2000 Mercedes Benz S500
Not enough comparison years on file yet 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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1993 | 2 |
| 1994 | 2 |
| 1995 | 4 |
| 1996 | 1 |
| 1999 | 2 |
| 2000 | 55 |
| 2001 | 34 |
| 2002 | 25 |
| 2003 | 10 |
| 2004 | 12 |
| 2005 | 11 |
| 2006 | 12 |
| 2007 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
49% of complaints: electrical system — 27 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
I WAS GETTING STUFF FROM THE TRUNK. WHEN I WENT BACK TO THE CAR IT WAS FULL OF SMOKE. WHEN I INSPECTED THE SORCE OF THE FIRE IT WAA THE BLOWER RESISTOR. THE WIRING TO THE BLOWER WAS BURNT AT THE CONNECTOR.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200905
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCEDES BENZ S500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR INSPECTION OR REPAIRS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20121010
THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED MULTIPLE MECHANICAL FAILURES. SEAT BELT STICKS, WHILE DRIVING DASH LIGHTS GO OUT, POWER STEERING DROPPED, ATEANNA FELL OFF, POWER WINDOWS MALFUNCTION. *TS *NLM
NHTSA ODI report, 20030408
22% of complaints: interior lighting — 12 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCEDES BENZ S500 (N/A). WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS STOPPED FUNCTIONING.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120720
13% of complaints: suspension — 7 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 MERCEDES-BENZ S500L. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT HEARD A KNOCKING NOISE UNDERNEATH THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY KNOCKED WHILE PARKED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180201
11% of complaints: exterior lighting — 6 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
IN REFERENCE TO CAMPAIGN 06V028000 WHAT IS THE BASIS FOR EXCLUSION OF SOME CARS OF THE SAME YEAR VS OTHERS?
NHTSA ODI report, 20180312
9% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 5 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
THE CAR WAS BEING TAKEN OUT OF THE DRIVE WAY IN REVERSE AT 5MPH.
NHTSA ODI report, 20020424
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER FAILURE
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2000 Mercedes Benz S500 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (27 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for interior lighting issues (12 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (7 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2000 Mercedes Benz S500 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 2000 Mercedes Benz S500?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 49% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2000 Mercedes Benz S500 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.