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2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600 is a luxury coupe that offered a blend of performance and comfort. The CL600 was powered by a 5.8L V12 engine producing 362 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the CL-Class in 2002 included a 5.0L V8 in the CL500 and a 5.4L AMG V8 in the CL55 AMG. All engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the CL600’s powerful engine, smooth ride, and luxurious interior, however, the complex electronics and high maintenance costs are often cited as drawbacks.

Engine

5.8L V12 (M137)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. These leaks can cause oil consumption, engine bay mess, and potentially damage other components.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ depending on the location and extent of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coil Pack Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and reduced engine performance. The V12 engine has two coil packs per cylinder bank, which are prone to failure due to heat and age.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per coil pack.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, hesitation, and potential stalling. The MAF sensor can become contaminated or fail over time, leading to inaccurate readings and incorrect fuel mixture.
    • Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all. The valve body contains intricate solenoids and valves that can wear or become clogged over time.
    • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially when accelerating from a stop. The torque converter can fail due to wear or overheating.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • ABC (Active Body Control) System Leaks/Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The ABC suspension system is complex and prone to leaks in the hydraulic lines, struts, and pump. This can lead to a loss of ride height, uneven suspension, and warning lights on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacing leaking components, rebuilding the ABC pump, or flushing the system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the damage. ABC system repairs can be very expensive.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • ABC Strut Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking struts, causing the vehicle to sag on one or more corners. Ride quality will be significantly degraded.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty strut(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per strut.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Pixelation
    • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the instrument cluster display fade or disappear, making it difficult to read information.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as lights not working, wipers malfunctioning, or starting problems. The SAM module controls many of the vehicle’s electrical functions.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty SAM module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use. This can be caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module or component.
    • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic drain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the cause.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator fails to lock or unlock the door, or makes a grinding noise.
    • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The power seats do not move in one or more directions due to a failed motor.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per motor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sunroof Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof either does not open/close, or opens/closes erratically.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty sunroof motor or regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, is known for its potential for expensive repairs. Issues with the engine, transmission, and particularly the ABC suspension system, can lead to significant repair bills. Electrical problems are also common. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision. Due to the age of the vehicle, these issues will inevitably arise with most of them.

Mercedes-Benz, CL600
Mercedes-Benz CL600 2002
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