Surprising Agility

At 17 feet long, the S550 is obviously a large car, but it doesn't feel the least bit ponderous from the driver's seat. It's pretty easy to maneuver through heavy, fast-moving highway traffic and feels rock-solid doing so, like nothing's going to move it off its line.

The big Benz also delivers a comfortable ride. An adaptive air suspension is standard on the S550, and it gives the sedan load-leveling capability as well as a lower ride height when traveling fast.

The sedan's size is most noticeable when you maneuver in tight spaces. Fortunately, there are a number of optional features that can lessen your chances of scuffing one of the bumpers, like front and rear parking sensors and a backup camera. Even with such aids, though, the S-Class can still sometimes feel like a giant when parking.

    See also:

    Displaying service messages
      Switch on the ignition.   Press or on the steering wheel to select the Serv. menu.   Press or to select the ASSYST PLUS submenu and press to confirm. The service due d ...

    Problems with PARKTRONIC
    Problem Possible causes/consequences and Solutions Only the red segments in the PARKTRONIC warning displays are lit. You also hear a warning tone for approximately two s ...

    Removing and installing the cover in the front wheel arch
    You must remove the cover from the front wheel housing before you can change the front bulbs. - To remove: switch off the lights. - Turn the front wheels inwards. - Slide up cover 1  and ...