Summary
The Mercedes-Benz S 500 has 7 recalls across the 2021-2023 model years, with the most serious being a front brake hose defect on 2021-2022 models where the hose can rupture and leak fluid, extending stopping distances and raising the risk of a crash.
A separate suspension issue on 2022 models involves the rear axle carrier's thrust arm weld, which can fail and allow the thrust arm to detach entirely, causing a sudden loss of vehicle control or pulling the car sideways during hard braking. Also on 2022-2023 vehicles, the fuel pump can shut off without warning while driving, cutting drive power and leaving the driver without propulsion in traffic.
On 2021 models, a loose electrical connector in the steering column module can disable multiple systems at once, including electronic stability control, the driver's airbag, and turn signals, while also preventing gear changes. There is also a software fault on 2021 models where the airbag control unit can deactivate the passenger seat occupancy sensor, turning off the front passenger airbag so it will not deploy in a crash. Rear lighting on 2021-2022 models is affected by a separate software error that can disable the rear turn signals, hazard lights, and reverse lights, making the vehicle harder for other drivers to read. Finally, a dashboard attachment problem on a 2022 model can cause the front passenger airbag to deploy incorrectly in a crash, reducing its protective effect.
