Why does the check engine light in my S420 turn on when I start my car?

It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. It’s just your S420 firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Are Mercedes-Benz S420 engine noises bad?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Mercedes-Benz S420. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage my Mercedes-Benz S420 engine?

Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Is it okay to put water in my Mercedes-Benz S420 radiator?

While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your S420 radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What can cause the engine in my S420 to suddenly stop?

Your S420 car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.

Who fixes Mercedes-Benz S420 engines?

For Mercedes-Benz S420 engine repair, trust your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. You can make an appointment today at any of our thousands of locations across the U.S.

Reliable Repairs for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S420 Engines

Learn about

1996 Mercedes-Benz S420 Trim Options

Select your Mercedes-Benz S420 trim level to learn more about Mercedes-Benz-recommended engine repair. Use the following chart to find information.

V8/4.2L

Mercedes-Benz S420 Repairs and Services

Stuff wears out. Even your Mercedes-Benz S420’s engine parts and components will change. When something breaks or fails, we’re ready to help. Select a repair or category to learn more about 1996 Mercedes-Benz S420 services.

We Know Mercedes-Benz S420 Engines

Mercedes-Benz S420 engines are known for their reliability. You probably thought about that when you got it. However, even your trustworthy engine is subject to wear and tear. Sometimes plans go sideways. When they do, you might find yourself searching for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S420 engine repair or replacement parts. That’s where Firestone Complete Auto Care comes in. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know Mercedes-Benz S420 engines. If you think something’s wrong with your engine, schedule an appointment at your convenience. After all, Firestone Complete Auto Care is one of the most popular picks for professional engine repairs thanks to its service and affordability.

My 1996 Mercedes-Benz S420 Check Engine Light Is On

If your S420 check engine light is on, it’s time to get it looked at. A check engine light that’s flashing or steadily illuminated could point to problems with your fuel, Possible causes can include a failing oxygen sensor, bad spark plug, a problem with your catalytic converter, or an engine vacuum leak, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to get your S420 issues diagnosed and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. engine rattling, essential fluid leaks, or a sinking feeling that something’s wrong.

1996 S420 Engine Services

When your Mercedes-Benz S420 engine needs repairs, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We don't start working until we have your approval. If a repair isn’t urgent right now, we’ll let you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, too. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for S420 engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use Mercedes-Benz-approved parts and components like the cambelt, valve guide seal, fuses, or another part.

Questions About 1996 Mercedes-Benz S420 Engines

Why does the check engine light in my S420 turn on when I start my car? It's okay if your check engine light comes on when you first start your vehicle. It’s just your S420 firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Are Mercedes-Benz S420 engine noises bad? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your Mercedes-Benz S420. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage my Mercedes-Benz S420 engine? Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.
Is it okay to put water in my Mercedes-Benz S420 radiator? While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your S420 radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What can cause the engine in my S420 to suddenly stop? Your S420 car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.
Who fixes Mercedes-Benz S420 engines? For Mercedes-Benz S420 engine repair, trust your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. You can make an appointment today at any of our thousands of locations across the U.S.