2003 Mercedes Benz S Class
Only 28 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 28 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 28
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2003
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2003: 28 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1994 | 12 |
| 1995 | 27 |
| 1996 | 6 |
| 1997 | 2 |
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 9 |
| 2000 | 81 |
| 2001 | 36 |
| 2002 | 48 |
| 2003 | 28 |
| 2004 | 15 |
| 2005 | 2 |
| 2009 | 2 |
| 2012 | 1 |
Known problem areas
Only 28 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Suspension
11 of 28 total reports mention: suspension, most commonly citing front and rear.
Electrical system
6 of 28 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing instrument cluster/panel.
Show complaint excerpts
My 2003 mercedes S500 has twice electronically self-closed it's trunk on two separate users, on two separate occasions. This vehicle has been taken to two separate mercedes dealers for the problem. One of those dealers replaced a number of parts.
NHTSA ODI report, 2006-06-19
Also filed under Latches/locks/linkages
Seat belts
4 of 28 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing retractor.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2003 Mercedes Benz S55. The contact stated that the seat belt would not retract properly whenever there were warmer temperatures. The vehicle was inspected by a dealer and the dealer was unable to determine the failure.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-04-25
Also filed under Latches/locks/linkages
The driver's side seat belt does not work properly during hot weather. More particularly, the belt will not extend. It is impossible to pull the belt out enough to fasten it.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-07-03
Air bags
4 of 28 total reports mention: air bags, most commonly citing frontal.
Latches/locks/linkages
3 of 28 total reports mention: latches/locks/linkages, most commonly citing lock.
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2004-08-17Latches/locks/linkages04V285000 On certain vehicles, the trunk lid springs could fail in the closed trunk lid position.
Remedy: Dealers will replace both trunk lid springs. The recall began August 17, 2004. Owners should contact mercedes- benz at 1-800-367-6372.
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R
2007-07-02Engine and engine cooling, suspension07V263000 On certain vehicles, corrosion may occur in the inner steel portions of the active body control's (Abc) high pressure distribution hose due to extensive exposure to humidity causing deterioration of…
Remedy: Dealers will install new corrosion resistant abc high pressure distribution hose. The recall began on July 2, 2007. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
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I
2007-08-14Preliminary evaluationClosed 2007-11-20 Air suspension system failure
Buy-smart checklist
2003 Mercedes Benz S Class — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Suspension: 11 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Seat belts: 4 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 04V285000 · Latches/locks/linkages
- Recall 07V263000 · Engine and engine cooling, suspension
FAQ
- Is the 2003 Mercedes Benz S Class reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2003 Mercedes Benz S Class?
- The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2003 Mercedes Benz S Class have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.