The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S450 is a sophisticated luxury sedan that demands precision maintenance, particularly regarding its 3.0L twin-turbocharged inline-six engine. To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of this high-performance vehicle, using the correct lubricants is essential. Proper fluid management protects critical components from wear, manages the extreme heat generated by turbochargers, and maintains efficiency over extended driving periods. AMSOIL synthetic lubricants are formulated to exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards, providing superior protection for European vehicles under the most severe driving conditions.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A premium motor oil specifically designed for gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European vehicles, featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and additives for enhanced protection.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Another top-tier European formula motor oil that ensures exceptional flow in sub-zero temperatures while maintaining film strength at high operating temperatures.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium filtration solution that offers improved media quality over standard OEM filters to trap contaminants effectively.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – An ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix formulation that provides protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, safeguarding all cooling system metals and hoses.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated coolant option that offers extended service intervals and protection against corrosion, erosion, and cavitation in passenger cars and light trucks.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Engineered to withstand heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A cost-effective synthetic alternative that protects against wear and maintains transmission efficiency.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – A potent additive that restores up to 14% horsepower, cleans GDI fuel injectors, and reduces the need for higher-octane fuel.
Engine Oil and Filtration Specifications
The heart of the 2018 S450 is its 3.0L 6-cylinder engine, identified by the internal code 276.82. This turbocharged powerplant operates under significant thermal stress, making the choice of motor oil critical. The manufacturer recommends oil viscosities of 0W-30 or 0W-40 for all temperatures, with 5W-30 and 5W-40 suitable for temperatures above -25°C. The engine oil capacity, including the filter change, is 6.9 quarts. After refilling the sump, it is imperative to check the oil level to ensure accuracy.
When performing an oil change, the metal oil drain plug requires a specific torque of 22 ft/lbs. Additionally, the drain plug seal should be replaced with every service to prevent leaks. For this application, AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil offers a precise blend of synthetic base oils tailored for the unique demands of European vehicles. Alternatively, AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil provides excellent low-temperature flow while maintaining a robust protective film at high heat.
Filtration is equally vital to prevent abrasive particles from circulating through the engine. The recommended filtration solution is the WIX Oil Filter, part number 57059-EA. This filter features premium media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters, ensuring that contaminants are trapped efficiently while maintaining proper oil flow rates.
Cooling System Protection
The cooling system for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S450 requires attention to two different fluid capacities depending on the specific application and fluid type. For the Low Temperature Coolant Concentrate (LTCC) application, the capacity is 3.4 quarts. For the High Temperature Coolant Concentrate (HTCC) application, the capacity is 13 quarts.
To maintain optimal operating temperatures and protect the aluminum components within the engine and radiator, AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is an excellent choice. This unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation is engineered to exceed OEM requirements and provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years. It is a 50/50 pre-mix, making it ready for immediate use without the need for dilution. The formula is free of phosphates, nitrates, nitrites, silicates, borates, and amines, ensuring compatibility with all other antifreeze and coolant colors while protecting all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses.
For those seeking a concentrated solution that requires mixing with distilled or high-quality water, AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers exceptional performance. This product delivers protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years in passenger cars and light trucks. It vastly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion and is phosphate-free, nitrate-free, nitrite-free, silicate-free, borate-free, and amine-free, offering a safe and durable coolant for the S450’s sensitive cooling system.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
The transmission in the 2018 S450 operates under varying loads and speeds, necessitating a fluid that can handle both high heat and cold starts. While the source data does not specify exact capacities for the transmission fluid, the choice of fluid is crucial for preserving transmission life. AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain. It remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures and provides reserve protection during heavy use, making it ideal for the S450’s automatic transmission system.
For a more budget-friendly yet still high-performance option, AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid provides excellent protection against wear. Both fluids are formulated to reduce friction and improve fuel efficiency, ensuring smooth shifts and extended transmission life.
Fuel System Maintenance
To ensure the 3.0L turbocharged engine runs at peak efficiency, fuel quality and injection performance are key. Over time, deposits can build up on fuel injectors, leading to reduced power and poor fuel economy. AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive is an advanced fuel system cleaner designed to restore up to 14% horsepower. It cleans GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after just one tank of fuel. This additive helps improve fuel economy and reduces the need for costly higher-octane fuel, while also helping to prevent carbon rap and controlling pre-ignition knock. It is compatible with capless fuel systems, making it a versatile choice for modern vehicles like the S450.
Additional Maintenance Products
Beyond the core lubricants, specific maintenance tasks benefit from targeted AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver for fuel system cleaning. For seasonal storage, the AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer keeps fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup. During long periods of inactivity, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil provides a rust-preventive coating for internal components. For cleaning and protection needs, products like AMSOIL Brake and Parts Cleaner remove contaminants effectively, while AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Degreaser dissolves tough grease and grime. Exterior care is maintained with AMSOIL High-Foam Car Shampoo and AMSOIL Exterior Ceramic Spray, ensuring the vehicle’s finish stays pristine.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S450 represents a pinnacle of German engineering and luxury automotive design. As part of the legendary S-Class line, which has been the benchmark for sedans since 1972, the S450 sits in the upper echelon of the lineup, bridging the gap between the base E 450 and the high-performance AMG models. Introduced for the 2019 model year (often carried over or updated from late 2018), the S450 is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline-six engine. This engine is a marvel of modern powertrain technology, delivering a robust combination of power and efficiency that defines the vehicle’s driving character. Under the hood, the engine code 276.82 indicates a sophisticated unit that utilizes a 48-volt mild-hybrid system in later iterations, though the core 2018 model focuses on the torque and smoothness of the twin-turbo configuration.
The S450 is designed for drivers who value a serene, composed ride punctuated by bursts of performance. The twin-turbocharged inline-six provides ample torque low in the rev range, making overtaking effortless and city driving smooth. The vehicle’s suspension, often featuring air springs and adaptive damping, isolates passengers from road imperfections while maintaining body control during cornering. Inside, the cabin is a sanctuary of craftsmanship, featuring Nappa leather upholstery, advanced MBUX infotainment systems, and a layout that prioritizes the driver and front passenger while offering rear-seat luxury that rivals first-class airline travel.
Despite its robust engineering, the 2018 S450 is not immune to the common issues faced by high-mileage luxury vehicles. Owners should be aware of potential concerns such as oil consumption, which can be exacerbated by the turbocharger’s high operating temperatures. Using a high-quality synthetic oil like AMSOIL FS European Motor Oil can help mitigate this by maintaining better film strength and reducing deposit formation. Another common issue in turbocharged engines is carbon buildup on intake valves, particularly in Direct Injection (GDI) engines, which can lead to rough idling and reduced power. The regular use of AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver can help prevent this accumulation. Additionally, the S450’s complex electronic suspension and air systems can be sensitive to electrical issues or air leaks, but proper maintenance of fluids and seals can help prevent related mechanical failures. Finally, the A7 or 9-speed automatic transmission requires fluid changes to address potential shudder or delayed engagement issues, which can be resolved by switching to a high-quality synthetic transmission fluid that offers better shear stability and friction control.
For owners of the 2018 S450, the goal is to maintain that factory-fresh driving experience for as long as possible. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the Autobahn, the S450 is built to handle the journey with grace. By adhering to a rigorous maintenance schedule with premium synthetic lubricants, owners can ensure that their vehicle continues to deliver the performance, comfort, and safety that the S-Class reputation demands. The combination of advanced engineering and high-performance fluids ensures that the 2018 S450 remains a formidable luxury sedan well into its future.
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