We had an 03 s55 AMG, and within the year we had it:
The supercharger blew
The rear right strut blew
The tranny computer fried
The trunk broke
The brakes had to be replaced twice
And random check engine lights all the time

The car was in the shop every two weeks, which is why we got rid of it. Maybe it was just that one, but Ive heard of very similar things happening to other MB. Just my .02c

 

thanks for your input everyone. honestly, i can only pass on information to my father and have him take it for what its worth so the final outcome would be on him. and so far he has had no 2nd doubts on wanting one. but, now he's definitely taking into consideration the more early 90's S models as well. we'll be going to tysinger MB and the one on va beach blvd sometime in the near future. also, if anyone knows about one for sale around their neighborhood from a private seller let me know. i'll let everyone know what he picks. until then keep the comments coming.

 

The car is only serviced at the MB dealer...so I hope they know what sort of lightbulbs to put in.