2003 Mercedes-Benz S430 Service and Repair Manual

This factory service and repair manual for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz S430 reaches two trims, Base and 4Matic, on the four-door sedan. Under the hood of both is the 4.3L SOHC V8, 260 cubic inches, naturally aspirated and running on gasoline. Driveline, axle and transfer specifications are given alongside engine, brake, steering and electrical data for both trims.

Engines covered

• 4.3L V8 (260 cu in) — SOHC, naturally aspirated, gasoline

Body styles covered

• 4-door sedan

Trims covered

• Base
• 4Matic

Known issues on the 2003 S430. For certain 2003 W220-chassis models equipped with Active Body Control acceleration sensors on the front struts, NHTSA filed a recall over soldering flaws that could make one front strut react while the other stayed put. Two more recalls went to the 2003 S-Class line: corroding Active Body Control pressure hoses on certain vehicles that could leak fluid onto hot engine parts, and trunk lid springs on certain vehicles that could break and let a raised lid fall on someone reaching in. The 2003 S430 itself has 32 owner complaints, led by the electrical system (13), and 1 complaint reported a fire. Another 18 are logged against the 2003 S-Class line. Suspension, body and wiring procedures cover these systems.