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MERCEDES S-CLASS (2005)

Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,301 real MOT tests in 2024.

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MOT Pass Rate

84%

Total Tests (2024)

1,301

Avg Mileage

132,014 mi

Est. Annual Cost

£1,900

Is the 2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS reliable?

Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.

At 19 years old, 84% of MERCEDES S-CLASSs from 2005 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,301 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 132,014 miles.

How does the 2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS compare?

Rank among all 2005 cars86th out of 526(top 16%)
Rank among all MERCEDES models936th out of 1,408(top 66%)
vs national average+2% (82% avg)
vs 2005 cars average+12% (72% avg)
vs MERCEDES average-3% (87% avg)

Mileage Analysis

The average 2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS has 132,014 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 140,600 miles for a 19-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.

Best year to buy a MERCEDES S-CLASS?

The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 1992 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2005 sits between the two at 84%.

How much does a 2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS cost to run?

⛽Fuel (Diesel, 3222cc)
£1,245
🏛️Road Tax
£250
🔧MOT Test
£55
🛠️Predicted Repairs
£350
Total per year£1,900
Per month£158/mo

Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.

MERCEDES S-CLASS by Year

YearPass RateTestsAvg Mileage
202191%16432,036 mi
202095%54043,972 mi
201994%5,92167,860 mi
201894%6,51875,456 mi
201793%5,99073,988 mi
201691%6,81974,260 mi
201592%5,51387,325 mi
201492%3,91595,545 mi
201389%2,145108,065 mi
201288%2,817100,420 mi
201187%2,202117,628 mi
201085%2,001110,934 mi
200982%1,990114,274 mi
200884%2,232110,584 mi
200784%2,940117,418 mi
200687%2,334111,043 mi
200584%1,301132,014 mi
200482%1,158124,020 mi
200382%1,227120,882 mi
200279%720115,052 mi
200179%735107,381 mi
200081%562102,703 mi
199978%43498,447 mi
199881%522111,371 mi
199786%373107,182 mi
199683%348109,185 mi
199586%286111,087 mi
199492%140106,787 mi
199376%49112,335 mi
199272%121119,350 mi
199192%118120,508 mi
199087%125142,121 mi

Checking a specific MERCEDES S-CLASS?

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About the 2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS

The 2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS is a performance with a 3222cc diesel engine. 1,301 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It ranks in the top 16% of all 2005 cars for reliability.

With an average of 132,014 miles at 19 years old, MERCEDES S-CLASS owners drive about as much as the UK average.

2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS Fuel Costs

The 3222cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.

What does it cost to own a 2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS?

Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 84% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.

MERCEDES S-CLASS Reliability Trend

Newer MERCEDES S-CLASSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 6 percentage points.

Buying a Used 2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS

At 19 years old, the MERCEDES S-CLASS is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 95%.

Alternatives to the 2005 MERCEDES S-CLASS

The MERCEDES S-CLASS is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel performances from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines: