2005 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG is a high-performance coupe boasting a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine producing 493 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the CL-Class in 2005 include the naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 in the CL500 and the 6.0L V12 in the CL600 and CL65 AMG. All engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission for the CL55 AMG. People appreciate the CL55 AMG for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. Common dislikes include its high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

5.4L Supercharged V8 (M113K)

• Intercooler Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, reduced engine power, and a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to intercooler performance. The intercooler pump is responsible for circulating coolant through the intercooler to cool the intake air charge. If it fails, the engine can suffer from heat soak and reduced performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intercooler pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, often resulting in a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or a rough idle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, limp mode, or failure to shift. The conductor plate houses the transmission control unit (TCU) and sensors. When it fails, the transmission can exhibit various shifting problems.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission conductor plate and potentially the TCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, delayed engagement, or slipping.
  • Solution: Valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, stalling, or abnormal noises from the transmission area.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) System Leaks and Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension sagging, uneven ride height, warning lights, and hydraulic fluid leaks. The ABC system is a complex hydraulic suspension system that can be prone to leaks and failures of its components, including the pump, accumulators, struts, and valve blocks.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific issue, which may involve replacing individual components or flushing the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking hydraulic fluid, clunking noises, sagging suspension, or a rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ABC strut.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, the key not being recognized, or the car not responding to the key.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS. This often requires dealer programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, wipers, or other electronic accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific issue and potential replacement or reprogramming of the SAM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: A dead battery, especially after the car has been sitting for a few days. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or component.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Around Wheel Wells and Underbody)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the body panels, particularly around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and underbody.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which may involve sanding, filling, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Command System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system can experience various issues, such as display problems, navigation errors, or audio malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific issue and potential repair or replacement of COMAND components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, sticking, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG, while a powerful and luxurious vehicle, is known for its potential for expensive repairs, particularly concerning the ABC suspension, electrical system, and transmission. Engine issues can also arise, with the intercooler pump and valve cover gaskets being common culprits. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major component failures, and the costs can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the repair. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in maintenance costs when considering purchasing this vehicle.