I own a S500 2001 which I find has been having regular problems with the airmatic system, for the last few years. First the pump needed replacement, then a few new shocks and now I am faced with the rear driver side shock dropping down to tire. When I start the vehicule it takes a few seconds but it gets to rise and the warning light comes off. But I have noticed lately that the cars rides very stiff. Before I end up dropping a few thousand $$$ (as the past), would like to know if there is a simplier and less costly solution, or at least any quick reference verifications I could do with a friend mechanic before I get the shaft from the MB dealer mechanics.

 

There are probably very few 2001 S Classes that have not had airmatic problems, in fact cronic problems is probably a better description, so you are not alone.

Have a good look through this forum and the internet in general, there are quite a few cases of problems being fixed very simply, but would have cost a lot at a dealer. It could be something as simple as a new seal being needed. Problem is Merc dealers will want to replace huge sections of the system....which will cost a lot, and often not get to the route of the problem.

Sorry, not a very helpful post, but keep searching on the net.

 

Thank you for the comment, will at least speak to mercedes mechanic friend with info I obtained to date and see what he suggest. If the result is economical will post on site.