2004 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG

Introduction: The 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG is a high-performance luxury coupe powered by a 5.4-liter V8 engine that produces 493 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission. The CL55 AMG is known for its exceptional handling, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. However, some owners have reported specific issues with the vehicle.

Engine 5.4L V8 Engine

• Cam Adjuster Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The cam adjuster solenoid fails, causing rough idling, poor engine performance, and reduced fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Replace the cam adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Flap Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold flaps malfunction, leading to a loss of power, hesitation during acceleration, and a rough idle.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold or intake manifold flaps.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The fuel injectors fail, causing a misfire, poor engine performance, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the failed fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips out of gear, especially during upshifts, resulting in a loss of power and rough shifting.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission valve body fails, causing erratic shifting, delayed engagement, and transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mounts fail, leading to a knocking noise, poor ride quality, and excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Compressor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor fails, causing the suspension to drop to its lowest setting, reducing ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains prematurely, causing difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Determine the source of the battery drain and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Xenon Headlight Ballast Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The xenon headlight ballast fails, resulting in one or both headlights not illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ballast(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ per ballast
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Clear Coat Peeling:
  • Description/Symptoms: The clear coat on the exterior paint peels or flakes off, reducing the vehicle’s appearance and exposing the paint to damage.
  • Solution: Repaint the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof motor fails, preventing the sunroof from opening or closing properly.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system malfunctions, leading to inaccurate directions, frozen screen, or difficulty operating the system.
  • Solution: Update the navigation software or replace the navigation system unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels on the instrument cluster fail, causing partial or complete loss of display.
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary While the 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG offers impressive performance and luxury, it is not without its issues. The engine, transmission, and suspension components have been reported to have various problems that can be costly to repair. Electrical and interior issues, though less severe, can still impact the overall ownership experience. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering the purchase of this vehicle.