Mercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 Engine ReplacementCompare Prices & Get Quotes
Get quotes today from trusted UK Mercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 engine specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used engines for the hand-built 5.5-litre and 6.0-litre biturbo V12s - supply & fit available nationwide.
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12-Month Warranty
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From £6,500 to £12,000
Used from £3,500 · Reconditioned from £6,500 · Common codes: M275.953, M279.980
From £3,500
Tested, bare/short engine
From £6,500
Rod bearings addressed, tested
From quote
Upgraded bearings, full teardown, revised valvetrain
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3 Simple Steps3 Simple Stepsto Finding the Best Mercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 Replacement Engineto Finding the Best Mercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 Replacement Engine
Most replacements completed within 3-5 days.
Variant HistoryMercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The S600 V12 represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering - a hand-built twin-turbocharged V12 that has powered the flagship S-Class across three generations. The M275 5.5-litre biturbo V12 debuted in the W220 S600 in 2002, delivering effortless 493hp and 800Nm of torque. In 2006, the W221 S600 received a further-developed M275 producing 517hp. The M279 6.0-litre biturbo V12 succeeded it in 2014 for the W222 S600, producing 530hp. These engines represent the ultimate expression of Mercedes luxury and performance.
Variant HistoryMercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The S600 V12 represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering - a hand-built twin-turbocharged V12 that has powered the flagship S-Class across three generations. The M275 5.5-litre biturbo V12 debuted in the W220 S600 in 2002, delivering effortless 493hp and 800Nm of torque. In 2006, the W221 S600 received a further-developed M275 producing 517hp. The M279 6.0-litre biturbo V12 succeeded it in 2014 for the W222 S600, producing 530hp. These engines represent the ultimate expression of Mercedes luxury and performance.
Mercedes Benz S Class S600 V12
Fuel TypePetrol (twin-turbo V12)
Engine Size Range5.5L-6.0L (M275: 5,513cc; M279: 5,980cc)
Power Output Range493-530hp across the variant's historyEngine History Timeline
M275.953 5.5L biturbo V12, 493hp @ 5,000rpm (W220 S600)
M275.953 5.5L biturbo V12, 517hp @ 5,000rpm (W221 S600)
M279.980 6.0L biturbo V12, 530hp @ 5,000rpm (W222 S600)
End of S600 production; V12 continues in Maybach S680
Key Specs Snapshot
Fuel TypePetrol (twin-turbo V12)Engine Size Range5.5L-6.0L (M275: 5,513cc; M279: 5,980cc)Power Output Range493-530hp across the variant's historyYears Produced2002-2020Every engine fitted to the Mercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 is covered below, with UK rebuilt pricing and known failure points - from M275 ignition coil failures to M279 turbocharger and oil leak issues.
Mercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement CostMercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement Cost
5.5L Biturbo V12 (2002-2013)
Power Output493 hp (368 kW) @ 5,000 rpm (2002-2005); 517 hp (380 kW) @ 5,000 rpm (2006-2013)Torque800 Nm (2002-2005); 830 Nm (2006-2013)Years Fitted2002-2013Displacement5,513 cc (5.5L)CylindersV12, 60° V-angle, SOHC, 36-valve, twin-turbochargedEngine CodeM 275 E 55 LA / 275.953
Compatible Trim Levels
- S600 (W220, W221)
- S600 Guard
Find your exact engine code, specs and UK replacement cost guide.
Used
Tested, ready-to-fit engine
£3,500-£5,500
Reconditioned
Addressed known issues, tested
£6,500-£8,500
Rebuilt
Full teardown, upgraded internals
£7,500-£10,000
Common Failure
Ignition coil and voltage transformer failure - the M275's ignition system uses a central voltage transformer and 12 individual coil packs, a known weak point. Misfires on multiple cylinders are often traced to failing ignition components. Oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan gaskets are also common.
The S600's M275 and M279 V12 engines are hand-built masterpieces, representing the pinnacle of Mercedes engineering. However, their complexity comes with significant maintenance challenges. Ignition system failures, turbocharger issues, and oil leaks are the most common problems driving replacement decisions. Every rebuilt engine supplied through EnginesMarket includes upgraded components addressing these original failure points, plus a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty.
The V12's Most Notorious Weakness
Affected Vehicles
Mercedes S600 V12 (M275.953, 2002-2013)
Typical Failure Mileage
40,000-80,000 miles
Root Cause
The M275's ignition system uses a central voltage transformer (sitting on top of the engine) that feeds 12 individual coil packs. The transformer can fail, leading to multiple cylinder misfires. Misfires on cylinders across both banks are a classic symptom.
Why It Happens
The M275's ignition system uses a central voltage transformer (sitting on top of the engine) that feeds 12 individual coil packs. The transformer can fail, leading to multiple cylinder misfires. Misfires on cylinders across both banks are a classic symptom.
Dealer (parts + labour)
£800-£1,500
Specialist (parts + labour)
£500-£900
What it involves
Replace central ignition voltage transformer, clear fault codes
Suitability
If misfires are intermittent
1 - 2 daysDealer (parts + labour)
£2,500-£4,000
Specialist (parts + labour)
£1,500-£2,500
What it involves
Replace transformer, all 12 coil packs, spark plugs, inspect wiring
Suitability
If multiple cylinders are misfiring
1 - 2 daysDealer (parts + labour)
£12,000-£18,000
Specialist (parts + labour)
£7,500-£10,000
What it involves
Complete engine swap with new ignition components, 12-month warranty
Suitability
If ignition failure has caused catalytic converter or engine damage
1 - 2 daysAll prices are indicative UK market ranges based on current UK specialist supplier data.| Repair Tier | Dealer (Parts + Labour) | Specialist (Parts + Labour) | What It Involves | Suitability | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Minor - Voltage transformer replacement Minor | £800-£1,500 | £500-£900 | Replace central ignition voltage transformer, clear fault codes | If misfires are intermittent | 1 - 2 days |
 Intermediate - Full ignition system overhaul Best Value | £2,500-£4,000 | £1,500-£2,500 | Replace transformer, all 12 coil packs, spark plugs, inspect wiring | If multiple cylinders are misfiring | 1 - 2 days |
Full Replacement - Rebuilt M275 engine Best Value | £12,000-£18,000 | £7,500-£10,000 | Complete engine swap with new ignition components, 12-month warranty | If ignition failure has caused catalytic converter or engine damage | 1 - 2 days |
Vehicle Value Check
Vehicle Value Check
A typical 2002-2013 S600 V12 is worth approximately £8,000-£25,000 depending on generation, mileage and condition. These flagship saloons retain strong values for well-maintained examples, making engine replacement a justifiable investment for owners of low-mileage or meticulously maintained cars.
Our Recommendation
Our Recommendation
M275 ignition issues are a notorious weakness. If you experience misfires, have the ignition system inspected immediately. Replacing the central voltage transformer at a specialist is significantly cheaper than dealer rates. If the failure has been prolonged, catalytic converter damage is possible - in which case a full rebuilt engine with new ignition components is the only safe option.
Don't Let Ignition Coil Failure, Turbo Issues, or Oil Leaks Write Off Your Mercedes S600 V12
Whether you're facing M275 ignition coil failure on your W220/W221 S600 or M279 turbocharger issues on your W222 S600, EnginesMarket makes it simple to compare quotes from trusted UK Mercedes V12 specialists. Every rebuilt engine in our network carries upgraded components addressing the original design weakness - new ignition components, fresh turbos, and comprehensive gasket sets - plus a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty with nationwide delivery and supply & fit options. Don't pay main dealer premiums. Compare prices from independent Mercedes V12 specialists who know these hand-built engines inside out.
Compare rebuilt M275 Mercedes S600 V12 engine prices
12-Month Minimum
UK Specialists Vetted
Best Price GuidanceImportant Information
Important Information
"All prices are indicative UK market ranges based on historical quote data and repair requests from our network of engine specialists. Dealer pricing is estimated based on published main dealer labour rates and genuine OEM parts pricing. Specialist pricing reflects actual quote data from EnginesMarket's UK network. Actual costs vary depending on damage severity, vehicle condition, variant, and workshop location within the UK. Use our free comparison tool to get tailored quotes for your specific Mercedes S Class S600 V12. Every engine supplied through EnginesMarket carries a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty - always confirm exact terms with your chosen supplier."
Mercedes Benz S Class S600 V12 Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a Mercedes S600 V12 engine replacement cost in the UK-
Short summary: A rebuilt M275 V12 for the S600 costs £7,500-£10,000 supply-only; a rebuilt M279 V12 costs £8,500-£12,000 supply-only. Fitting adds £1,500-£2,500 depending on complexity - V12 work requires specialist knowledge.
- S600 (M275.953): rebuilt unit £7,500-£10,000; used engine from £3,500
- S600 (M279.980): rebuilt unit £8,500-£12,000; used engine from £4,500
- M275 ignition transformer replacement: £500-£900 at specialist
- M279 turbocharger replacement: £3,000-£5,000 at specialist
Question 2What are the signs of ignition coil failure on a Mercedes S600 V12-
Short summary: Misfires on multiple cylinders, rough running, and check engine lights are the classic warning signs on the M275 engine. The central voltage transformer and individual coil packs are a known weak point.
- Misfires on cylinders across both banks - classic M275 symptom
- Rough idle or loss of power under acceleration
- Check engine light with multiple cylinder misfire codes
- If caught early, transformer replacement costs £500-£900 at specialist
Question 3Is the Mercedes S600 V12 engine reliable-
Short summary: The M275 and M279 V12s are hand-built masterpieces, but they have known issues. The M275 is notorious for ignition coil and transformer failures, while the M279 can suffer from turbocharger and oil leak issues. With these addressed, both engines are fundamentally strong.
- M275 ignition system is the most common failure point
- M279 turbocharger issues and oil leaks have been reported
- Regular maintenance with Mercedes-spec oils is essential
- Well-maintained V12 engines exceed 100,000 miles
Question 4How long do Mercedes S600 V12 engines last-
Short summary: Properly maintained M275 and M279 V12 engines can reach 150,000+ miles, but ignition system and turbocharger issues typically require attention before then. One owner reported an M275 engine still running strong at 140,000 miles.
- M275 (S600 W220/W221): 100,000-150,000 miles with regular servicing
- M279 (S600 W222): too early for definitive data - turbo issues from 40k-80k miles
- Service interval is 10,000 miles or 12 months - use Mercedes-spec MB 229.5 oil
- Late oil changes accelerate turbocharger and timing chain wear
Question 5Is it worth replacing the engine in my Mercedes S600 V12-
Short summary: Yes, if the S600 is otherwise in good condition with no rust or major transmission faults. A rebuilt M275 costs £7,500-£10,000 - significantly less than replacing a £8,000-£25,000 vehicle. For the W222 S600, the higher value (£20,000-£45,000) makes replacement even more justifiable.
- S600 (W220/W221) values: £8,000-£25,000 depending on year, mileage and condition
- S600 (W222) values: £20,000-£45,000 - flagship V12 values remain strong
- Rebuilt engine with upgraded components fixes original weak points
- Supply & fit typically £9,000-£14,500 depending on engine code
- New engine includes 12-month unlimited mileage warranty
Question 6What oil does my Mercedes S600 V12 need-
Short summary: Mercedes-Benz specifies MB 229.5 high-performance oil - typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 fully synthetic. The M275 V12 requires approximately 10 litres; the M279 V12 requires approximately 11 litres.
- M275 (S600 W220/W221): MB 229.5 5W-30 or 5W-40 - 10L capacity
- M279 (S600 W222): MB 229.5 5W-30 or 5W-40 - 11L capacity
- Never use non-approved oil - can cause turbocharger and timing chain issues
- Change every 10,000 miles or 12 months - stretched intervals cause turbo wear
Why Choose UsCompare Mercedes S Class S600 V12Engine PricesToday
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12-Month Warranty on every rebuilt S600 V12 engine
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supply & fit available for M275 and M279
Comparing quotes for your Mercedes S600 V12 is completely free, with no obligation and no pressure. Enter your registration above to get tailored quotes from UK Mercedes V12 specialists who understand the M275 and M279 engines inside out. Whether you need a used engine, a reconditioned unit, or a full rebuilt engine with upgraded ignition components, new turbos, and comprehensive gaskets, we'll connect you with the right specialist for your exact S600 - with a minimum 12-month warranty on every engine supplied.
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