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Mercedes Benz Cl500 Problems

The Mercedes-Benz CL500 served as the flagship personal luxury coupe in Mercedes' lineup, offering S-Class refinement in a pillarless two-door body. The W215 generation (2000-2006) featured the M113 V8 engine and cutting-edge technology for its era. With 128 complaints and no fatalities, the CL500 proved relatively dependable for such a complex flagship. The 2002 model year accumulated the most complaints, while 2003 benefited from early production refinements.

128
Total Complaints
0
Total Recalls
8
Model Years
0
Reported Deaths
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1999 2003 2005

Common Problem Categories

Electrical System 38
Suspension 30
Exterior Lighting 10
Engine 8
Service Brakes 6

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2006 14 0 0 0 Average
2005 8 0 0 0 Good
2004 32 0 0 2 Below Average
2003 2 0 0 0 Good
2002 36 0 0 8 Below Average
2001 16 0 0 2 Average
2000 14 0 0 4 Average
1999 6 0 0 0 Good

Mercedes Benz Cl500 Years to Avoid

2002

Best Mercedes Benz Cl500 Years

2003

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Mercedes CL500?

ABC (Active Body Control) suspension failures are the most expensive and common complaint. Electrical gremlins affecting the COMAND system, seat controls, and various sensors also feature prominently. The M113 V8 itself is generally reliable.

How much does ABC suspension repair cost?

ABC repairs can range from 2,000 to 8,000 dollars depending on the component. Complete system failure requiring multiple struts and pump replacement can exceed 10,000 dollars. This is the primary financial risk of CL500 ownership.

Is the Mercedes CL500 reliable?

The drivetrain is solid, but the complexity of supporting systems makes long-term reliability challenging. Budget for ABC suspension work and electrical repairs. Low-mileage examples with documented ABC service history are most desirable.

Should I buy a used Mercedes CL500?

Only if you accept potentially high repair costs or convert to conventional suspension. A 2003-2006 model with recent ABC service and complete records can be a magnificent grand tourer, but this is not an economical ownership experience.