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2006 Mercedes-Benz CL500

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxury coupe known for its elegant styling, advanced technology, and comfortable ride. In 2006, the CL500 was available with a 5.0L V8 engine that produced 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included the CL600 (V12), CL55 AMG (Supercharged V8), and CL65 AMG (Twin-Turbo V12). The 7-speed automatic transmission was standard on the CL500. Owners often praise the CL500 for its smooth ride, powerful engine, and luxurious features, but common complaints involve the complex air suspension system and electronic components.

Engine

5.0L V8

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, or rear main seal. This can result in oil consumption, a burning oil smell, or oil spots on the ground.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on the source of the leak.
  • Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor performance, check engine light illuminated. Diagnostic codes related to camshaft position.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, stalling, hesitation, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the mass air flow sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear shifts, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, and getting stuck in gear.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000

Suspension

  • Airmatic System Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air compressor running excessively, “Visit Workshop” message on the instrument cluster, complete suspension failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty air spring, air compressor, valve block, or relay. Sometimes, all components need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per air spring, $500-$1500 for compressor, $200-$500 for valve block.
  • ABC (Active Body Control) System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar symptoms to Airmatic, but also includes stiff or uneven ride, and fluid leaks from the hydraulic system. “ABC Visit Workshop” message.
    • Solution: Replacing the ABC pump, struts, hoses, or accumulators. Flushing the ABC fluid and cleaning the filter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $1,500-$3,000 for ABC pump.

Electrical

  • EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the vehicle, steering wheel lock malfunction.
    • Solution: Replacing the EIS module and potentially reprogramming keys.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery frequently draining overnight or after short periods of inactivity.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic draw, which can be caused by faulty modules, lights, or other electrical components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnostic and repair)
  • SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of various electrical systems, such as lights, wipers, windows, or door locks.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty SAM unit and potentially reprogramming it.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming along the fenders, door edges, and undercarriage.
    • Solution: Rust repair, body work, and repainting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per area.

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making grinding noises, or leaking.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Navigation/COMAND System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, not responding to inputs, or displaying errors.
    • Solution: Updating software, repairing the COMAND unit, or replacing the navigation drive.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Recalls

  • Recall Number: 2007040003 - Date: 2007-04-09 - Defect: On Certain Vehicles, The Driver’s Side Impact Airbag Inflator May Develop Cracks In The Outer Wall Of The Inflator, Near The End Cap, Due To An Improper Manufacturing Process. In The Event Of A Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment, Cracks In The Inflator Housing May Allow Pressurized Gas To Escape. In Some Cases, The Inflator May Fracture. This May Result In Reduced Airbag Inflation And/Or Projectile Hazards, Which Could Increase The Risk Of Injury To Vehicle Occupants. Remedy: Dealers Will Inspect The Driver’s Side Impact Airbag Inflator And Replace It If Necessary. The Recall Began During May 2007. Owners May Contact Mercedes-Benz At 1-800-For-Mercedes (1-800-367-6372).

  • Recall Number: 21V024 - Date: 2021-01-28 - Component: Air Bag

    • Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2005-2011 C-Class (203 platform), 2007-2009 CLK-Class (209 platform), 2005-2008 SLK-Class (171 platform), 2006-2011 CLS-Class (219 platform), and 2003-2006 E-Class (211 platform) vehicles. The steel propellant tanks of the air suspension system may corrode and leak.
    • Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers will inspect the airmatic system. If corrosion of the steel propellant tanks is observed, the steel propellant tanks will be replaced with a new one. The remedy will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 29, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA’s number for this recall is 2021010007.

Summary

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL500 offers luxury and performance, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The air suspension system is a frequent source of problems, and electrical issues can also be costly to repair. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems are other potential concerns. Overall, owning a CL500 requires a proactive approach to maintenance and a willingness to address potential problems as they arise. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for major repairs.

Mercedes-Benz, CL500
Mercedes-Benz CL500 2006
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