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2002 Mercedes-Benz CL200

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL200, also known as the C-Class Sportcoupé, was a stylish and compact hatchback that offered a blend of sporty handling and Mercedes-Benz luxury. Engine options varied depending on the market, but commonly included a range of inline-four and V6 gasoline engines, as well as inline-four diesel engines. A popular choice was the 2.0L inline-four gasoline engine, producing around 129 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. What owners generally appreciate is its fuel efficiency and compact size which makes it great for city driving. Some of the common complaints about the vehicle are the small back seat, the complicated electronics, and the sport-tuned suspension can make the ride uncomfortable on rough roads.

Engine

2.0L Inline-Four Gasoline (M111)

  • Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine hesitation, poor fuel economy, rough idling, check engine light illumination. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to MAF sensor readings.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty MAF sensor with a new or refurbished unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or complete failure to start. Intermittent engine performance issues. Check engine light illumination with related DTCs.
    • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

V6 Gasoline (M112)

  • Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the valve covers, burning oil smell, low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Catalytic Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor emissions test results, reduced engine performance, rattling noise from underneath the car.
    • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+

2.2L Inline-Four Diesel (OM611)

  • Fuel Injector Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, black smoke from exhaust, reduced power, poor fuel economy.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty fuel injector(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noise from the engine bay, reduced power, excessive oil consumption, black smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, shuddering at low speeds, delayed or harsh shifts, abnormal noises from the transmission.
    • Solution: Replacement or refurbishment of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed shifting, failure to shift properly, transmission slipping, getting stuck in one gear, error codes stored.
    • Solution: Replacement or refurbishment of the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700-$1200

6-Speed Manual (Getrag 235)

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage during acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal sticking, grinding noises when shifting, complete loss of clutch engagement.
    • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. May also include resurfacing or replacement of the flywheel.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1600+

Suspension

  • Front Lower Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, loose steering, vibrations while driving.
    • Solution: Replacement of the front lower ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Sway Bar Link Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
    • Solution: Replacement of the sway bar links.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of gauges, warning lights, or the display screen. Flickering or dimming of the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster. Sometimes resoldering connections can fix the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Central Locking System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock remotely, issues with the key fob, malfunctioning door lock actuators.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific component failure (e.g., door lock actuator, key fob, central locking module) and replacement/reprogramming as needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the issue
  • Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window fails to go up or down, or it gets stuck. Noises from the door panel.
    • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500

Exterior

  • Rust on Door Panels/Wheel Arches
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots and bubbles forming on the lower door panels, wheel arches, and other areas prone to moisture accumulation.
    • Solution: Removal of rust, body filler application, sanding, and repainting the affected areas. In severe cases, panel replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel

Interior

  • Sunroof Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, making excessive noise, or leaking water.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific problem (e.g., motor failure, broken tracks, damaged seals) and repair or replacement of the faulty components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Climate Control Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air, heater not producing warm air, inconsistent temperatures, malfunctioning climate control display.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific issue (e.g., refrigerant leak, compressor failure, faulty blend door actuator, malfunctioning climate control module) and repair or replacement as needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+

Recalls

  • 2005040001
  • 2003050002
  • 2003040001
  • 2002110001
  • 2002030001
  • 2001100002

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL200 presents a mix of potential issues, ranging from moderate engine and transmission problems to electrical and suspension concerns. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with engine and transmission repairs potentially reaching into the thousands of dollars, while suspension and electrical issues are typically less expensive. Rust is also a major concern with the car. Careful inspection and addressing these issues proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability.

Mercedes-Benz, CL200
Mercedes-Benz CL200 2002
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