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2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Hybrid Gas
Large Cars
7 EPA-rated configurations
Data refreshed 2026-10-26
F
Safety Signal
52 / 100 from the NHTSA recall record
RecallsNHTSA campaigns 17
Complaints2 crash · 3 injured · 1 died reported 35
Crash ratingnot rated by NHTSA —
Fuel economybest combined, EPA 24 mpg
202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is sold in the U.S. as a hybrid and gas large sedan with 7 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version, the S500 4matic, is EPA-rated at 24 mpg combined. NHTSA lists 17 recall campaigns for this model year, which gives it a Safety Signal grade of F. Owners have filed 35 complaints, most often about the electrical system.

2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Specs & fuel economy

Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov
ConfigurationPowertrainDriveEngine / motorCityHwyCombAnnual fuel*
S500 4maticHybrid4WD3.0L 6-cyl + 48V Li-Ion202924$3,400
S580 4maticHybrid4WD4.0L 8-cyl turbo + 48V Li-Ion172520$4,100
S580 4matic MaybachHybrid4WD4.0L 8-cyl turbo + 48V Li-Ion162419$4,350
S560 4matic CoupeGas4WD4.0L 8-cyl turbo162620$4,100
S560 ConvertibleGasRWD4.0L 8-cyl turbo162620$4,100
AMG S63 4matic Plus CoupeGas4WD4.0L 8-cyl turbo162619$4,350
AMG S63 4matic Plus ConvertibleGas4WD4.0L 8-cyl turbo142417$4,850

*EPA estimate at 15,000 miles/year at EPA reference fuel and electricity prices. fueleconomy.gov record ids: 44090, 44163, 44162, 43533, 43529, 43534, 43530.

Emissions & certification

Source: EPA emission certificates
ConfigurationSmog ratingEmission standardWhere it can be sold newSmartWay
S500 4matic6 / 10California LEV-III ULEV50 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 50All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standards—
AMG S63 4matic Plus Convertible, AMG S63 4matic Plus Coupe, S560 4matic Coupe, S560 Convertible, S580 4matic, S580 4matic Maybach5 / 10California LEV-III ULEV70 / Federal Tier 3 Bin 70All 50 states (federal, all altitudes); California and states following California standards—

Certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S.

The smog rating scores tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, 1 (worst) to 10 (best), and is comparable only within a model year. The standard is the federal bin or California tier the configuration was certified to. Both come from the EPA certificate behind the window sticker.

Specifications filed with NHTSA

Source: NHTSA vPIC

Dimensions Exterior

Body styleSedan/Saloon
Doors4
GVWR classClass 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)

Engine Basics

Cylinders8
Displacement4 L
Engine configurationV-Shaped

Fuel Economy

FuelGasoline

Seating

Seat rows2
Seating capacity5 seats

Transmission

TransmissionAutomatic
Transmission speeds9

Driver assistance

Standard: Anti-lock brakes, Automatic emergency braking, Backup camera, Blind-spot monitoring, Electronic stability control, Lane departure warning, Lane keeping assist, Parking assist

Filed by the manufacturer with NHTSA under the federal vehicle-identification rule and decoded from the VIN pattern — not a manufacturer press kit, so it describes one configuration rather than every trim (seen: S580-4M). Figures for the trim you are looking at may differ.

Dimensions & weight

Source: Transport Canada
Length198.0–209.4 in
Width (body, without mirrors)74.8–76.8 in
Height55.5–59.1 in
Wheelbase116.1–126.4 in
Track, front64.2–65.0 in
Track, rear65.0 in
Curb weight4,564–4,817 lb
Weight distribution, front/rear53/47

Measured by Transport Canada for its Canadian Vehicle Specifications database, which covers the North American versions of each model — here 6 configurations: S500 4Matic 4-door Sedan SWB, S560 4Matic 2-door Coupe, S560 Cabriolet, S580 4Matic 4-door Sedan LWB, S63 AMG 4Matic 2-door Coupe, S63 AMG 4Matic Cabriolet. Where a range is shown, those versions differ. Width is the body without mirrors, which is why it can read narrower than a brochure figure. Before we used it we checked it against the US manufacturer press kits we hold (27 Sep 2026): wheelbase agreed within 1% on every vehicle we could compare, length on 98%, and the curb weight fell inside the manufacturer's range on 96%. Source dataset. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Licence.

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Recalls (17)

Source: NHTSA recall database
▲high

Service Brakes, Hydraulic

2025030007
20,339 vehicles 82% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 S 500, Maybach S 580 4MATIC, 2021-2023 S 580 4MATIC, 2022 S 680 4MATIC, and 2023 S 580e 4MATIC vehicles. The front brake hoses may rupture and leak brake fluid. Risk A brake fluid leak can extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the front brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2025030007.
NHTSA campaign 25V116000 reported Feb 24, 2025 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

2024110002
21 vehicles 57% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Maybach S 580 4MATIC, S 500 4MATIC, and S 580 4MATIC vehicles. The emergency call system may fail to place an automatic or manual call and may not provide the vehicle location as intended. Risk A disabled emergency call system that prevents a vehicle occupant from contacting emergency services or fails to identify the vehicle location, can delay emergency responders and increase the risk of injury. Fix Dealers will update the communication module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 6, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2024110002.
NHTSA campaign 24V807000 reported Oct 25, 2024 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Engine And Engine Cooling

2024100007
27,190 vehicles 90% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 S580, and Maybach S580 vehicles. In the event of a mechanical failure in the engine Camtronic system, the engine control unit (ECU) software may cause the engine to overheat or stall. Risk An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash. In addition, an engine that overheats can increase the risk of a fire. Fix Dealers will update the ECU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 15, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on November 15, 2024, January 10, 2025, and February 21, 2025. Owners can contact Mercedes-Benz Customer Service at 1-877-496-3691. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2024100007.
NHTSA campaign 24V704000 reported Sep 20, 2024 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Fuel System, Gasoline

2023070012
143,551 vehicles 92% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS, SL, GT, GLC, GLE, GLS, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The fuel pump may shutdown, which can result in a loss of drive power. Risk A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 14, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2023070012.
NHTSA campaign 23V445000 reported Jun 26, 2023 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Electrical System

2023040009
6 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 Maybach S580 and S580 vehicles. The bulkhead that separates the engine compartment from the passenger compartment may not have been properly sealed, causing water to drain into the passenger compartment. Water intrusion into the foot wells may cause corrosion and/or short circuits to electrical components, disabling safety features, including seat belt tightening and seat adjustments (PreSafe system). Risk Disabled safety features, including seat belt tightening and seat adjustments, can increase the risk of injury in a crash. Fix Dealers will repair the bulkhead front wall sealing, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 12, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2023040009.
NHTSA campaign 23V200000 reported Mar 24, 2023 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Visibility

2023020008
1 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling one 2021 S 580 4Matic vehicle. The fixed front glass panel between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not be properly secured and may detach. Risk A detached glass panel may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will replace the front fixed glass panel, free of charge. The owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2023. The owner may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2023020008.
NHTSA campaign 23V098000 reported Feb 17, 2023 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Back Over Prevention

2022080002
8,530 vehicles 96% reported repaired built Jul 13, 2020 – Jan 19, 2022
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2022 AMG EQS53, EQS580, EQS450, 2021 S500, S580, and Maybach S580 vehicles. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error in the MBUX multimedia system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." Risk An inoperative rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will update the MBUX multimedia system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 19, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022080002.
NHTSA campaign 22V493000 reported Jul 11, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

See Recall Schedule
242,722 vehicles 91% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system. Risk A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury. Fix The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.
Filed with NHTSAOwner letter PDF
NHTSA campaign 22V365000 reported May 20, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Steering

2022040006
4 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 S580 4Matic and S500 4Matic vehicles. The electrical connector to the steering column module may not be secured properly, which can disable gear shifts and/or safety features including the electronic stability program, the driver's air bag, and turn signal indicators. Risk Disabled safety features or the inability to shift gears can increase the risk of a crash or injury. Fix Dealers will inspect and reinstall the cover for the electrical connector, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 13, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022040006.
NHTSA campaign 22V214000 reported Apr 1, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Steering

2022040010
8,396 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL, EClass Coupe/Convertible, CLS, AMG GT 4-doors Coupe, and EQS vehicles with a heated leather steering wheel. Due to a software error in the hand detection control unit, the hands-off detection might not detect when the driver's hands are away from the steering wheel when using the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC system. Risk Deactivated hands-off detection will prevent DISTRONIC system features from functioning, including warnings to grab the steering wheel and calling first responders as part of the Active Emergency Stop Assist, which can increase the risk of a crash or injury. Fix Dealers will update the hand detection control unit software for the DISTRONIC system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 6, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022040010.
NHTSA campaign 22V189000 reported Mar 25, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Exterior Lighting

2022040013
9,156 vehicles 97% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2022 EQS 450, EQS 580, and 2021 S500 and S580 vehicles. A software error may disable the rear turn signals, hazard lights, and reverse lights. Risk Disabled rear turn signals, hazard lights, and reverse lights can reduce the vehicle's visibility to other driver's, increasing the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will update the rear signal software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022040013.
NHTSA campaign 22V167000 reported Mar 18, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

2022030024
14 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 S580 4Matic vehicles. The air bag control unit may be improperly secured and may result in an unintentional air bag or seat belt deployment, or an improper deployment in the event of a crash. Risk Unintentional or improper deployment of air bags and/or seat belts can increase the risk of a crash or injury. Fix Dealers will inspect and tighten the air bag control unit fastening nuts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 15, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-637-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022030024.
NHTSA campaign 22V124000 reported Mar 4, 2022 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
○minor

Electrical System

2022010003
227 vehicles 97% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 S580, 2022 EQS450, EQS580, and S500 vehicles with an active and connected Mercedes me connect account. The MBUX infotainment system might allow activation of the television and internet display while driving, causing a distraction for the driver. Risk Driver distraction can increase the risk of a crash. Fix MBUSA has updated their computer server to correct the issue for most vehicles, free of charge. For vehicles that were not able to be updated remotely, dealers will provide the software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 25, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V931000 reported Nov 29, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Engine And Engine Cooling

2022010002
8,669 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 S580 and Maybach S580 vehicles. An engine control unit software error may cause a sudden engine stall, without the ability to restart the vehicle. Risk An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will update the engine control unit software, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed on January 28, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Filed with NHTSARemedy instructions PDF
NHTSA campaign 21V843000 reported Oct 29, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Air Bags

2021100010
1,311 vehicles 98% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 S500, S580, and Maybach S580 vehicles. The air bag control unit software may deactivate the occupant recognition control unit, resulting in a deactivated front passenger air bag. Risk A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash. Fix Dealers will update the air bag control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 1, 2021. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021100010. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
NHTSA campaign 21V789000 reported Oct 11, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
▲high

Fuel System, Gasoline

2021090012
7 vehicles 100% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 S580 vehicles. The suction jet pump in the fuel tank may have a loose or missing nozzle, which can cause the pump to fail and result in an engine stall. Risk An engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Fix Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the fuel tank including the suction jet pump, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed October 26, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
NHTSA campaign 21V704000 reported Sep 10, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →
●moderate

Electrical System

2021020025
1,292,258 vehicles 95% reported repaired
Problem Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash. Risk Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash. Fix MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.
NHTSA campaign 21V058000 reported Feb 5, 2021 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC the full filing, and every vehicle covered →

These are vehicle campaigns — the ones the automaker filed against this model. NHTSA also records equipment recalls, filed by a parts maker against a component (a tyre, a child seat, an aftermarket part), and those are not listed here or counted above. nhtsa.gov/recalls shows both for a VIN.

Whether any of this applies to one specific S-Class

A campaign covers a build range, not a model year, so two identical-looking cars from 2021 can differ. Both of these check a VIN against the manufacturer’s own list, free, in about ten seconds. Mercedes-Benz publishes its own lookup because federal rule 49 CFR 573.15 requires it to, and to keep it current to within seven days.

Hear about a recall before the letter does

The manufacturer’s letter is the last step of a recall: it has up to 60 days after filing to mail owners, at the address on the registration. We email you the day NHTSA posts a recall on the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, with what to do next. Nothing else, ever — no newsletter, no marketing, one-click unsubscribe in every message.

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Parts & accessories for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

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Owner complaints

Source: NHTSA complaint database
35complaints filed

2 involved a crash · 0 a fire · 3 injuries · 1 deaths reported

37 per 10,000 built · Mercedes-Benz reported 9,534 S-Class built (its Early Warning production report to NHTSA)

Filed per year: 2021: 6 · 2022: 7 · 2023: 5 · 2024: 5 · 2025: 7 · 2026: 5

Most-cited components

Electrical System 10
Engine 9
Wheels 6
Forward Collision Avoidance 5
Unspecified 4
Lane Departure 4

In owners' own words

Filed with NHTSA by the people who own these cars, one per problem area. Quoted as written, with anything identifying removed.

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz S580. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V704000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair.
Engine Dec 20, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11631798
I purchased this vehicle used at a dealer in Virginia. I drove it home to Chelsea Alabama, outside Birmingham. After a couple of days, my front right tire went flat. I took it to the dealer and they said the flat tire was caused by a cracked rim and required both to be replaced. Almost $3,000 for tire and rim.
Wheels Feb 20, 2025 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11643990
While on the freeway, going approximately 70 mph, the vehicles onboard cameras all failed and I got a warning that said “camera dirty/unavailable/traffic sign assist currently unavailable”. Because of this failure, I almost crashed the car in Front of me. I cleaned all the cameras. The message continues to appear.
Visibility/Wiper Jan 18, 2025 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11636844
Every Mercedes Benz manufactured in 2021 has a defective hood lens which prevents the adaptive driver assistance system from working properly. You can have it on and it will work intermittently which can easily cause a major crash. Mercedes Benz says the part is not available in USA or Germany. Every Mercedes is affected.
Forward Collision Avoidance Jun 1, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11591956
The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz S580. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the "Camera System Unavailable" and "Camera Dirty" messages were displayed on the instrument panel.
Electrical System at 1,000 miles Apr 30, 2024 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11586092
Driving on highway at about 50 mph when the brakes suddenly slammed on and brought car to a sudden, near stop. The stop was so sudden our seatbelts engaged and we thought we were struck in the rear by another car.
Service Brakes Jan 12, 2023 NHTSA owner report · ODI 11501439

Complaint counts are raw owner reports to NHTSA, not verified defects, and scale with how many were sold. Use them to spot patterns, not to rank.

Reported by Mercedes-Benz itself: 3 death-or-injury claims on this model year in its quarterly Early Warning reports to NHTSA (49 CFR 579.21): 3 injured, as claimed, not verified — about 31 per 100,000 built. Every S-Class model year, by year and system → Dated and by system, they are exhibit F of the defect dossier.

Crash ratings

Source: NHTSA NCAP

NHTSA has not published 5-Star crash ratings for this model year.

Driver-assist crash reports (4)

Source: NHTSA Standing General Order 2021-01
4reports filed

2 minor · 2 no injury reported

Sep 2021 to Aug 2023 · 0 with an air bag deployment · 1 towed

What was engaged, and what was hit

System named: DRIVE PILOT (1), Distronic with Active Steering Assist (1), HYP. 8.0 (1)

Crash partner: Heavy Truck 1 · Passenger Car 1 · SUV 1 · Van 1

Filed by: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC, NVIDIA CORP

IncidentSystemStruckInjury allegedStateSpeedReport
Aug 2023ADSVanminorCA—855-6288
Feb 2023ADS · DRIVE PILOTHeavy Truckno injury reportedCA—855-5055
Sep 2022Level 2 · HYP. 8.0SUVno injury reportedCA1 mph30571-3815
Sep 2021Level 2 · Distronic with Active Steering AssistPassenger CarminorTX—855-1341

From the manufacturer’s own filing

The reporting entity’s narrative as NHTSA published it, with anything identifying removed and nothing added. A narrative is a notice, written before the entity had verified what happened.

All prior narratives have been removed due to character limit. Please see reports 855-1341-(1 through 3) to see prior updates. 01/[redacted]/22 Update to 855-1341-3:The customer submitted a Vehicle Owner's Questionnaire ("VOQ") to NHTSA, complaint ID 1758659.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC report 855-1341 Sep 2021 NHTSA SGO filing
Mercedes-Benz has conducted a review of the incident and the following is based on that review. The subject Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot test vehicle was traveling between 15-20 mph in the #2 northbound lane on the [redacted] in California in stop and go traffic with the L3 ADS activated by the driver.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC report 855-5055 Feb 2023 NHTSA SGO filing
Test vehicle 3416 was manually operated while traveling southbound on [redacted], San Jose CA a two-lane one-way street when the operator came to a vacant parking space between two parked vehicles. The test operator engaged the ADAS parking assist system to complete a parallel parking maneuver.
NVIDIA CORP report 30571-3815 Sep 2022 NHTSA SGO filing

A report under the General Order is a notice the manufacturer or operator must file within days of hearing of a crash in which a Level 2 driver-assist or automated-driving system was engaged within 30 seconds of impact. It is filed before anything is verified, and entities with telematics hear of far more crashes than entities that rely on complaints, so counts say as much about the reporting as about the car and are not comparable across makes. Nothing is normalised by fleet size. Every report on file, by make and year → · NHTSA’s page and files

Service bulletins & campaigns

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications
Extended coverage on file 1 filing by the manufacturer with NHTSA naming this model year

The term and the vehicles it covers are the manufacturer’s, as NHTSA’s summary of each filing states them; a dealer checks one particular car by its VIN. Every Mercedes-Benz warranty extension (9) → · Every warranty extension on file, all makes →

Communicationsfiled with NHTSA 957
Most recentmanufacturer date 2026-09-26
Kindsas classified by NHTSA 853 service bulletins, 33 over-the-air updates, 30 others

Most often about: Electrical System, Power Train, Structure, Engine, Visibility/Wiper.

  • LI46.10-P-080896 Service bulletin
    2026-09-26 · Steering
  • Complaint Slight creaking noises when steering. Cause Noises may come from one or more sleeves of the horn contact plate. Remedy Remove the horn contact plate and check the sleeves for noise; see attached video. If necessary, apply lubricant to the sleeves.
  • LI27.00-P-073124 Service bulletin
    2026-09-26 · Power Train
  • Complaint Customer complaints relating to automatic transmission 725.0 (NAG3 Classic /9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission) and 725.1 (NAG3 facelift/9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission facelift) For faster, more effective and more targeted diagnosis, Intelligent Predictive Repair (IPR) has been developed and integrated into XENTRY Diagnosis. This ensures an automated diagnosis process. Cause As part of t
  • LI18.00-P-073137 Service bulletin
    2026-09-26 · Engine
  • Complaint Sporadic warning message in instrument cluster "Engine oil pressure, stop switch off vehicle" (or similar) is shown in red on vehicles with low mileage. Cause Directional control valve may stick. Remedy 1‑ Read off oil level in instrument cluster and correct if necessary. 2‑ Perform approx. 10‑15 engine starts, then clear fault codes. 3‑ Perform road test with vehicle. If fault code reoc
  • 11038222 Over-the-air update
    2026-09-25 · Electrical System
  • A software update will be performed that provides enhancements to the robustness and system stability of the communication module. The update is free of charge and runs in the background, which takes about 8 minutes to install. During this time, the vehicle can be driven without any restrictions, and the new software will be active with the next ignition cycle. Remedy MBUSA will conduct an OTA se
  • LI83.90-P-080935 Service bulletin
    2026-09-25 · Visibility/Wiper
  • Complaint CEL illuminates and/or AC does not blow cold. Cause Potentially relevance to hardware and/or software Remedy Scenario 1: 1. If the AC does not blow cold air, replace compressor (if compressor's index and part number Figure 1 match against Table 1). a. If the compressor does not fall within Table 1, please open a TIPS case. b. Flush procedure must be followed as per WIS. Scenario 2: 1. If
  • LI42.10-P-078779 Service bulletin
    2026-09-22 · Service Brakes
  • Complaint Repeat workshop visit for vehicle vibration while braking from 60MPH. NOTE: Although the symptom is similar to a tire or wheel vibration, it is usually readily noticeable that it is distinctly different if it happens at all times or only while braking. Cause Although the cause of the vibration is most likely due to excessive lateral runout on the rotor or hub/wheel bearing, the system as
  • 2026-09-18 · Visibility/Wiper
  • Dear Dealer Partners, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is Thursday, October 8th, 2026. After October 8th, we will no longer accept returns of these parts. These parts should be returned via ZSR Special Return, using item category SCM Authorized Part Return. Please
  • LI20.10-P-075374 Service bulletin
    2026-09-17 · Engine
  • Complaint Red coolant warning in instrument cluster. Fault codes U019F00 or U019F87 current/stored in MRG1 control unit. Cause Various causes Remedy Perform guided test for fault code U019F with XENTRY diagnosis. Verify the following connections are clean and tight. Correct any problems and retest pump actuation: ‑12V plug at M75/11 ‑48V plug at M75/11 ‑48V connector X192/4 ‑Connections at 48V fus

A service bulletin is the manufacturer telling its dealers how to diagnose or repair a known condition. It is not a recall, not a finding that the vehicle is defective, and the work is not automatically free — though a bulletin is often what a dealer works from when you describe a symptom, so quoting the document number can save a diagnosis. The count is every communication filed; the list shows the most recent, one entry per campaign, because a single campaign is usually filed as several documents on the same day. The summaries are NHTSA's; the full documents come from the manufacturer.

Diagnostic trouble codes on file

Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications and complaints

Codes documented against this model year in the federal record. A code appearing here does not mean this vehicle will set it — it means the code is part of this nameplate-year's documented history.

CodeWhat it meansMost often filed underWhere it appears
U019F
U019F on Mercedes-Benz →
Manufacturer-defined — the meaning is set by the automaker, not the standard.Engine2 bulletins

Generic codes (the second character is 0 or 2) mean the same thing on every vehicle sold in the United States. Manufacturer-specific codes (1 or 3) mean whatever the automaker assigned, and no honest source can define them for you — which is why the ones here carry the evidence instead of a definition. A code is a link when enough separate federal documents name it across the catalogue to be worth a page of its own; the rest are listed here, where the vehicle is the context that makes them mean something.

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At the New York inspection station

Source: New York State DMV

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class failed the emissions check on 2.7% of first inspections — higher than the 1.9% for every 2021 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 0.62% (every 2021 vehicle: 1.5%).

New York inspections 2.7%

failed emissions

484 initial inspections of 473 vehicles.

MeasureThe 2021 S-ClassEvery 2021 vehicleBehind it
Failed the emissions check2.7%1.9%482
Failed the safety inspection0.62%1.5%484
Air-bag warning lamp stayed lit0.21%0.19%484
Miles driven a year7,24910,343odometer at inspection
Average odometer38,51054,681odometer at inspection

New York’s emissions test on these model years is an on-board diagnostics check: it fails a car whose check-engine light is on or whose self-tests have not finished. First inspections only, so a car that failed and came back is counted once; private and special plates, not taxis, livery or commercial plates. A rate appears only where at least 200 inspections stand behind it. “Every 2021 vehicle” is every 2021 model-year car, SUV and pickup inspected in the same window, all makes. This is the state’s record of test results, not a reliability score by itself. Source: New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Inspections (data.ny.gov, Open NY terms).

Common questions about the 2021 S-Class

Source: EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer press kits

Does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class have any recalls?

NHTSA has posted 17 recall campaigns for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The most serious on file is 25V116000, covering Service Brakes, Hydraulic. Check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls; a recall applies to specific build ranges, not every car.

How safe is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

NHTSA has not published a crash-test rating for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class yet. On the recall record WhichTrim grades it F (52/100), which measures open and severe recalls rather than crash protection.

What is the fuel economy of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Across the 7 EPA-rated configurations of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the best EPA combined figure is 24 mpg. Figures are the EPA's own, per configuration, and every one is listed above.

What are the dimensions of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Transport Canada measured it at 198.0–209.4 in long, 74.8–76.8 in wide (body, without mirrors), 55.5–59.1 in tall, on a 116.1–126.4 in wheelbase. Curb weight: 4,564–4,817 lb depending on configuration. Those are its measurements of the North American versions; every figure is in the table above.

What do owners complain about on the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

Owners have filed 35 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, most often about electrical system, engine, wheels. Of those, 2 involved a crash, 3 reported injuries. Complaints are unverified owner reports, so treat the pattern as a signal and the individual report as an anecdote.

How clean is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

The EPA smog rating for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class runs 5 to 6 out of 10 across its configurations. That score covers tailpipe pollutants other than greenhouse gases, and it only compares vehicles within the same model year. It is certified for all fifty states, so it can be registered new anywhere in the U.S. Its configurations were certified to different standards — California LEV-III ULEV50, California LEV-III ULEV70, Federal Tier 3 Bin 50, Federal Tier 3 Bin 70 — which the table above lists per configuration.

Are there service bulletins for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?

The manufacturer has filed 957 service bulletins and related communications with NHTSA for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, most often covering electrical system, power train, structure. The most recent is dated 2026-09-26. A bulletin is not a recall: it is the repair procedure a manufacturer sends its dealers for a condition it knows about, and the work is not automatically paid for. It is still worth knowing — if the symptom matches, quoting the bulletin number at the service desk can save a diagnosis. The document numbers and summaries are listed above.

How does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class do at state inspection?

In New York’s inspection lanes over the 12 months to Oct 10, 2026, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class failed the emissions check on 2.7% of first inspections — higher than the 1.9% for every 2021 model-year vehicle inspected; and the safety inspection on 0.62% (every 2021 vehicle: 1.5%). The figures are New York State DMV’s own inspection records, first inspections only, and the table above sets each one against every vehicle of the same model year.

What we hold, and what an empty row means

Paid vehicle-history reports will not tell you the difference between “nothing happened to this car” and “we never received that record” — both of the big two say as much in their own help pages. Most of what is on this page comes from complete federal registers, so we can tell you which is which, row by row.

DataHeldSourceWhat it covers — or what empty means
Fuel economy & configurations7 configurationsEPA certification recordsEvery configuration the EPA certified for sale, with its own test figures.
Emission certificates7 configurationsEPA emission certificatesSmog rating, standard and the sales area that decides where the car can be sold new.
Recalls17NHTSA recall campaignsA complete federal register: every campaign covering this model year, with severity and advisory flags.
Owner complaints35NHTSA complaint databaseAlso complete, but unverified: these are reports owners filed, not findings. Counts scale with how many were sold.
Crash ratingsnoneNHTSA NCAPNHTSA has not tested this model year. Cars are selected for testing, so untested is not unsafe.
Service bulletins957NHTSA manufacturer communicationsEverything the manufacturer told its dealers about a defect or malfunction, short of a recall.
InvestigationsnoneNHTSA Office of Defects InvestigationNo defect investigation has been opened.
Driver-assist crash reports4NHTSA Standing General Order 2021-01Crashes the manufacturer or operator reported with a Level 2 or automated-driving system engaged. Notices, filed before verification; not comparable across makes.
Specifications filed with NHTSA11 fieldsNHTSA vPIC, decoded from VIN patternsWhat the manufacturer filed under the federal VIN rule — a configuration, not the full trim ladder.
Measured dimensions7 fieldsTransport Canada, Canadian Vehicle SpecificationsLength, width, height, wheelbase, track and curb weight, measured on the North American versions.
Trims, pricing & equipmentnoneManufacturer press kitWe have not transcribed a press kit for this model year yet. This is our gap, not the manufacturer's — the one row here where an empty cell means we are behind.

Rebuilt nightly; this page was generated 2026-10-26. Every figure above is traceable to the source named beside it, and the JSON for this page carries the same values with their identifiers.

Sources & method

Safety Signal starts every model-year at 100 and subtracts points per open NHTSA recall campaign by severity: critical 15 (fire risk, park-outside or do-not-drive advisories), high 8 (brakes, steering, airbags, loss of drive power, structure, battery), moderate 6, minor 3 (software, labels, lighting fixed by an update). The most serious recall counts in full and each further one counts 85% of the one before, because a vehicle sold in millions is recalled more often than a rare one without being more dangerous — and because a flat subtraction bottomed the scale out, scoring a vehicle with 22 recalls within a point of one with six. A ≥ 90, B ≥ 80, C ≥ 70, D ≥ 60, otherwise F. Read it as what it counts: recall campaigns on the federal record, weighted by severity. The damping reduces the sales bias by roughly 40% but does not remove it: like our complaint counts, this is not normalized by how many were sold, so a best-seller still scores somewhat worse than an obscure model with the same real risk. NHTSA crash ratings, do-not-drive and park-outside advisories, and the crash, fire, injury and death counts in owner complaints are reported separately on every page and never blended into the letter — a vehicle can hold five stars and a poor letter at once, and where that happens we say so rather than leave you to notice. Because the scale subtracts from a clean sheet, a model year too new to have been recalled, complained about or bulletined scores full marks on an empty record; we label those grades provisional rather than present them as earned.

EPA figures come from fueleconomy.gov vehicle records. Recalls, complaints, investigations and crash ratings come from NHTSA's public flat files, refreshed nightly.

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