NHTSA Service Bulletin 10235668: 2021-2023 Mercedes-benz S 500
Official manufacturer communication context for 2021-2023 Mercedes-benz S 500, with affected products, buyer checks and links into Carchieve recall, problem and VIN research.
Reviewed June 2026 from NHTSA manufacturer communication and service bulletin records. Carchieve is independent and not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer or government agency.
Complaint Static noises from speakers while driving (see video labeled example of noise). Static noise is no longer present after opening a window (slightly) or when sliding sunroof is in tilt position. Cause A total of 4 sensors are installed at the axle housings for the "Active driving noise compensation" function. These record driving noise and transfer them to control unit N156/1 - Active driving sound compensation (ASX7) as electrical pulses. The angle bracket of the sensor may come into contact with the longitudinal member of the body. As a result, unintended vibration may be transferred via the bracket to the sensor. The control unit interprets this as driving noise and tries to compensate, causing noise in the speakers. Remedy Check assembly of sensors particularly, the brackets, and ensure that they do not come into contact with the body. If this does not remedy the problem, please create a TIPS case. NOTE: There may be no mechanical forces on the sensor as there may be a danger of damage.
What this bulletin may mean before buying
Treat this as service research, not a verdict on one car. Before you buy, compare this communication with official recall campaigns, model-level owner complaint patterns, and the exact vehicle’s VIN-decoded specifications. A bulletin can help you ask a seller or dealer sharper questions about software updates, known repairs, warranty extensions and service history.
Affected products listed in this communication
Buyer checklist
- Run the 17-character VIN and confirm the year, make, model, engine and equipment match the listing.
- Check recall campaign pages for safety actions that may require dealer repair.
- Compare this bulletin with common problem pages for the same model and component area.
- Ask the seller or dealer whether the bulletin procedure, update or inspection has already been completed.
- Use the used-car buying checklist and get an independent inspection.
Frequently asked questions
What is NHTSA service bulletin 10235668?
Complaint Static noises from speakers while driving (see video labeled example of noise). Static noise is no longer present after opening a window (slightly) or when sliding sunroof is in tilt position. Cause A total of 4 sensors are installed at the axle housings for the "Active driving noise compensation" function. These record driving noise and transfer them to control unit N156/1 - Active driving sound.
Is a service bulletin the same as a recall?
No. A recall is a safety campaign with a required remedy for affected VINs. A service bulletin or manufacturer communication usually describes diagnostic, repair, software, warranty or service information.
How should a used-car buyer use this bulletin?
Use it as a research signal. Compare it with recalls, owner complaints, service records, a VIN report and an independent inspection before buying.
Check the exact VIN before you buy
Model-level pages show public safety patterns. A full VIN report helps confirm the exact vehicle, decoded specs, recall applicability and buyer checks.
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