess an extensive maintenance budget or are a highly skilled DIY mechanic, as its complex systems are prone to numerous, costly failures.

Biggest Strengths

Exceptional ride comfort and interior luxury (when working)
Powerful and relatively robust M113 V8 engine
Outstanding highway cruising capability

What Tends to Fail First on the 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The systems that break first on the 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Airmatic Suspension Systemmajor

Electrical/CAN Bus Systemmajor

Transmission (722.6 5G-Tronic)moderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Recall History

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 2002 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.

All Mercedes-Benz S-Class years ranked →Mercedes-Benz S-Class years to avoid →Mercedes-Benz S-Class common problems →

2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

2001 ToyotaLand Cruiser

88/100

2000 ChevroletCorvette

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Frequently Asked Questions

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