2005 Mercedes-Benz CL500

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxury coupe that offers a blend of performance and comfort. The standard engine is a 5.0L V8 producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful CL600 model was also available with a V12 engine. For the CL500, many owners appreciate the smooth ride, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. However, the complex electronics and air suspension can be prone to issues, leading to potentially high repair costs. Reliability ratings from J.D. Power were below average when the car was new, and this has generally continued as the vehicles have aged.

Engine

5.0L M113 V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks commonly develop from the valve cover gaskets and the front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots on the ground, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may experience rough running, stalling, and a check engine light with codes related to camshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

722.9 7-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all. Diagnostic trouble codes related to the transmission may be present. Can manifest as a clunk.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrating at certain speeds, especially during light acceleration. Can also cause stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The car may sag on one or more corners, the suspension compressor may run constantly, or the “Visit Workshop” message may appear on the dash. Leaks in the air struts or the air lines are common.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air struts, repair of air lines, or replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $300 - $800+ for compressor replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar symptoms to Airmatic, but ABC also controls body roll. Expect to see fluid leaks, ride height problems, and warning messages. Noises can be heard from the pump.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing ABC pump, struts, accumulators, or hoses. System flush may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $4000+ depending on the component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, or intermittent starting issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with various electrical components such as lights, wipers, windows, or locks. Can be caused by water intrusion or electrical shorts.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty SAM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven for several days. This can be due to a faulty component not shutting down properly or a parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise, or fail to open or close properly. Issues are usually with the motor, tracks, or cables.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Command System Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system, which controls navigation, audio, and other functions, may freeze, crash, or fail to boot up.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the COMAND unit. Software updates may also resolve some issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seats may not move in certain directions, or the motors may make grinding noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat motors or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per motor
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2005 Mercedes-Benz CL500 offers a luxurious experience, but it’s important to be aware of the potential issues. The most common problems revolve around the air suspension, transmission, and electrical systems. Repairs can be costly, especially for the Airmatic or ABC suspension and electrical modules. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the car’s service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles.