2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Safety Report
2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class shows low complaint volume but includes reports of fire, engine failure, and unexpected vehicle behavior; no NHTSA crash test ratings available.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Reliability Score
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Fire Under Driver'S Seat Report of a burning-leather odor and smoke in the cabin, followed by a small fire beneath the driver's seat. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Unexpected Vehicle Behavior/Loss Of Control Car reportedly went 'out of control,' with side mirrors failing, seat belt tightening unexpectedly, and the car refusing to operate. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Engine Failure/Vibration Abnormal vibration upon starting, diagnosed as engine failure. Another report of jerking upon acceleration with a battery auxiliary warning. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Brake System Malfunction Rear brake actuator seized and became inoperable. Also, reports of brakes not holding well, requiring double pumping, and almost causing accidents. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Fuel Leak/Odor Strong fuel odor detected, with fuel leaking from the fuel rail. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Steering Column Adjustment Issues Steering column regularly sticks in the full 'up' position, requiring multiple servicing attempts. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Seat Belt/Airbag System Malfunction Rear driver's side seat belt/airbag combo locked in place and would not retract. Also, seat belt tightening unexpectedly while driving. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Shifter/Transmission Control Issues Shifter would not change car into Park, Neutral, or Reverse, instead operating the navigation map cursor. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class:
Two complaints related to engine issues, including abnormal vibration, engine failure diagnosis, and jerking with battery warnings.
Two complaints regarding brake system failures, including a seized rear brake actuator and general brake effectiveness issues.
Two complaints categorized as 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER,' one describing the car being 'out of control' and another about general technology problems.
One complaint about a strong fuel odor and fuel leaking from the fuel rail.
One complaint about a locked seat belt/airbag combo and another about unexpected seat belt tightening.
One complaint regarding the steering column adjustment mechanism sticking.
One complaint about keyless entry problems and the car locking with the key inside.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a low number of complaints (15 total), with 1 crash and 1 fire reported, but no injuries or deaths. However, NHTSA has not provided crash test ratings for this vehicle, so its performance in controlled crash scenarios is unknown. While the complaint volume is low, some reported issues like engine failure, brake problems, and a vehicle fire are serious.
What are common problems for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, each with two complaints, are related to the ENGINE, SERVICE BRAKES, and 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' categories. Specific problems include engine failure, seized brake actuators, and unexpected vehicle behavior. Other issues, each with one complaint, involve the fuel system (leaks), airbags/seat belts (malfunctions), steering (sticking column), and electrical system (keyless entry).
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
According to the provided NHTSA data, there are no recalls listed for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
How does the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class perform in crash tests?
NHTSA has not provided crash test ratings for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover ratings are all listed as 'N/A' (Not Applicable).
Have there been any fires reported in the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
Yes, there has been one fire reported to NHTSA for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The complaint describes a fire beneath the driver's seat after a burning-leather odor and smoke were detected in the cabin.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but presence of serious issues like engine failure and a vehicle fire, potential buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a Mercedes-Benz specialist, focusing on engine, brake, and electrical systems, especially since no NHTSA crash test ratings are available.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The data includes 15 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.