Can an Average Guy Afford to Own an AMG Car? The Costs of Driving a 2005 Mercedes-Benz S55 W220

Автокөліктер мен көлік құралдары

SOLD Short answer: No. Longer answer: Maybe.
Cars like this 2005 Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG have come down from their sticker price - way down. From an original MSRP in the $120K range, examples like this can be had for 10 cents on the dollar - a pretty amazing supercar bargain, considering its features and performance - 492HP from a supercharged 5.4 liter V8, 0-60 in 4.5, a quarter mile in the mid 12s, skidpad like a Corvette, and a host of luxury, safety, and convenience features. This is an amazing car.
But can the everyday guy afford to own it without breaking the bank? Probably not, or certainly not while maintaining it to concours levels. The biggest offender is the standard ABC sport suspension system, with costs running in to the multiple thousands. Other systems aren't quite as expensive, but can still nickel and dime you to death.
That said, there are some ways that it can be done, with a little bit of luck and taking an active role in repairs and maintenance. Firstly, starting with a good example is essential, as many of the things that break on these cars will already have been addressed. Secondly, having a good mechanic that you know and trust will help keep costs down, as an unscrupulous shop will take advantage of an owner who doesn't take the time to know what things should cost. And finally, knowing what to fix and when to fix it will help defray the cost of ownership - for instance, if the door closing assist stops working, just close the door a little harder until you can feel comfortable spending the $1100 to repair it. If you've got a little valve cover leak that's not dripping on the exhaust or ground, let it ride for a while until you're addressing some other leaks on the car, and do it all together. Using your brain and having a strategy will go a long way toward keeping ownership costs down.
Below is a list of some of the maintenance and major repairs on these cars, and what the (retail) cost of fixing them would be at a fair shop:
Maintenance
Servicing every 10k miles
A Service: $250
B Service: $700
Spark plugs at 80-100k miles (16 of them): $500-600
Transmission flush every 60k miles: $400-450
Repairs
ABC System:
Replacement struts (per wheel): $1000-1100
Replacement Pump: $2000
Replacement pressure line: $1000
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets: $800
Rear main seal: $1200
Other repairs:
Supercharger pulley replacement: $700-850
PSE (vacuum) pump: $600-700
Transmission conductor plate: $800-900
Shifter electronics rebuild: $600
How much or how little of the repairs you have to do depend on the prior maintenance of the car, how it's driven, and luck. Whether it's worth the risk or not to drive a car as incredible as the S55 AMG is a decision only the buyer can make.

Пікірлер: 465

  • @dwalker112
    @dwalker1124 жыл бұрын

    The styling of the 05 S55 AMG is just timeless. 15 years later and it still looks modern and beautiful.

  • @ArturoPerez-si2xk

    @ArturoPerez-si2xk

    4 жыл бұрын

    It's just wonderful, but honestly if I could take Bentley Continental Flying Spur

  • @cerebralmindgame9818

    @cerebralmindgame9818

    4 жыл бұрын

    Exactly. It's just lacking in modern technology.

  • @claudiocatarino4909

    @claudiocatarino4909

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@ArturoPerez-si2xk diferent price ranges

  • @maxboya

    @maxboya

    Жыл бұрын

    @@ArturoPerez-si2xk drove one for a few months they are awful cars honestly

  • @t.l.robinson2162

    @t.l.robinson2162

    8 ай бұрын

    I feel the exact same way every time I look at my 2006 S55.

  • @chrisexperience7
    @chrisexperience74 жыл бұрын

    “Essential” employee. I can agree. You help us maintain sanity in this lockdown madness.

  • @jeffwolfe4058

    @jeffwolfe4058

    4 жыл бұрын

    Democrat madness. Thank God I'm in a GOP governor state can still go about my day as a free individual.

  • @chrisexperience7

    @chrisexperience7

    4 жыл бұрын

    jeff wolfe you must be a special kind of stupid.

  • @anonimous2451

    @anonimous2451

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@chrisexperience7 Yea the kind that has a brain that works. No brain dead libtards here.

  • @chrisexperience7

    @chrisexperience7

    4 жыл бұрын

    Anon Imous you mean fecal matter for brains I bet. Go back to school and try again.

  • @airkingflyer3515
    @airkingflyer35154 жыл бұрын

    Also another thing to take into consideration is that if you can do some of the maintenance yourself, like oil changes or brakes., absolutely worth buying a car like this.

  • @declaredsnow

    @declaredsnow

    2 жыл бұрын

    thats what Im telling myself. Hell I gutted and spread my Volvo in my garage not knowing shit about cars and that thing has now done 80k KM the last 3 years without much issues. learned a lot to. really want a V8 Mercedes sedan / coupe as a summer car but IDK. the air suspension crap scares me lol.

  • @dannykelly3617

    @dannykelly3617

    2 жыл бұрын

    People are so scared of air suspension but it’s fairly simple. You have a pump to pressurize the system, lines that deliver air to the struts, and the struts support the car. The other small stuff are height sensors and valves witch are dirt cheep. I’ve owned 2 cars with air suspension and struts/pumps last 10 years and 100k miles. A few grand every 10 years is not so scary

  • @FryChicken

    @FryChicken

    Жыл бұрын

    HAH. HAH, no lol

  • @NubianStarr

    @NubianStarr

    Жыл бұрын

    @@dannykelly3617 You're right, you gotta pay to play. It comes down to what condition you find one in. As long as it has been fairly maintained and you can do a lot of the more simple fixes yourself this car is not scary to own. Especially nowadays, you can find a lot of parts cheap on Amazon and eBay.

  • @bricktonyb
    @bricktonyb4 жыл бұрын

    "Look at Marty, Who goes out like that?" Sighs heavily. Dont ever change Bill.

  • @Austin86646

    @Austin86646

    4 жыл бұрын

    lol what was even wrong with what dude was wearing? The shoes even matched.

  • @Jesuosivwi

    @Jesuosivwi

    4 жыл бұрын

    Sounded like my favourite uncle there.

  • @billace90
    @billace904 жыл бұрын

    “....I think they have a nest up there where they are breeding little killers...”. LOL!!!! Bill, besides your honest reviews, your funny comments help us keep going through this insanity. Thanks a lot and stay safe!

  • @lyndacompton1846

    @lyndacompton1846

    Жыл бұрын

    That's what I was thinking plus they're not birds that are native to the US they were imported from Europe just like the car

  • @SpencerF6
    @SpencerF64 жыл бұрын

    "It's going to be hot as balls...." -------I've liked the video as soon as I heard that!!

  • @SavedbyHim

    @SavedbyHim

    4 жыл бұрын

    NIce, you like balls...

  • @carscloseup
    @carscloseup4 жыл бұрын

    “we got an organ donor driving”😂😂😂

  • @jb3274

    @jb3274

    4 жыл бұрын

    CarsCloseUp can u expalin the joke? I dont get it

  • @jb3274

    @jb3274

    4 жыл бұрын

    @Никита В. o damn thats cold. Thanks m8

  • @scottthompson6800

    @scottthompson6800

    4 жыл бұрын

    OD’s...sad but very true! My best friend lost his life a couple weeks after my wife and I begged him to wear a helmet, slow down and quit driving impaired (crazy). He loved life on the edge right up to the end...he was 23. Massive internal injuries but it was brain damage that got him...THAT is cold!

  • @KrolKaz

    @KrolKaz

    3 жыл бұрын

    Most motorcycle drivers end up as organ donors

  • @rudolphguarnacci197
    @rudolphguarnacci1974 жыл бұрын

    Love the asides more than the review itself. Bill needs another channel just for his life views, perspective. All the nonsense going on, we need a guy like this that speaks to us.

  • @jvcardesign

    @jvcardesign

    4 жыл бұрын

    ahaahahahahahaha

  • @AlmightyyKevv

    @AlmightyyKevv

    4 жыл бұрын

    I agree, I hope he sees this

  • @marc7983

    @marc7983

    9 ай бұрын

    why? He'd give an opinion and be cancelled in a week

  • @HeCute_
    @HeCute_4 жыл бұрын

    Always hilarious hearing Bill talk about Marty and the detailer

  • @scottwilkins4544

    @scottwilkins4544

    4 жыл бұрын

    4.2 Jeep and the birds!!! 😂

  • @pauli6043

    @pauli6043

    4 жыл бұрын

    It's not a true Bill video, unless he busts balls about the detailer's work!

  • @fillup316

    @fillup316

    4 жыл бұрын

    the detailer ribbing, marty ribbing, gun storage, sinister birds, florida weather and making fun of canadians. truly hallmarks of his channel.

  • @kiran27
    @kiran274 жыл бұрын

    And what a storehouse of information Bill has on the automotive world , looks he might be driving since he was 10 The format of all the videos is brilliant This is the usual format Good morning , This is Bill from Auto Europa Naples 1.) Weather update - shouldn’t be “muggy “ or “humid” 2.) Bird hit update 3.) Exterior of the car full around , special emphasis on the chrome , large brakes , fit and finish 4.) Boot of the car - should be large enough for several kit bags 5.) Engine bay - perfect, neat and detailed Always point out the “Stop” plug on the w123,126 ,140 and the 124 diesels 6.) Back seat with lumbar support 7.) Front seat- leather (usually nappa is mentioned) controls, all the buttons( abc, etc etc) 8.) Engine start usually with front door open for us to hear the growl of the superb engines 9.) Small drive within the city 10.) Sign off 11.) usually Marty gets caught for his dressing or his haircut The script is littered with superb references to intelligent humour and fantastic oblivious inferences. Never have we seen you Bill , we need to see you now and then and not just hear your voice Fact is we really enjoy your love for the MB’s and particularly for the older ones as well You keep us going Bill with your videos and script Have a great weekend, See you on Monday Perhaps need to do the drive to Naples (I live in Toronto) sometime to see your cars and yourself sometime Best regards Kiran

  • @805NAVE
    @805NAVE4 жыл бұрын

    Essential as an umbrella in a cocktail 😂😂

  • @faust451
    @faust4514 жыл бұрын

    Well for what's its worth, your videos have become essential viewing in my life; even the videos you make for cars I have no interest in are sensationally entertaining. Thanks much for all the time you put into making them. As for this video, bravo sir, a completely honest and accurate, no spin or BS bit of insight into a car like this. This S55, like many German cars that have a decade or two under their belts are still incredible to drive (in some regards better than their present-day equivalents), but as you perfectly stated, they have to be properly maintained. In my experience, frustrating things break at lower mileage intervals than say a Honda, things like gaskets or water pumps or ABS modules, but that is the pay-to-play price as you stated. Frustrating? Absolutely, but that first drive after fixing something frustrating totally erases the rage as you are instantly reminded how awesome the car drives when healthy. Also, thanks for stating numerous times the advice to find a trust-worthy independent mechanic familiar with the car. They exist and are well worth seeking out, a dealership will absolutely have no mercy on someone rolling in with a car like this.

  • @MrDare2bdifferent
    @MrDare2bdifferent4 жыл бұрын

    Who comes out of the house looking like that???? #classic ☠️☠️☠️

  • @gregorypalmer2147
    @gregorypalmer21474 жыл бұрын

    Bill, I think breaking down the cost of ownership of this AMG is an excellent way to help a potential buyer justify purchasing one. With a relatively low entry level price, one could just budget 1K to 2K a year to maintain. Well, maybe more like 2K to 3k. By the way, It's hard to keep someones attention on a youtube video for 22 min and 07 seconds but you did it! Keep up the good work!

  • @thatonesound2211
    @thatonesound22114 жыл бұрын

    I wont name any names *A Decisecond later* Andrew and Ian are their names

  • @chunkystyle
    @chunkystyle4 жыл бұрын

    With everyone locked inside the birds are plotting against us

  • @jvcardesign

    @jvcardesign

    4 жыл бұрын

    HAhaHahahahahah

  • @coltonw.9535
    @coltonw.95354 жыл бұрын

    I really appreciate how well done this video is. I’m 19, and I recently got into an E55 amg as my second car. I bought it from a Mercedes mechanic who was driving it as his daily and had done damn near everything to the vehicle that needed to be done. I researched the car for about two years before I felt confident enough to drop the cash for one. So far, the car has cost me almost nothing because I do all the work myself. Valve covers, oil changes, supercharger oil, brakes and flush etc. I make around 45k a year and haven’t had a problem affording this car yet. Well worth the buy! EDIT: I should also mention that all four corners have Arnott air struts, and those have a lifetime warranty to my knowledge.

  • @henryfeige8596

    @henryfeige8596

    9 ай бұрын

    I just bout an s55 just like this as my second car. It was also from an old master tech. he had done an ABC delete and a lot of vrp stuff. I got it for 6 grand. So far it is a dream come true, because my childhood dream car was a c63 and this thing is about as realistically close to it as possible.

  • @briansmith2570
    @briansmith25704 жыл бұрын

    NICELY DONE Bill, a bit of commonsense education on these cars has always been somewhat lacking. Good of you to take the time.

  • @fernandomatara4299
    @fernandomatara42994 жыл бұрын

    These reviews are therapeutic!!! I love them!! Can’t get enough of them.

  • @themarveluniverseonline
    @themarveluniverseonline3 жыл бұрын

    Two years ago, my CLS 55 lost a strut and I found a set of four airmatics for $700. My son replaced them so I saved some labor. Plugs and coil packs are gonna be easily over $2K with labor if you have to replace a significant number of them. Flush your transmission fluid! The trans is doing a lot of work in an AMG!

  • @jonasbaine3538

    @jonasbaine3538

    2 жыл бұрын

    people buy these abc cars cheap on a mazda budget and get surprised by mercedes maintenance! lol

  • @cwathne
    @cwathne4 жыл бұрын

    Ill add some info on the ABC suspension. They have a spring inside the strut will you cannot see. If they leak, car will not be noticable lower like the air suspension models. You will get a red warning light in the instrument cluster saying theres something wrong with the suspension, and u will notice that you ride like the shocks act like a old cadillac. Also, I had 1 strut leak on my 05 S55. I change ONLY that strut, its easy to do and the way you bleed the system is really easy. You just use the lift button inside to raise and lower the vehicle about 10 times and your all set. If the car is not level on all 4 cornes afterwards, you will need to get it to a dealer to calibrate it. But changing the strut/shock and bleeding it can be done by any "driveway mechanic". I have put 10k miles on mine after the one strut started to leak, and no other has failed yet. So dont buy into that if one starts, the others will follow shortly. Change 1 at a time, as said in this video, they are REALLY expensive. Oh yeah, the car is really a beast. Offers good comfort and performance into 1 package. If you select ABC sport mode the car seems 1500 pounds lighter cornering.

  • @volleyplay1
    @volleyplay14 жыл бұрын

    Bill, you make me laugh out loud! I truly love your videos I get some education and history on the vehicle and the manufacturer. Plus your sense of humor is out of this world. Keep up the good work!!

  • @TheDetermined1122
    @TheDetermined11224 жыл бұрын

    I own a 2003 S55 amg and I recently shelled $900 for the repair of the ABS System. Fortunately it didn't hurt. For the most part Lucky am I to have a Family member who is well versed in these Super Charged Monsters! YEEEEEEEESSS I LOVE MY MONSTER!!

  • @vahebaldemian

    @vahebaldemian

    3 жыл бұрын

    Hell yeah. They are like a woman, sometimes you gotta spend money on them to keep them happy

  • @karljaques744
    @karljaques7444 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much Bill for your videos. The world has literally stopped but it is reassuring that some things still go on! Thanks again!

  • @kurtgoar519
    @kurtgoar5194 жыл бұрын

    Keep them coming fabulous stuff as always have a great weekend. THANKS KG from Arizona

  • @TheDrgrim
    @TheDrgrim2 жыл бұрын

    this is one of da best car reviews i have seen well done keep it up

  • @BLacknesmonstaz
    @BLacknesmonstaz4 жыл бұрын

    I lasted 22 seconds, homeboy said " hot as balls" i died laughing and left. Got my fix

  • @rollingtones1
    @rollingtones14 жыл бұрын

    "R" in a German car means RESERVE, not REFILL. Great video!

  • @arminsteinke2301

    @arminsteinke2301

    4 жыл бұрын

    But you have to refill anyway.

  • @paulparoma

    @paulparoma

    4 жыл бұрын

    No, it means READY to empty your wallet.

  • @henrylo3893

    @henrylo3893

    4 жыл бұрын

    Lol, definitely. My 2005 S600 can drink $60 bucks a week with it's 12/13 mpg and filling premium gas.

  • @Baerchenization

    @Baerchenization

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@henrylo3893 Buy the cheap gas and add octane booster ;)

  • @Jesuosivwi

    @Jesuosivwi

    4 жыл бұрын

    Reserve is what my parents call it. I heard "refill" and I was like, yeah ok, maybe that's the new term for it.

  • @luxurreview
    @luxurreview4 жыл бұрын

    I love the direction of the channel!! I’m not here for the cars, I’m here to watch you.

  • @thethomasj1795

    @thethomasj1795

    4 жыл бұрын

    If Bill had a car there I really wanted I would fly down to buy it and rive it home, or at least have it shipped.

  • @luxurreview

    @luxurreview

    4 жыл бұрын

    the Thomas J I’m going to buy a Lexus SC430 when I get the money lol

  • @kevinfestner6126
    @kevinfestner61264 жыл бұрын

    Gorgeous. It is still expensive to maintain. Points well taken.

  • @tao5898
    @tao58984 жыл бұрын

    Bill, you are essential to all of us.. particularly during these insane times. One day after the whole pandemic stuff is over, if we’re still alive, I would like to have some beers with you. Keep them reviews coming!

  • @diver362
    @diver3624 жыл бұрын

    Bill, these videos are keeping me sane during this Coronavirus so thank you. If you happen to ever come across a Testarossa you NEED to review one! Also, just my opinion, I like how you deliver and do these videos on your own. I know having a camera man might be handy but your videos are perfect the way they are with just you speaking and commentating. Keep it up, thanks!

  • @larry8253
    @larry82534 жыл бұрын

    Bill, I really appreciate your reviews, thank you! 👌😊

  • @jonboy9912
    @jonboy99124 жыл бұрын

    Old Benz's are a treat to own and I have run them for 20 years without too much expense, buy a car with few previous owners and a full service history and you are going to be well unlucky if it lets you down - they are so well built and owners generally look after them. I have had a 2007 CLS 320 CDI since 2012 ans a 1999 SL320 for fun, bothe had one previous owner and full service records and while the CLS has started to cost me a little it has been and still is a great car to own and very rewarding to drive. Bill - have been a big fan for years and met you when were in Naples 2 years ago - you are essential viewing especially under the current circumstances - keep doing the one handed thing!

  • @Duncanmable
    @Duncanmable4 жыл бұрын

    First I really appreciate the honest review of the potential cost of repairs and second, I really appreciate that you wait for the engine temp to be up on all the cars you drive before hammering them. Shows you care more than most.

  • @kriscarmelo
    @kriscarmelo4 жыл бұрын

    Looks bad ass after all these years. Thanks for the breakdown in the description. I think the layout of the information is what people are looking for when they are looking at these types of vehicles and you've got it down perfectly.

  • @kiran27
    @kiran274 жыл бұрын

    One of my fav channels especially since I am a fan of the MB’s all thru the years

  • @ArturoPerez-si2xk

    @ArturoPerez-si2xk

    4 жыл бұрын

    I like it too, just like Autohaus Of Naples, Carwow, Carbuyer, What Car? Top Gear, Fifth Gear

  • @walterstrahota2956
    @walterstrahota29564 жыл бұрын

    Love your videos Bill. Your “essential “ in my opinion.

  • @NathanAlderGigaBITNate
    @NathanAlderGigaBITNate4 жыл бұрын

    Great video Bill, amazing car review channel !

  • @nuhuhassan4090
    @nuhuhassan40904 жыл бұрын

    Awesome car Bill...but to tell you the truth I mostly watch the vids for your highly entertaining commentary. Excellent Bill!

  • @lexuslife9751
    @lexuslife97514 жыл бұрын

    Great video, gorgeous Mercedes Benz!! Love all that wood trim inside, thank you so much!!

  • @Lianne459
    @Lianne4594 жыл бұрын

    My 1990 560 SEC can be maintained by my very capable indy mechanic. Every time it needs work he tells me his other clients ask him if its for sale. Most beautiful design Bruno Sacco ever made.

  • @masonichisenga3032
    @masonichisenga3032 Жыл бұрын

    Nice presentation. Thanks Bill.

  • @GhostTownSlime
    @GhostTownSlime3 жыл бұрын

    Nobody is here to present the car better. The long shots of the outside view, you have enough time to internalize the design and the soul of the car, before it finally goes to the engine and the interior. The whole, coupled with the knowledge and the peculiarity of Bill, makes the whole thing amusing and personable. Really good job, thank you Bill.

  • @bigchewnriddemnation859
    @bigchewnriddemnation8594 жыл бұрын

    When I’m ready to get my S55, I’m gonna make sure I get it from you. I absolutely love the way you review automobiles. You’re incredibly real and funny 😄 as hell 😂😂😂😂😂😂👍👍👍👍👍

  • @patrickveilleux1984
    @patrickveilleux19844 жыл бұрын

    Love your videos! Keep pumping out more content as I watch your videos weekly to get a laugh and check out some cool cars.

  • @brentfrancis9187
    @brentfrancis91874 жыл бұрын

    Great video! I love your accurate honesty.

  • @kevinjordan5773
    @kevinjordan57734 жыл бұрын

    Greetings from NZ Bill. Absolutely love your videos, not only are they informative,they're also very humorous.Helps pass the time of day while we are in our 24/7 total COVID 19 lockdown.Any chance you could do a video on the S Type Jaguar parked across from the Merc,thanks .Keep them coming and Dodge the virus.

  • @calibre18517
    @calibre185174 жыл бұрын

    Hi Bill, My son (12) and I love your videos. I am usually the one who watches them, but he gets a laugh from me regaling him with stories about what is going on at Auto Europa Naples (which I was doing every few days until recently on car rides to/from school). Even more so now, he and I both enjoy hearing all your hilarity for obvious reasons. He doesn't have any guns yet, but is comforted knowing that the German manufacturers in particular have thought ahead to provide plenty of storage spaces for same in their vehicles. Assuming we don't all die soon, end up in FEMA camps, or are permanently prevented from driving beyond the grocery store (50/50 odds), will plan on visiting from VA and buying a car from you in future. Will probably pay too much for car itself, and I am completely good with that. Keep going!!

  • @Theclassiccarnut
    @Theclassiccarnut4 жыл бұрын

    Great job, very knowledgeable and honest along with being funny.

  • @Michiganmike313
    @Michiganmike3134 жыл бұрын

    Awesome video!

  • @naturalraisins
    @naturalraisins4 жыл бұрын

    Great video. I’ve been eager to buy a 2000 ML55 AMG that has clearly been cared for and sorted, but because of this lockdown I can’t make the move quite yet.

  • @VentureAHighway
    @VentureAHighway3 жыл бұрын

    *Bill has the best car reviews on KZread haha. These cars still look great, even though they were considered a downgrade from the previous generation S Class. These cars lined up when I was teenager so these are the ones I looked at in awe in those high school years*

  • @lewwwalters31
    @lewwwalters314 жыл бұрын

    Great review Bill, looks like you have another town car to review as well, have a good weekend

  • @dennisburt2410
    @dennisburt24104 жыл бұрын

    Hey Bill thanks for reviewing this 2005 S55 AMG which is similar to my car which is a 2003 S600 V12 twin turbo 500HP. I'm very familiar with what you were saying about the ABC (active body control) hydraulic system. I bought it about 5 years ago from the 2nd owner with only 86K miles. It was originally a leased car then sold by the MBZ dealer as a "certified preowned" car to the 2nd owner. It came with proper maintenance records from new (part dealer maintained when it was leased then independent MBZ service) with the 2nd owner. I saw it on Craigslist listed for 16K then reduced several more times until it hit 10K firm no lower so I drove out there with 10K in my pocket and was surprised at how well it was taken care of. It's black opal metallic (which really looks like dark blue) with black interior. It only had 86K miles on it when I got it 5 years ago and now it's got 101K miles so I've only put 15K miles on it or 3K miles per year. About a year or two into owning it I heard a loud pop sound like something exploded and the display was flashing in red saying "ABC failure do not drive!" It was a hydraulic line for the ABC and I was lucky enough to find an honest and trustworthy independent MBZ service shop. He said with these cars it's not if but when the ABC hydraulic system fails and starts leaking it's only a matter of time. He found that one of the hydraulic shocks/struts was about to fail and said all of them were original and worn which could fail at any time. There are 6 of them on my 2003 S600 at 1700.00 each (retail dealer price) which is 10,200.00 in just parts not including labor! I knew I could NOT go down this road since I'm the average guy you described without deep pockets to dump massive cash into a black hole that wouldn't be a permanent fix. I found a professional german made conversion kit made specifically for my car to replace the entire ABC system with high quality air shocks and springs for 1600.00 on Ebay Motors which is less than just one new hydraulic shock/strut at 1700.00! My independent MBZ service shop with 30 years of experience never replaced an entire ABC system and installed this conversion kit but he was up for the challenge. It went pretty smoothly the hydraulic pump had to remain in place and plugged for some reason but when it was done it was sitting a little higher and has settled down from the weight of the car and me to the perfect stance and I've been very happy knowing it's pretty much maintenance free as far as the ABC system is concerned! I don't care about losing the ABC system it's a very comfortable cruising car and I've driven it several times to Los Angeles from San Jose and the seats are so comfortable with the heat and massage. As you know in this car the rear seats recline, heat and massage as well. If only I can find a chauffeur that would be great but I like the thrill of driving it myself. After I got new wheels and tires in LA on my way home to San Jose I have to admit I put the pedal to the metal and maxed out at 130 MPH for a short straight stretch before a known speed trap ahead. Maybe I should swap out the chip to unlock the full potential of this beast to 160MPH!

  • @kiran27

    @kiran27

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hey dennis, can you share the link of the German made conversions kit pls

  • @dennisburt2410

    @dennisburt2410

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@kiran27 www.americanairsuspension.com/Mercedes-Suspension-Conversion-Kits-s/2216.htm

  • @kiran27

    @kiran27

    4 жыл бұрын

    Many thanks @Dennis

  • @maxboya

    @maxboya

    Жыл бұрын

    Dude. S600 didn’t have twin turbo only the S65 did. The limiter can be removed with an autel diagnostic scanner.

  • @jakebarnes9018

    @jakebarnes9018

    11 ай бұрын

    @@maxboya wrong lol. The S600 from 2003 on had the 5.5l version of the M275 that the S65 has.

  • @sonykroket
    @sonykroket4 жыл бұрын

    I love your vids man, never stop. Subscribed.

  • @fefe8607
    @fefe86074 жыл бұрын

    Bill you are awesome !! True Professional reviewer!! Love your videos!

  • @younesalsanhaji1603
    @younesalsanhaji16034 жыл бұрын

    I'd personally go for what my pocket can afford. But as you say, "maybe" is possible if you can get one like this and keep the service up to date: regular oil and filters change... These cars will last for ever with little attention if they're driven carefully, washed and cared for as they need. Apart from that, all car businesses are closed here in France due to lockdown. Wish you good luck in Florida. Thanks for this very instructive and beautiful video! Love the S55!

  • @jimflanagan6029
    @jimflanagan60294 жыл бұрын

    Another great demo Bill and that’s a great car .

  • @ryansrides9714
    @ryansrides97144 жыл бұрын

    Great video, gorgeous Mercedes!! Thank you

  • @averageinvestor4423
    @averageinvestor44234 жыл бұрын

    I love the commentary great job

  • @HammAlexander
    @HammAlexander4 жыл бұрын

    Thank Bill from the Netherlands... You are an essential online too

  • @joebartolone2605
    @joebartolone26054 жыл бұрын

    Betty Gonzalez!! Bill I don't know what I enjoy more - your fabulous cars or your incredible humor!! Bleeping Hilarious man..

  • @diafanchess9052
    @diafanchess90524 жыл бұрын

    Hey, Bill! Nice video man!

  • @toxictophat4194
    @toxictophat41944 жыл бұрын

    Great video been needing more hands on car review channels like this or you need to do everything on the lot lmao

  • @jgatkinson744
    @jgatkinson7443 жыл бұрын

    Once again Bill delivers his powerful videos love his presentation of automobiles . he is definitely great at what he does he has like Dennis Miller‘s live introduction to Hollywood good Show Bell

  • @jacobkerr9836
    @jacobkerr98364 жыл бұрын

    Been watching for awhile now! Love the videos! Set up a facebook or something where everyone can keep up to date with your happenings! I could watch all day long haha!

  • @dzgaming1
    @dzgaming1 Жыл бұрын

    This pull was better than the E63 in the rain! God Bless you Bill, you always know how to have fun!

  • @Mr.FernandoEscobar
    @Mr.FernandoEscobar4 жыл бұрын

    Great video, very entertaining/educational, and funny!

  • @MacGregor.
    @MacGregor.4 жыл бұрын

    That acceleration is insane 👍

  • @ronaldtartaglia4459
    @ronaldtartaglia44594 жыл бұрын

    You are essential Bill, your videos are getting me through... Not joking at all.

  • @LynxStarAuto
    @LynxStarAuto3 жыл бұрын

    I work on these for a living. The struts aren't as problematic has the hosing that interconnects the system. The tandem pump (which is the abc/ps pump) is another common leaker and fail point. The accumulators (bomb looking globe) is another common failure item. Those are very cheap and install in minutes. The struts themselves are pretty durable. I usually see these go due to higher mileage, or because the previous owner was negligent and never serviced the fluid or system. They have a filter inside the reservoir, and the system should be flushed and refilled with fresh fluid every couple of years. Edit: this one needs a very expensive cluster 😂😅. That ain't a "light out". It's a replace the instrument cluster and get it programmed with star diagnostic light out.

  • @alexyoung478
    @alexyoung4784 жыл бұрын

    Once again great video and definitely worth getting the AMG Kompressor version just buy a second car for daily use.

  • @1koolkat76
    @1koolkat764 жыл бұрын

    Beautiful car. Yes, you are right about finding the right mechanic that will take care of you. You also gotta know how to work on the car itself. i.e Oil change, Air Filter change, spark plugs, and brake job. If you know how to do it, then you just save some money right there. Keep up the great work and looking forward to more Mercedes videos.

  • @tdvandy2
    @tdvandy24 жыл бұрын

    I am also an essential employee. You are doing a great deal to help me maintain my sanity. Your videos are great. You really know your stuff. In a few years I am going to not buy another new car and instead am coming to you. Thank you!!

  • @Slikk750Blokk
    @Slikk750Blokk4 жыл бұрын

    Bill you are HILARIOUS! I am now a subscriber

  • @BEGGARWOOD1
    @BEGGARWOOD14 жыл бұрын

    I love you Bill . The only sanity I have in a mad world . You can be the umbrella in my cocktail any day.!

  • @cesartoledo5621
    @cesartoledo56214 жыл бұрын

    For me it was a 2000 ML55.... (k113 engine) . The first trip we took together was to Fletcher Jones, service dept. I can only trust myself in making sure that she does not fail mechanically. Remember AMG means every single piece of that machine is there for high performance issues. Nothing that has been placed on that S55 is for coincidence. Every single piece , the transmission module the abs system. The speed controllers they are made by “VDO” , Hehehehe, sorry I 🙀got excited there for a minute .Just remember that she is a “Big Body” . She will make you feel like never before. It’s an awesome feeling knowing that you are driving that most incredibly advanced designed car of that year. Make sure to put some cash aside for maintenance. Good look.

  • @stefanisaacs667
    @stefanisaacs6673 жыл бұрын

    Love your review!! Wish I was in FL so I can buy a car from you. Cheers.

  • @Gr8thxAlot
    @Gr8thxAlot4 жыл бұрын

    One service on this costs about the same as 10 full years of service on my Honda, lol. Can I afford it? No.

  • @Matt_from_Florida

    @Matt_from_Florida

    3 жыл бұрын

    On these cars it's *ALLWAYS* a question of... can you do the work yourself? *_"Well can ya, punk?"_* P.S. Please overlook my rudeness. The thought just occurred to me to say that, and I gave in.

  • @p0werl0ve
    @p0werl0ve4 жыл бұрын

    very informative and real smart points

  • @qx4n9e1xp
    @qx4n9e1xp4 жыл бұрын

    This car looks stunning with that clean grille, and the logo on the the hood instead.

  • @MrJgd888
    @MrJgd8883 жыл бұрын

    Nice informative video!

  • @ulflei
    @ulflei4 жыл бұрын

    I think by the parts and labor retail/dealer prices you also used the 2005 prices A little update struts are $1100.00 a piece + labor ,B service around $ 1000.00 and transmission service $ 1100.00

  • @amglover4361
    @amglover43614 жыл бұрын

    I've owned one of these for 4 and a half years. It's a low owner (I'm the 2nd) and low mileage (74k now) car and it has cost £2000 ($2500) per year on maintenance so far. But as things get replaced, the annual costs have been reducing as time goes on. I've had it remapped and it dyno'd at 529bhp/600lbft. It's bonkers fast, especially considering its size. I can't see my selling it any time soon, as they don't seem to fetch much. I think people are scared witless of the ABC suspension so the E55s and CLS55s are more popular. I've not had any ABC issues, as the car had a new pump before I bought it. I love mine.

  • @jessegardiner1814
    @jessegardiner18144 жыл бұрын

    Bills my spirit animal. Champagne taste and the "really Marty?" Hilarious. Living my dream.

  • @coctailer
    @coctailer4 жыл бұрын

    Love the videos! Best way to end my day is with laughing at your reviews!! :-) (edited, I meant that as a complement) :-)

  • @subotai91
    @subotai912 жыл бұрын

    Came for the s55 knowledge, stayed for the humor. My new favorite KZreadr!!!

  • @Lasertrac
    @Lasertrac4 жыл бұрын

    I love your honest upfront detailed explanation. Well done my friend. You videos improve the image of some used car dealers. Loved the comment about Marty. When you see younger guys in pajama bottoms at the grocery store I just want to slap them upside the head and ask if their mother let them out of the house like that.

  • @davidcozzi373
    @davidcozzi3734 жыл бұрын

    My favorite line in this video is when you say “your essential as the umbrella in a mixed drink.”😀

  • @rainowl1
    @rainowl14 жыл бұрын

    Keep going. We love you. \

  • @azargelin
    @azargelin4 жыл бұрын

    This video came just in time I am hoping to get one of these days just getting the funds together but màn it is definitely a dream car of mine

  • @IslandbreezeMechanical
    @IslandbreezeMechanical4 жыл бұрын

    Another great review. I may want to get an MB now

  • @supercarsaffair3281
    @supercarsaffair32814 жыл бұрын

    I have an 04 S500 (blk/blk) with OEM S55 exhaust, bumper and skirt. Every time i say i will get rid of it and go for a drive, i change my mind. I caught so many people turning their heads looking at it (debarge with only Benz star on trunk lid) absolute beautiful and timeless cars. Once you have your suspension and compressor sort out maintenance is really now so bad. Love how real you are about the cars you show👌 Most salesmen would lie about their mother to sell a car.

  • @maxboya

    @maxboya

    Жыл бұрын

    🤦‍♂️ you embarrass us AMG owners 🤦‍♂️

  • @richboimagic
    @richboimagic4 жыл бұрын

    Lol 18:34 the shade that bill be throwing 😂

  • @TJC450

    @TJC450

    4 жыл бұрын

    StugZz 😂😂😂

  • @Geardos1
    @Geardos14 жыл бұрын

    I'm not crazy about the headlights but they aged really well for a 15 year old car, and still ample power today

  • @pabloperezjabonero2476

    @pabloperezjabonero2476

    4 ай бұрын

    Cuanto vale este Coche coche

  • @pcmacp719c1
    @pcmacp719c14 жыл бұрын

    *_"They are going to nail you to the cross!"_* 🤣🤣 So true, so true. There is this nice service center in my city that services all makes; they give you free espresso, cookies, chips, water, soda; they're genuinely nice people, *BUT* their service prices are often more expensive than the dealer! They quoted a coolant flush for my relatively simple *KIA Forte* at $280! They must be trying to send their child through law school!

  • @Stewsadventures
    @Stewsadventures4 жыл бұрын

    Very nice video love the Benz

  • @nickpenny5698
    @nickpenny56983 жыл бұрын

    Just bought a 100k mile S55, Black over Black. Oil changed every 5k miles. Taking it in for a full inspection this week! Wish me luck.

  • @alexshortsplus
    @alexshortsplus4 жыл бұрын

    Love the reviews but I'm here for the one liners and comedy by Bill 😄😄😄😄📺

  • @kentrobinson2829

    @kentrobinson2829

    4 жыл бұрын

    IKR lol mee too 😂😂😂

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