2004 Mercedes-Benz CL500

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxury coupe known for its elegant styling, comfortable ride, and powerful V8 engine. It offered a blend of performance and sophistication that appealed to discerning buyers. The 2004 CL500 came standard with a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. There were other engine options as well, including a V12 in the CL600 and AMG variants such as the CL55 AMG. Owners often praised the car’s smooth ride, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. However, the CL500 is also known for its complex systems, which can lead to expensive repairs as the car ages. Common complaints often revolve around the air suspension system, electrical glitches, and the cost of maintaining the sophisticated features.

Engine

5.0L V8

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are commonly reported from the valve cover gaskets. This can cause a burning oil smell and potentially damage other engine components.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The crankshaft position sensor can fail, leading to stalling, rough running, or difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, or complete loss of drive. The conductor plate inside the transmission is a common failure point.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate, filter, and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes or while maintaining speed. This can be attributed to a failing torque converter.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Leaks and Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension is a common source of problems. Symptoms include the car sagging on one or more corners, a harsh ride, and the Airmatic warning light illuminating on the dashboard. The air struts, air compressor, and valve block are all potential failure points.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut(s), air compressor, or valve block. It’s often recommended to replace air struts in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ per strut. Air compressor replacement can be $800 - $1500+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some models may be equipped with the more advanced ABC suspension. It is prone to hydraulic leaks from the pump, struts, and lines. This can lead to a loss of ride height control, stiff suspension, and warning lights.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the leak, which may involve replacing hydraulic struts, the hydraulic pump, or individual lines. Flushing the ABC system with new fluid and filter is often recommended after repairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ depending on the component replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixels Failing
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the instrument cluster screen can fail, making it difficult to read important information.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Control Module Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat control modules can fail, causing issues with seat adjustment, lumbar support, or massage functions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car can experience excessive battery drain, especially when parked for extended periods. This can be due to a variety of electrical components not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and isolate the parasitic drain. This often involves systematically disconnecting circuits to identify the source.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, depending on the cause. Could range from $100 for a simple fix to $1000+ for more complex issues.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing the sunroof to get stuck open or closed, or to make unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console and Dashboard Buttons Cracking/Stickiness
  • Description/Symptoms: The soft-touch coating on the center console and dashboard buttons is known to degrade and become sticky or cracked over time.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected trim pieces or refinishing the existing parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the extent of the damage and repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material can detach from the backing and sag, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL500 offers a luxurious driving experience but is known for its complex systems that can lead to expensive repairs. The air suspension, electrical gremlins, and transmission issues are among the most common and costly problems. While some issues are relatively minor, others can require significant investment to resolve. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential maintenance costs and factor them into their purchase decision.