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2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2017 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
- 22owner complaints
- 0crash reports
- 0fire reports
- 12%fail the UK MOT
22 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 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The components named most often in the 22 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
Has the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class been recalled?
NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2017 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 2017 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 DVSACoolant pump might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit
Risk: On certain vehicles with a Diesel engine the coolant pump which is controlled by vacuum might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit.
Fix: Update the software of the coolant pump and replace the electrical switch valve on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
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 DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe communication module may be deactivated
Risk: The communication module may be deactivated
Fix: Carry out a check of the configuration of the communication module on affected vehicles and if necessary activate the communication module.
UK DVSAThe emergency call system (ecall) does not meet the specification
Risk: On affected vehicles the software of the communication module for the emergency call system does not meet the specification
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system
UK DVSAThe seat belt warning function does not meet the specification
Risk: The seat belt warning function does not meet the specification
Fix: Activate the correct seat belt warning scenario in the instrument cluster
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 DVSAThe material of two closure plugs on the engine may not withstand the maximum loads whilst driving
Risk: The material of two closure plugs on the engine might not withstand the maximum loads while driving.
Fix: Rework the closure plugs on the engine on the affected vehicles
UK DVSAThe software of the radar control unit may not meet specification
Risk: ; The software of the radar control unit might not meet the specification
Fix: Update the software of the radar sensor control unit on the affected vehicles.
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 DVSAA reset in the cpc control unit could occur whilst driving
Risk: The ECO Start-Stop function may be disabled and cause the vehicle to stall.
Fix: The affected vehicles are to be recalled and the software updated.
UK DVSAHands off detection function might not meet specifications
Risk: The Hands-off-Detection function (HoD) might not meet specifications.
Fix: The position of the steering boot will be checked and corrected if necessary.
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 DVSACertain parameters of the active lane keeping assist within the multipurpose camera software may not meet specification
Risk: Active Lane Keeping Assist might not initiate a brake intervention in case of an unwanted lane change.
Fix: Update the multipurpose camera software of affected vehicles.
UK DVSATwo nuts attaching the busbars within the prefuse box in the trunk may not have been installed
Risk: Two nuts attatching the busbars within the prefuse box may not have been installed
Fix: Check the prefuse box and replace if necessary on affected vehicles
UK DVSAFront seat belt tensioners may not function
Risk: The front seatbelt pre-tensioner ignitors may not perform as expected. This could increase the risk of injury to the seat occupants. The lock function of the seatbelts is not impaired.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace seatbelts with quality assured units.
UK DVSARight front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification
Risk: The right front seat belt pretensioner may not conform to specification . This may adversely affect it's operation in the event of an accident.
Fix: Replace the pretensioner on affected vehicles.
UK DVSALeft front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification
Risk: The propellant mix in certain seatbelt pre-tensioners ignitors may be incorrect. If the front seatbelt pre-tensioners are deployed the lock function of the pre-tensioners cannot be guaranteed.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the front seatbelts that are likely to be affected.
UK DVSASome occupant safety systems may malfunction in the event of a collision
Risk: Due to incorrect wiring assembly the vehicles main power supply is disconnected after airbag deployment. This will affect the operation of vehicle safety functions such as automatically unlocking doors. The SRS systems are still functional.
Fix: On affected vehicles carry out manufacturer's recommended modification.
UK DVSAOil leak from turbocharger feed pipe.
Risk: Under certain conditions the oil feed pipe to the turbocharger may leak.Oil may contact hot components and there is a risk of fire.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace the oil feed line to the turbocharger.
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.
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 vacuum-controlled coolant pump may not be tightly sealed between the coolant and vacuum circuits.This may result in the coolant leaking into the vacuum circuit leading to an electrochemical reaction, increasing the risk of fire.
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 GateA trapped particle may damage the sealing between the fuel rail and fuel injector, which could cause fuel to leak into the engine…A trapped particle may damage the sealing between the fuel rail and fuel injector, which could cause fuel to leak into the engine compartment. Consequently, leaking fuel may come into contact with hot parts of the engine, increasing the risk of fire.
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 material used in two closure plugs on the engine might not be able to withstand the maximum load under dynamic driving conditions,…The material used in two closure plugs on the engine might not be able to withstand the maximum load under dynamic driving conditions, allowing up to 9 liters of engine oil to escape around the plugs. Consequently, the escaped oil could leak onto the road, posing a risk to the following traffic.
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 fixing screw connecting the base holder of the manual control device may not be correctly fitted.This can impair the control over the vehicle, increasing the 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 GateOn certain vehicles, the nuts to attach the conductor rails inside the fuse box in the boot may not have been installed.This could lead to increased contact resistance between the conductor rails and, as a consequence, cause a fire or failure in the engine functioning, seat belt functions and the dashboard, leading to an increased risk of accident and 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 GateIn the event of a crash, the disconnection of the power supply by the pyrofuse prevents the automatic unlocking of the doors and the…In the event of a crash, the disconnection of the power supply by the pyrofuse prevents the automatic unlocking of the doors and the operation of other safety features. This could increase the risk of injury for the occupants.
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 GateIn the event of an accident involving the deployment of the driver airbag, the airbag might fail to open as intended, thus increasing the…In the event of an accident involving the deployment of the driver airbag, the airbag might fail to open as intended, thus increasing the risk of injury to the driver.
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 GatePoorly installed electrical system wiring in the passenger compartment could lead to a short-circuit and fire.
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 propellant mixing ratio in certain seat-belt pre-tensioner igniters may be incorrect.As a result, in the event of an accident where the front seat-belt pre-tensioners are activated, the pre-tensioners would not provide the restraint performance required if the igniter did not ignite as intended. This could put the occupants at a greater 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
How often does the 2017 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 2017, 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 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class owners report?
12 of the 22 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.
Steering wheel will move in and out, but has stopped moving up and down. The steering wheel is stuck in the UP position. This has caused me to readjust all my seat settings and has made it more difficult to see the dash.
The leather dashboard came off. We were offered to fix it for $6,000, even though the car had an extended warranty through the dealership. Mercedes corporate and the dealership came back and said they would fix it for $3,000. We reluctantly paid the $3,000 to have the dashboard fixed. A year later, the same defect occurred, and the Mercedes dealership said there is no warranty on the work done. We went back to Mercedes corporate, and they offered a 20% discount on the original $6,000 to fix the same problem. My concern is that because the leather on the dashboard is coming off, it can…
The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated while the vehicle was in for routine maintenance, the mechanic discovered that the front driver's side CV-boot had cracked and was leaking oil. The contact was advised that the CV-boot could cause the front axle to eventually fail. The contact was advised that the front axle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 76,000.
I filled up my vehicle gas tank on [XXX] and immediately after pulling out of the gas station the engine symbol appeared on the instrument panel. On 5/23/24, I took my 2017 Mercedes Benz S550 4matic to Mercedes-Benz of Alexandria, Alexandria, VA for service. After three hours of waiting the service tech, Chantell Kirby [XXX], informed me that I needed a fuel pump and tank and the cost would be $6,184.94. Please understand that my vehicle has less than 68,000 miles on it. The fuel tank you a major component of this very expensive vehicle. I have contacted Mercedes Benz corporate at…
The dashboard is separating where the airbag is on the passenger side and also the driver side which could deploy the airbag
I was sold a vehicle by a dealership with a busted gas tank. It appears to have been an attempt to repair it with patching material. I am unsure if the defect was a result of manufacturing versus acquired damage. My safety is at risk because of leaking gas that could potentially ignite and inhaling strong gas fumes that could impact my lungs and health. The fuel tank damage has been confirmed by a mechanic and documented. It has not been inspected by any other entity while in my possession other than reported inspection by the dealership. I secured the vehicle on [XXX] from the dealership with…
B Camshaft position timing over-advanced or system performance Bank1 A Camshaft position timing over-advanced or system performance Bank 2 and Mercedes Benz didn't want to fix this problem and just wanted to change out the engine for 50 thousand dollars. the car is a 2017 w222 Mercedes Benz s550 s Class with a m278 engine.
Had my S550 into this dealership two (2) consecutive years for a power steering rack issue that ended up being related to rodent damage. The first time it happened the dealership replaced the wiring free of charge after discovering it, after initially telling me that the rack itself would have to be replaced. This year both the wiring and the rack itself needed to be replaced, and I was made to go through my auto insurance to have it fixed. My sons Cadillac, and my girlfriends Range Rover Sport share the same driveways with me, and have had no rodent damage. I did a bit of research and found…
The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH and closing the sunroof, he heard a cracking sound and the sunroof failed to close properly. The contact stated he attempted to open and close the sunroof however, the sunroof only partially closed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed. The contact was informed that the failure was similar to the failure mentioned in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V197000 (Structure). The contact was then referred to the NHTSA to file a complaint. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure…
I have observed on multiple occasions when the vehicle is brought to a complete stop during driving in traffic, the engine will stall / shut off. When this occurs the engine has to be re-started with the ignition switch to be able to drive the car again. Car does not show any check engine error and Mercedes Benz service claims that they cannot replicate the issue. During the course of driving the car for the past 12000 miles I have observed this issue between 6-8 times. In at least 3 occasions this occurred while driving on the freeway and the traffic came to a sudden halt. Separately the…
2017 MERCEDES BENZ S550. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DAMAGED WINDSHIELD. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE WINDSHIELD CONTINUES TO CRACK. THE WINDSHIELD HAD TO BE REPAIRED 3 TIMES IN 3 MONTHS. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE STATING THE FAILURES WERE BAD LUCK. *JS
STARTING OUT FROM AN INTERSECTION THE ENTIRE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM DIED, NO ENGINE, NO LIGHTS, NO ABILITY TO OPEN TRUNK, NOTHING. I AM REPORTING THIS BECAUSE I FEAR SUCH AN EVENT COULD BE LIFE-THREATENING, EG. IF IT HAPPENED WHILE TRAVELING AT A HIGH SPEED. I BELIEVE THE AIRBAGS MAY HAVE BEEN DISABLED ALONG WITH ALL OTHER ELECTRICAL. DEALER REPORTS THERE WAS A SIMILAR EVENT WITH ANOTHER OF THE SAME CAR ONE WEEK EARLIER, AND THAT IT IS APPARENTLY CAUSED BY A CONTACT FOR THE BATTERY GROUND "BURNING OUT." I BELIEVE THERE SHOULD BE AN URGENT RECALL.
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2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: questions owners ask
Is the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 22 complaints with NHTSA about the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class; the most common categories were air bags (3, 13.6%), steering (3, 13.6%), electrical system (2, 9.1%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year.
What are the most common problems with the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
Across 22 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are air bags (13.6% of complaints), steering (13.6% of complaints), electrical system (9.1% of complaints), engine (9.1% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (9.1% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class have any recalls?
As of October 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2017 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 2017 only; combines NHTSA's entries for S-CLASS and S-CLASS HYBRID.