2002 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG is a high-performance coupe that combines luxury with impressive power. The primary engine option for this model year is the 5.4L Supercharged V8, producing 493 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It was offered exclusively with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the CL55 AMG for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes include its high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs due to the complex systems.

Engine

5.4L Supercharged V8 (M113K)

• Intercooler Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intercooler pump circulates coolant through the supercharger’s intercooler, which cools the intake air charge. If the pump fails, the engine can experience a loss of power, especially during hot weather or sustained high-speed driving. Overheating may also occur in extreme cases.
  • Solution: Replace the intercooler pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Supercharger Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The supercharger engages and disengages via a clutch. Over time, this clutch can wear out or fail, resulting in a noticeable loss of power and a potential rattling noise from the supercharger area.
  • Solution: Replace the supercharger clutch or, in some cases, the entire supercharger unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Crankshaft Position Sensor provides data to the ECU regarding the engine. When this fails, it may cause the vehicle to stall out, or have trouble starting. The car may also start and then immediately die.
  • Solution: Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 722.6 transmission, while generally durable, can experience issues with its valve body. This can cause harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or a complete failure to shift.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the valve body. Some shops may recommend a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can manifest as shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. It can also lead to poor fuel economy and overall transmission performance issues.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. This often requires removing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) System Leaks and Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABC system is known for its complexity and potential for issues. Common problems include hydraulic leaks from the struts, pump failure, and valve block malfunctions. Symptoms include a sagging suspension, uneven ride height, warning lights, and a harsh or bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Repair or replace leaking components, rebuild or replace the ABC pump, and/or replace faulty valve blocks. Flushing the system and replacing the filter is also crucial.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ (depending on the component and extent of damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABC system utilizes hydraulic struts at each corner of the vehicle, which are prone to leaking over time. Symptoms include the vehicle sagging, especially overnight, and a noticeable degradation in ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABC strut. It’s often recommended to replace struts in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut (including labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: The LCD screens in the instrument cluster can suffer from pixel loss, making it difficult to read information such as the odometer, trip computer, and temperature.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster. Some repair services specialize in fixing the LCD screens.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Control Module Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The electronic seat control modules can fail, leading to issues with seat adjustment, heating, and/or memory functions.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Keyless Entry/Central Locking Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the keyless entry system and central locking are common. This can include the key fob not working, doors not unlocking or locking properly, and the alarm system malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the central locking system, replace the key fob battery, reprogram the key fob, or replace the central locking control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can become sticky or fail entirely, preventing the sunroof from opening or closing properly. This can be due to worn-out gears, broken cables, or a malfunctioning motor.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism, including the gears, cables, and/or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Console Button Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The buttons and switches on the center console, particularly those for the climate control and audio system, can become worn or fail to function.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty buttons or switches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (per button/switch)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory navigation system (if equipped) is outdated and can suffer from hardware or software failures. The screen may become unresponsive, the system may not load, or the GPS signal may be lost.
  • Solution: Replacement with an aftermarket unit is common. Repairing the original unit may be possible but can be costly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG offers a thrilling driving experience but comes with a higher risk of potentially expensive repairs. The ABC suspension system and transmission are particularly prone to issues, and electrical problems are not uncommon. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, major repairs to the engine, suspension, or transmission can quickly escalate into thousands of dollars. Prospective buyers should thoroughly inspect the car and be prepared for ongoing maintenance costs.