2000 Mercedes-Benz CL500

The 2000 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxurious coupe known for its elegant design and powerful performance. The CL500 came standard with a 5.0L V8 engine that produced 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the CL-Class included the CL600 with a V12 engine and the high-performance CL55 AMG with a modified V8. The CL500 came standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the CL500 for its smooth ride, powerful engine, and comfortable interior. Common complaints revolve around the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as potential issues with the car’s complex electronics and hydraulics.

Engine

5.0L M113 V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, rear main seal, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the location and severity of the leak.
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MAF sensor can fail, leading to poor engine performance, rough idling, stalling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Catalytic converters can fail due to age and excessive heat, resulting in a check engine light (typically P0420 or P0430 codes), reduced engine performance, and a sulfur smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Transmission Slippage/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 722.6 transmission is known for potential issues with the conductor plate, valve body, and transmission fluid leaks. Symptoms include slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, and a general lack of responsiveness.
  • Solution: Replacing the conductor plate and filter, replacing the valve body, and addressing any fluid leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks from the electrical connector sleeve.
  • Solution: Replace the electrical connector sleeve, clean the TCM of oil residue, and perform a transmission service with a new filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABC suspension system is notorious for being problematic. Common issues include leaks from the hydraulic lines, struts, and pump. Symptoms include a sagging suspension, warning lights on the dashboard, and a rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty hydraulic components, rebuilding the hydraulic pump, and flushing the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ per component. The ABC system can be extremely costly to repair.
• Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABC struts are prone to failure. Symptoms include leaking fluid, sagging suspension, and a bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ per strut.

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the instrument cluster can fade or disappear, making it difficult to read important information.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• PSE (Pneumatic System Equipment) Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The PSE pump controls the central locking system, trunk release, and other pneumatic functions. Failure can result in these features not working.
  • Solution: Replacing the PSE pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can occur, especially in areas prone to salt exposure. Areas to check include the wheel wells, door bottoms, and around the trunk lid.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the extent of the rust.

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions are common, including problems with opening, closing, or getting stuck.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Summary

The 2000 Mercedes-Benz CL500, while luxurious and powerful, is known for its potential reliability issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the ABC suspension system, transmission, and electrical components, which can lead to expensive repairs. Oil leaks from the engine are also common. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the high cost of maintenance and repair when considering purchasing this vehicle. The severity of the issues can range from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, and the cost of repairs can quickly add up.