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2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 0safety recalls
- 25owner complaints
- 4crash reports
- 0fire reports
- 14%fail the UK MOT
25 complaints, against an average of 22 for the other 13 Mercedes-Benz S-Class model years.
Every Mercedes-Benz S-Class model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The components named most often in the 25 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
Has the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class been recalled?
NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class as of October 25, 2026. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN before you rely on this.
Is the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles the panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof might not have been bonded correctly during a…On affected vehicles the panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof might not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.
Risk: On affected vehicles the panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof might not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.
Fix: Check the front fixed element of the panoramic sliding sunroof and replace if necessary.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles the aluminium bolts of the steering gear could corrode and break due to the intrusion of moisture.
Risk: On affected vehicles the aluminium bolts of the steering gear could corrode and break due to the intrusion of moisture.
Fix: Replace the steering gear mounting bolts on the affected vehicles with steel bolts. Should the bolts break or already be broken change the steering gear.
UK DVSAVehicles with a panoramic sunroofthe polycarbonate panel may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair
Risk: The polycarbonate panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.
Fix: Remove the bonded panel and install a new polycarbonate panel if required.
UK DVSAEngine control unit software to be updated
Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.
Fix: Update the relevant control unit's software and if necessary replace the NOx sensors.
UK DVSATo achieve an improvement in the emissions via software updates
Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.
Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual
UK DVSATo improve emissions of the affected vehicles.certain calibrations of functionalities must be changed in the engine management
Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.
Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual
UK DVSAFaulty control unit may cause vehicle to perform outside specification
Risk: Where a control unit coding was updated in a workshop between 3 December 2016 and 5 December 2016 the coding may not correspond to the specification and may trigger unplanned action in the vehicle. The safety and emissions systems may not react as design intent.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the software in the corresponding control units.
UK DVSAAutomatic transmission may malfunction
Risk: It has been identified on certain 6 cylinder diesel engine/9 speed automatic transmission vehicles the starter/alternator/transmission wiring harness may be too close to the exhaust system. If it is then there is a risk that the wiring harness may suffer heat damage which can result in the transmission inadvertently selecting neutral whilst driving the Auto P function or the manual P function in the transmission not being available. The manually operated parking brake will still function.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to check and if required reroute or replace the wiring harness. The type of action is dependant on the amount of damage present.
UK DVSAAuto stop/start may shutdown without warning
Risk: Incorrect software may have been installed during manufacture. This may cause erratic idling when coming to a halt and the engine may shut down. Consequently the auto start/stop may not operate as intended.
Fix: On affected vehicles update the powertrain control software.
UK DVSAStop start engine may not restart
Risk: The excess length of the wiring harness to the engine control unit could result in a faulty camshaft signal. This faulty camshaft signal may lead to an unintentional cancellation of the automatic starting procedure after automatic engine stop of the automatic start/stop system. In the event of a faulty camshaft signal the engine would not restart as expected following the stop procedure but can be manually restarted immediately by engaging the transmission selector lever position N or D and by operating the ignition key or the start button (with keyless go). Depending on the traffic situation however an increased accident hazard could result.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and rework the wiring harness to the engine control unit on the affected vehicles as a precautionary measure.
UK DVSACombustion engine may fail to start
Risk: Incorrect software may cause the combustion engine to non start during use. Restarting the vehicle by using the key will reset the system
Fix: On affected vehicles update the software for the fuel control unit.
UK DVSAFront seat belts may not perform as intended
Risk: The front seat belts may have been wrongly installed and may not fully perform as intended.
Fix: On affected vehicles check installation and correct if necessary.
UK DVSAAirbag may not perform as specified
Risk: The front passenger air bag module may not have been installed according to specifications. If activated it is possible that separate parts of the passenger air bag module may become loose and may detach.
Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace air bag module
EU Safety GateThe three aluminium screws of the steering box may corrode due to exposure to spray water and aggressive road-grit (salt) used for melting…The three aluminium screws of the steering box may corrode due to exposure to spray water and aggressive road-grit (salt) used for melting ice. Advanced corrosion could weaken the screws, leading to potential breakage during manoeuvring or parking. If all fixing screws fail, the power-assisted steering could detach, resulting in a loss of power steering and an increased risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe aluminium bolts of the steering box may break.This can lead to detachment of the steering box from the power block, creating a risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe polycarbonate roof panel located between the windscreen and the panoramic roof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle…The polycarbonate roof panel located between the windscreen and the panoramic roof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair. In such cases, the adhesive bonding could gradually deteriorate and the panel could become detached from the vehicle, posing a risk to other road users.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe power-assisted steering control units may have been fitted with defectively welded contacts.As a result, a permanent electrical connection between the contacts cannot be guaranteed, which could lead to loss of support to the power-assisted steering and thus an increased risk of accidents.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe front seatbelts were installed on the wrong sides and may not lock as required.In the event of an accident there is an increased risk of injury.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe gasket seal for the engine's chain tensioner may display incorrect settling behaviour.Over time, this may result in the chain tensioner detaching from the threaded hole on the cylinder head and the leakage of engine oil. The loss of large amounts of engine oil may contaminate the road, leading to a possible hazard for traffic following behind.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateIt is possible that the seat belt end mount connection has not been fitted correctly to the front seats.As a result, the restraining effect may be compromised under heavy stress.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
How often does the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2014, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class owners report?
12 of the 25 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
We almost got into crash the other day, our 8-year-old kid got our attention that rear seatbelt got very loose and did NOT retract back at all. he almost hit his head. when I asked him if it has been like this he said no, it was tight when I buckled it in. We tried several times to retract it manually with no luck. I checked online and I have seen people complaining about the same thing. we have been lucky we didn't hit the other car then my child will be seriously injured. This is a very serious safety requirement. I hope Mercedes Benz will take this very seriously as well, before others get…
The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that the brake pads were corroded. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was confirmed that the brake pads were severely corroded. The contact was informed that the brake pads needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the same diagnostic was provided to the contact. The contact was informed that the brake pads needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The…
Rearvpassenger seat just stopped working. Won't retract.
The vehicle dropped at front axle areas on both sides. The next message stated "Vehicle to Low". Vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Could not drive regular speed limit almost got rear ended. Reproduced i am not sure, there is however about 3 manufacturer communications on this issue. There have not been any inspections relating to this issue with insurance. The manufacturer Mercedes previously inspected and replaced several issues relating to suspension on this vehicle type. There are at least 40-60 product model vehicle types that have this issue. The vehicle i drive is one of…
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? -Steering :Electrical Power Assist , Drive Shaft
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2014 MERCEDES-BENZ S550. WHILE THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS IDLING AT A RED LIGHT, ANOTHER VEHICLE RAN A STOP SIGN AND T-BONED HIS VEHICLE. NONE OF THE FRONTAL AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE POLICE WAS PRESENT AND FILED REPORT NUMBER: 190911002273. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ALSO PRESENT. THERE WERE NO INJURIES; HOWEVER, MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS SOUGHT LATER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A BODY SHOP. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE INSURANCE COMPANY DEEMED THE VEHICLE DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE…
ACCORDING TO THE RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 16V899000 AND THE VEHICLE INSPECTION REPORT FROM THE LOCAL MERCEDES DEALERSHIP SHOW AS AN IDENTICAL ISSUE. HOWEVER, MY VEHICLE IS NOT IDENTIFIED AS APART OF THE RECALL. THE RECALL STATES THE ISSUE IS DUE TO THE STEERING CONTROL UNIT NOT BEING SOLDERED PROPERLY. DIFFICULT TO THINK THIS FALLS UNDER NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. I WILL GET THE REPAIR DONE BEGRUDGINGLY, THOUGH IT WOULD BE NICE IF MERCEDES WOULD HAVE STOOD BEHIND ITS RECALL.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 MERCEDES-BENZ S550. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH MERGING ON THE INTERSTATE, THE SUN ROOF SHATTERED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER (MERCEDES-BENZ OF MOBILE, 3060 DAUPHIN ST, MOBILE, AL, 36606) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE SUN ROOF FAILED. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE VEHICLE ALSO SUSTAINED BODY DAMAGE TO THE HOOD AND TRUNK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS STATED THAT THEY WOULD GIVE THE CONTACT A CALL BACK AND SEND AN INVESTIGATOR. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO SUSTAINED A CUT ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE…
REAR BRAKE PADS INCORRECTLY INSTALLED FROM THE FACTORY. BOTH INSIDE BRAKE PADS WERE INSTALLED ON THE REAR CALIPER FOUND THAT PADS ON THE RIGHT REAR WERE WORN DOWN TO 4-5MM ALSO FOUND THAT RIGHT REAR ROTOR HAS UNEVEN GROOVES FROM BRAKE PADS.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 MERCEDES BENZ S550. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE DOWNSHIFTED AND SUDDENLY THERE WAS A HARD SHIFT WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED OR WHEN STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE NEAR THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE TILT FUNCTION FEATURE ON THE RIGHT PASSENGER MIRROR FAILED. WHEN FUNCTIONING PROPERLY, THE RIGHT PASSENGER MIRROR TILTED DOWNWARD AND TO THE RIGHT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED IN REVERSE; THEREFORE, THE DRIVER COULD SEE ALL OBJECTS TO THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF…
AGGRAVATING NOISE ASSOCIATED WITH HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMPS, TICK, TICK, TICKING NOISE AT ANY SPEED. COMPLAINED TO DEALER, BUT DESPITE EXCHANGING PUMPS, NOISE PERSISTS. COMPLAINED TO MBUSA, WAS TOLD THIS WAS A 'NORMAL NOISE'. SOUNDS LIKE AN OXYMORON TO ME. VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH CAR NOISE AND RESPONSE TO MY PLEA FOR HELP. *TR
I PURCHASED A NEW 2014 MERCEDES S550 AND THE DAY AFTER PURCHASE, THE AIRBAG MALFUNCTION LIGHT CAME ON. I SET UP AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THIS CORRECTED, AND WAS TOLD IT WAS FIXED. A COUPLE OF WEEKS LATER, I WAS TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 20MPH, APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION WHERE I DID NOT HAVE A STOP SIGN. I NOTICED A LARGE SUV TRAVELING EAST BOUND AT EXCESSIVE SPEEDS (GUESSING 35-40), WHICH DID NOT APPEAR TO BE STOPPING, BUT COULD NOT STOP IN TIME TO AVOID THE COLLISION. THE SUV IMPACTED THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF MY VEHICLE AT FULL SPEED. MY VEHICLE SPUN AND WAS HIT AGAIN AT THE SIDE AND REAR…
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2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: questions owners ask
Is the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 25 complaints with NHTSA about the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class; the most common categories were service brakes (3, 12%), steering (3, 12%), air bags (2, 8%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year. 4 complaints mention a crash, 2 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
Across 25 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are service brakes (12% of complaints), steering (12% of complaints), air bags (8% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (8% of complaints), power train (8% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class have any recalls?
As of October 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Check your own S-Class
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2014 only.