# Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) buying guide [Home](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/) › [Buying guides](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/guides) › Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) > Markdown copy of https://www.luxurycardeals.com/guides/mercedes-benz/s-class-w223 for AI agents and assistants. Link and cite that URL, not this one. Buying guide · 2021 on · Updated Oct 1, 2026 The W223 S-Class is an air-suspended, software-heavy luxury sedan whose 2021 and 2022 cars carry the most recalls and updates, so the paperwork matters more than the trim. **Median asking price: $189,699** (Across 20 live listings) - Asking prices: $129,000 to $290,080, middle half $179k to $212k - For sale: 20 - Lowest price: $129,000 - Model years: 2021 on - Versions for sale: 1 ## The W223 S-Class as a used buy The W223 S-Class arrived in the US for model year 2021, and the cars to check hardest are the 2021 and 2022 builds. Stalling and subframe recalls, MBUX freezes and a 12-volt battery drain software fix all touch those years, so you want proof each one was done. This is the seventh-generation S-Class, built on the MRA2 platform. Every US car has 4MATIC all-wheel drive and AIRMATIC air suspension, and inside are flush door handles that extend as the driver approaches and a big central OLED screen. The trade-off is plain. The air struts, compressor and 48V battery have published repair figures, and the door handles and screens are things to test on every viewing. Mercedes showed a facelift in January 2026 for the 2027 model year, so everything here is the pre-facelift car. ## W223 S-Class years and versions The S 500 ran for 2021 and 2022 with a 3.0-liter turbo six, mild hybrid, 429 hp and a 9G-Tronic gearbox. The S 580 uses a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with mild hybrid, 496 hp and 516 lb-ft, and is offered from 2021 through 2026. The S 580e plug-in hybrid joined for 2023 with 510 hp, a 21.5 kWh battery and 46 miles of EPA electric range. [CarScout](https://usecarscout.com/blog/used-mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-buying-guide) notes that its under-floor battery leaves noticeably less trunk depth than the S 580. The AMG S 63 E Performance reached US showrooms for 2024 with 791 hp and a 13.1 kWh battery. It is the newest powertrain in the range and has little multi-year track record, which CarScout flags as a reason for care. The tracked Maybach versions are the [S 680](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic) and the S 580. Options shape the car as much as engines do. [Octane Files](https://www.octanefiles.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223) says E-Active Body Control, the larger rear-steering angle, the rear airbag and Drive Pilot all cost extra, and Drive Pilot works only where approved. Rear-axle steering is standard at 4.5 degrees, with up to 10 degrees on the Executive package, and CarMag calls it a transformative option that makes the long sedan feel nimble in town. The Executive Rear Seat Package is, per CarScout, the option used buyers ask for most, and it holds its value accordingly. CarScout gives 2024 to 2026 cars its best rating, noting no recalls in the NHTSA data it read, and marks 2021 and 2022 cars Caution because of recalls and door handle complaints. Our recall count is below, and you can browse [used S-Classes for sale](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/used/mercedes-benz/s-class) by model year or look at the [S-Class price guide](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/prices/mercedes-benz/s-class). ## W223 S-Class versions for sale now Every version in our latest scan, most listed first. Each links to its own page with deal analysis and market history. | Version | Model years | For sale | Median price | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic) | 2023-2026 | 20 | $189,699 | ## Common W223 S-Class problems The faults below span recalls, software, suspension and the hybrid hardware. ### Stalling and fuel pump recalls A Camtronic engine-control software fault (NHTSA campaign 24V704000) can cause overheating or stalling on 2021-2023 S 580 and Maybach S 580. Some 2021-2023 cars were also recalled because the fuel pump impeller can deform and shut the pump down, with rough running and warning lights as symptoms. ### Rear subframe welds Cars built from 10 September 2021 to 12 January 2022 were recalled for inadequate welds on the rear axle carrier subframe, which risks loss of control. Confirm the work was done on any car from that window. ### Bulkhead water ingress On 2021 cars, NHTSA's record says the primary bulkhead sealing might let water in, impairing PreSafe and possibly preventing restart. Damp footwell carpets or fogged windows give it away. ### MBUX and electrical glitches The touchscreen can freeze, restart or black out, particularly on 2021-2022 cars, and [CarMag](https://www.carmag.co.za/news/buying-used-cars/buying-used-mercedes-benz-s-class-2021-2025/) says dealer updates fix most of it. On 2021 and 2022 cars, voltage converter software could flatten the 12-volt battery and bring up ESP and ABS warnings. Some early S 580s also needed an MBUX update to repair the reversing camera. ### AIRMATIC struts and compressor Struts leak and compressors fail, leaving the car sagging overnight. [CarChecker](https://www.carchecker.pro/reports/mercedes_s500_w223.html) puts one strut at roughly €1,100-1,500 for the part plus €300-500 labor, and the compressor at €1,000-1,500 installed. ### 48V mild-hybrid faults The S 500's 48V system can throw warning messages, and the 48V battery can fail. A replacement at a Mercedes dealer runs approximately €1,500-3,000, according to CarChecker. ### Oil-vapor separator and seal On the M176 V8 the oil-vapor separator can clog, after which the rear main seal weeps oil. Look for oil at the back of the engine. ### Gearbox, steering and S 63 hybrid The 9G-Tronic can develop mechatronic or pressure sensor faults, showing as harsh shifts or no reverse. A restricted rear-axle steering warning traced to a communication fault was cured by a software reflash. S 63 owners also describe weaker power assist and start-stop trouble linked to the hybrid system. ## What to check on a used W223 S-Class Take these checks to the viewing, and to a pre-purchase inspection if you can. - Ask for proof that every recall and software update has been done, and run the VIN at NHTSA's lookup. - Check that the car holds its ride height overnight, and listen for hissing or a compressor that runs too long. - Test all four flush door handles for smooth extension and retraction. - Run through each screen, the head-up display and every seat function, including memory and massage settings if fitted. - Confirm you receive both keys, and that the connected-services account and digital service record pass to you. - Scan for stored EQ Boost or hybrid-system fault codes and watch a cold start. - Check hybrid fault codes on an S 63 specifically. - Charge an S 580e and watch for slow or incomplete charging, which points to a degraded onboard charger. - Look for damp footwell carpets or fogged glass on a 2021 car. - Check the rear of the V8 for oil weeping around the rear main seal. ## W223 S-Class running costs CarScout gives a factory oil interval of 10,000 miles, but owners change it every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. Specialists quoted by CarChecker advise replacing air struts in pairs, so budget for two when one goes. The big bills are the ones above: struts, the compressor and, on the S 500, the 48V battery. Those are European dealer figures in euros, so US pricing will differ. ## W223 S-Class recalls and complaints NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns for 2021 to 2027 W223 cars. The most serious is campaign 26V638000: front brake hoses on certain 2022-2025 cars, including the Maybach models and the AMG S 63 E Performance, may rupture and leak brake fluid. Another covers pedestrian warning sound software while reversing on 2022-2025 cars, and two cover electrical software with over-the-air fixes. Owners have filed 105 complaints with NHTSA, most about forward collision avoidance (29) and the electrical system (28). They are reports, not proven faults. A recall on one model year does not mean every car was affected, so check each car's VIN at NHTSA's recall lookup. ## NHTSA recalls for the W223 S-Class Every recall campaign the carmaker filed with NHTSA for the 2021 to 2027 model years, newest first, as of Oct 31, 2026. Not every car of a listed year was affected: check a car's VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. | Campaign | Reported | Model years | Component | What can happen | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 26V638000 | Oct 2, 2026 | 2025 | Service brakes, hydraulic | A brake fluid leak can extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. | | 25V366000 | Jun 5, 2025 | 2025 | Back over prevention | A vehicle that makes an incorrect sound may fail to alert pedestrians of a reversing vehicle, increasing the risk of crash. | | 22V365000 | May 20, 2022 | 2021 | Electrical system | 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. | | 21V058000 | Feb 5, 2021 | 2021 | Electrical system | Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash. | ## Owner complaints to NHTSA about the W223 S-Class Owners filed 105 complaints with NHTSA for the 2021 to 2027 model years (3 crashes and 1 fire reported). A complaint is an owner's report, not a confirmed defect. A complaint can name more than one component. | Component | Complaints | | --- | --- | | Forward collision avoidance | 29 | | Electrical system | 28 | | Service brakes | 16 | | Engine | 11 | | Tires | 11 | | Wheels | 11 | | Power train | 10 | | Unknown or other | 10 | ## Best W223 S-Class deals right now 8 deals priced below market right now, the best by about $69,054. Members get the VIN, dealer, listing link and a ready-to-send negotiation email for each one. - 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC: asking $205,023 · $69k below market · 1,411 mi · Las Vegas, NV · deal score 99 of 100 - 2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC: asking $129,000 · $28k below market · 20,047 mi · Ocean, NJ · deal score 95 of 100 - 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC: asking $214,014 · $37k below market · 108 mi · Troy, MI · deal score 90 of 100 - 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC: asking $170,169 · $23k below market · 7,412 mi · Walnut Creek, CA · deal score 85 of 100 - 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC: asking $189,402 · $25k below market · 6,764 mi · Alvin, TX · deal score 84 of 100 - 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC: asking $179,676 · $22k below market · 3,836 mi · West Palm Beach, FL · deal score 82 of 100 [Unlock all 8 deals](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/upgrade). Members see every deal's VIN, dealer and listing link, plus a negotiation email. ## W223 S-Class prices by model year Median asking price for each model year in our latest scan, with the number of cars listed and their price range. - 2026: $197,886 (2 for sale · $190,749 to $205,023 · median 1,411 mi) - [2025](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/used/mercedes-benz/s-class/2025): $212,399 (6 for sale · $189,402 to $290,080 · median 2,913 mi) - [2024](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/used/mercedes-benz/s-class/2024): $179,676 (9 for sale · $170,169 to $250,080 · median 7,412 mi) - 2023: $176,011 (3 for sale · $129,000 to $185,411 · median 6,906 mi) [S-Class price guide](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/prices/mercedes-benz/s-class) ## W223 S-Class fair values by trim and year Our fair value is what comparable cars, same trim and model year with typical miles, are listed at in our latest market data. A car well under it is worth a close look; a car well over it needs a reason. | Trim | Model year | Fair value | Typical miles | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | S 580 4MATIC | 2024 | $94,096 | 12,200 | | S 580 4MATIC | 2023 | $78,771 | 23,500 | | S 580 4MATIC | 2022 | $66,684 | 33,800 | | S 580 4MATIC | 2021 | $60,008 | 40,200 | | S 500 4MATIC | 2023 | $66,263 | 26,600 | | S 500 4MATIC | 2022 | $57,115 | 35,300 | | S 500 4MATIC | 2021 | $53,841 | 32,300 | ## W223 S-Class for sale now - [2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $170,169 · 7,412 mi · Walnut Creek, CA - [2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $185,411 · 5,922 mi · Hoffman Estates, IL - [2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $178,186 · 7,781 mi · North Olmsted, OH - [2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $240,298 · 1,023 mi · Cleveland, OH - [2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $172,991 · 8,250 mi · Sarasota, FL - [2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $179,676 · 3,836 mi · West Palm Beach, FL - [2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $199,800 · 9,247 mi · Miami, FL - [2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $180,147 · 29,951 mi · Miami, FL - [2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $189,995 · 6,123 mi · Reseda, CA - [2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $205,023 · 1,411 mi · Las Vegas, NV - [2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $189,402 · 6,764 mi · Alvin, TX - [2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $176,011 · 6,906 mi · Las Vegas, NV - [2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $129,000 · 20,047 mi · Ocean, NJ - [2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $214,014 · 108 mi · Troy, MI - [2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $271,197 · 745 mi · Pompano Beach, FL - [2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $210,783 · 5,081 mi · Broomfield, CO - [2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $179,023 · 12,428 mi · Las Vegas, NV - [2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $250,080 · 2,737 mi · Beverly Hills, CA - [2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $290,080 · 706 mi · Beverly Hills, CA - [2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, W223 Mercedes-Maybach S 680 4MATIC](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-mercedes-maybach-s-680-4matic): $190,749 · Murfreesboro, TN [Every used S-Class](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/used/mercedes-benz/s-class) ## Our verdict Aim for a 2024 to 2026 car, which CarScout rates highest and found with no recalls in its NHTSA data. Among the engines, the S 580 has been sold throughout the run, while the S 63 E Performance is the one with little track record. Treat 2021 and 2022 cars with caution. Whatever the year, walk away from a car that sags overnight, has handles or screens that misbehave, or has no record of the recall work. If you carry rear passengers, look for the Executive Rear Seat Package, and see [used Mercedes-Benz models](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/used/mercedes-benz) or the [cheapest S-Class listings](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cheapest/mercedes-benz/s-class) to compare cars by year. ## Sources We read these pages and checked every fact in this guide against them. The words are ours. Researched Oct 31, 2026. - [Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class W223 (2021-2026): Buyer's Guide | CarScout](https://usecarscout.com/blog/used-mercedes-benz-s-class-w223-buying-guide) (CarScout) - [Mercedes-Benz S500 W223 Reliability - Problems & Costs](https://www.carchecker.pro/reports/mercedes_s500_w223.html) (CarChecker) - [Buying Used: Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2021-2025)](https://www.carmag.co.za/news/buying-used-cars/buying-used-mercedes-benz-s-class-2021-2025/) (CarMag) - [W223 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (2020–present) | Octane Files](https://www.octanefiles.com/cars/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223) (Octane Files) - [Mercedes-Benz S500 W223 pre-viewing and inspection checklist](https://www.carchecker.pro/checklists/mercedes_s500_w223.pdf) (CarChecker) - [Mercedes-Benz S-Klasse W223 — All Engines, Problems & Buying Guide (2020–2025)](https://what-breaks.com/mercedes-benz/s-klasse-w223) (What Breaks) - [Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) (2020–now): common faults, service and costs](https://vin-service-planner.com/en/mercedes-benz-s-class-w223/) (VIN Service Planner) - [Campaign 2023040009: Rework the Primary Bulkhead Sealing, MY2021 S-Class (223)](https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2023/RCRIT-23V200-3010.pdf) (NHTSA) - [Recalls and owner complaints for the W223 S-Class](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) (NHTSA) ## Shop the W223 S-Class - [Used Mercedes-Benz S-Class for sale](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/used/mercedes-benz/s-class) (20) - [Mercedes-Benz S-Class price guide](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/prices/mercedes-benz/s-class) - [Cheapest Mercedes-Benz S-Class for sale](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/cheapest/mercedes-benz/s-class) - [Used Mercedes-Benz for sale](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/used/mercedes-benz) (1,860) ## More Mercedes-Benz buying guides - [Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W463, 2002 to 2018) buying guide](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/guides/mercedes-benz/g-class-w463) (2002 to 2018) - [Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W463A, 2019 on) buying guide](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/guides/mercedes-benz/g-class-w463a) (2019 on) - [Mercedes-AMG GT (C190) buying guide](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/guides/mercedes-benz/amg-gt) (2016 to 2023) - [Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG buying guide](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/guides/mercedes-benz/sls-amg) (2011 to 2015) - [All buying guides](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/guides) ## Latest Mercedes-Benz S-Class news - [Used Mercedes-Benz market is dominated by the G-Class, 1,701 of 1,860 cars](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/news/mercedes-benz-market-report-october-2026) (Oct 31, 2026): The brand has 549 cars rated great or good deals, and the AMG GT is the one model where comparable asking prices rose in the window we measured. [All car news](https://www.luxurycardeals.com/news) ## W223 S-Class: common questions ### What is the best W223 S-Class to buy? A 2024 to 2026 car is the one to look for. CarScout rates those years highest and found no recalls in its NHTSA data, while it marks 2021 and 2022 cars Caution. The S 63 E Performance has little multi-year track record. ### What goes wrong with the W223 S-Class? Air suspension leaks, MBUX screen glitches and early-car recalls are the main concerns. Stalling recalls cover 2021-2023 cars, and rear subframe weld recalls cover cars built from September 2021 to January 2022. ### Is the W223 S-Class reliable? Mostly, once software updates and recalls are done, but early cars are weaker. CarScout marks 2021 and 2022 with caution, and the air suspension and hybrid systems have published repair figures that are high. ### How much does it cost to run a W223 S-Class? Expect oil changes every 5,000 to 7,000 miles in practice, plus occasional big repairs. CarChecker quotes €1,100-1,500 per air strut plus €300-500 labor, and €1,000-1,500 for a compressor installed. ### How much is a used W223 S-Class? Asking prices for the 20 cars we track for sale right now run from $129,000 to $290,080, with a median of $189,699. Model year, version, mileage and history move the price most; the prices by model year and fair values on this page show where a car should sit. ### Has the W223 S-Class been recalled? NHTSA lists 4 recall campaigns filed for the 2021 to 2027 model years as of Oct 31, 2026, the latest for service brakes, hydraulic. Not every car was affected, so check the VIN of any car you're considering at nhtsa.gov/recalls. --- Source: Luxury Car Deals, https://www.luxurycardeals.com/. Prices are live asking prices from US dealer listings in our latest scan, not sale prices. Cite as "Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223) buying guide", Luxury Car Deals, https://www.luxurycardeals.com/guides/mercedes-benz/s-class-w223 (updated Oct 1, 2026). Site map for assistants: https://www.luxurycardeals.com/llms.txt.