2011 Mercedes-Benz S550
Only 8 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 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 | 15 |
| 2011 | 8 |
| 2012 | 5 |
| 2013 | 7 |
| 2014 | 24 |
| 2015 | 41 |
| 2016 | 15 |
| 2017 | 16 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 8 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 8 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
My driver side Rear seat underneath is leaking gasoline. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE If the fuel filter flange cracks, it will leak fuel which may lead to a fire if an external ignition source is present. NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V557000
NHTSA ODI report, 20240508
I am filing a complaint with your agency regarding a fuel pump malfunction with my 2011 Mercedes S550 (VIN# [XXX]), because I feel that the incident below is a major safety concern and is similarly situated to the following NHTSA Campaign...
NHTSA ODI report, 20220318
1 of 8 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
1 of 8 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact's daughter owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the garage, the contact noticed that the air suspension had collapsed.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250429
1 of 8 total reports mentions: structure.
Show complaint excerpts
IABOUT 2 MONTHS AGO, I WAS UNABLE TO START MY CAR. IT HAD A WARNING MESSAGE 'SERVICES REQUIRED. DO NOT SHIFT THE GEAR'. WE TOWED OUR CAR TO THE DEALER AND LEARNED THAT THE BACKSEAT FLOOD HAD STANDING WATER! THIS CAUSED THE ELECTRONIC SHORTAGE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200923
1 of 8 total reports mentions: engine.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ S550. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE PARKED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE WHICH STARTED FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180822
SAFETY TIMELINE
Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 S400, S550, S550 4Matic, S63 AMG, C300, C300 4Matic, E350, GLK350, GLK350 4Matic, CL550 4Matic, and CL63 AMG vehicles manufactured from April 18
Remedy: Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel filter, free of charge. The recall campaign is expected to begin in February 2013. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6
Campaign 12V557000 — check if this car was fixed
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (Mercedes Benz) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 S550, S550 CGI, S63, S600 Bi-Turbo, S65 AMG, S550 4-Matic, and S550 CGI 4-Matic and S400 Hybrid vehicles manufactured f
Remedy: Mercedes Benz will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the tire pressure monitoring unit, free of charge. The recall began on September 12, 2014. Owners may contact Mercedes Benz at 1-800-367-
Campaign 11V493000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2011 Mercedes-Benz S550 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 12V557000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
- Verify recall 11V493000 (tires) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2011 Mercedes-Benz S550 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S550?
The most-reported component is fuel/propulsion system, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2011 Mercedes-Benz S550 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.