Is the 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class reliable?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class scores 35/100 (D-) 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 2004 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 2004 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 2004 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

2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

35/ 100

KeepScore

HIGH RISK

Grade: D-

A symphony of luxury and advanced engineering, quickly turning into a financial opera of complex and crippling repair bills.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 2004 model year.
Scores 17 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class earns a 52.
The system most likely to surface first: active body control (abc) / airmatic suspension (critical severity).

Should You Buy the 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, while exuding luxury and performance, is a known money pit. This vehicle's complex, integrated systems are prone to catastrophic and expensive failures, making it a high-risk proposition for anyone not prepared for consistent, substantial maintenance costs. It's a luxury experience that demands a luxury budget for upkeep, often exceeding the car's market value in just a few years.

Biggest Strengths

Robust core engine (M112/M113 V8s) when well-maintained
Exceptional ride comfort and interior luxury
Strong safety features for its era

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Active Body Control (ABC) / AIRMATIC Suspensioncritical

Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC)critical

Electrical System & Modulesmajor

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

NHTSA Recalls

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 2004 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Mercedes-Benz S-Class by Year

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 →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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