MERCEDES S-CLASS (2011)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,202 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
87%
Total Tests (2024)
2,202
Avg Mileage
117,628 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 13 years old, 87% of MERCEDES S-CLASSs from 2011 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,202 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 117,628 miles.
How does the 2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS has 117,628 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 96,200 miles for a 13-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
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 2011 sits between the two at 87%.
How much does a 2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS cost to run?
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
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 91% | 164 | 32,036 mi |
| 2020 | 95% | 540 | 43,972 mi |
| 2019 | 94% | 5,921 | 67,860 mi |
| 2018 | 94% | 6,518 | 75,456 mi |
| 2017 | 93% | 5,990 | 73,988 mi |
| 2016 | 91% | 6,819 | 74,260 mi |
| 2015 | 92% | 5,513 | 87,325 mi |
| 2014 | 92% | 3,915 | 95,545 mi |
| 2013 | 89% | 2,145 | 108,065 mi |
| 2012 | 88% | 2,817 | 100,420 mi |
| 2011 | 87% | 2,202 | 117,628 mi |
| 2010 | 85% | 2,001 | 110,934 mi |
| 2009 | 82% | 1,990 | 114,274 mi |
| 2008 | 84% | 2,232 | 110,584 mi |
| 2007 | 84% | 2,940 | 117,418 mi |
| 2006 | 87% | 2,334 | 111,043 mi |
| 2005 | 84% | 1,301 | 132,014 mi |
| 2004 | 82% | 1,158 | 124,020 mi |
| 2003 | 82% | 1,227 | 120,882 mi |
| 2002 | 79% | 720 | 115,052 mi |
| 2001 | 79% | 735 | 107,381 mi |
| 2000 | 81% | 562 | 102,703 mi |
| 1999 | 78% | 434 | 98,447 mi |
| 1998 | 81% | 522 | 111,371 mi |
| 1997 | 86% | 373 | 107,182 mi |
| 1996 | 83% | 348 | 109,185 mi |
| 1995 | 86% | 286 | 111,087 mi |
| 1994 | 92% | 140 | 106,787 mi |
| 1993 | 76% | 49 | 112,335 mi |
| 1992 | 72% | 121 | 119,350 mi |
| 1991 | 92% | 118 | 120,508 mi |
| 1990 | 87% | 125 | 142,121 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES S-CLASS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS
The 2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS is a performance with a 5500cc petrol engine. 2,202 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It ranks in the top 24% of all 2011 cars for reliability.
With an average of 117,628 miles at 13 years old, MERCEDES S-CLASS owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS Fuel Costs
The 5500cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 87% 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 2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS
At 13 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 2011 MERCEDES S-CLASS
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES SLK (2013) 85% pass rate (-2%) from 11,106 tests
- BENTLEY CONTINENTAL (2012) 95% pass rate (+8%) from 2,452 tests
- JAGUAR XK (2013) 91% pass rate (+4%) from 1,899 tests
- JAGUAR XKR (2010) 87% pass rate (same) from 1,814 tests