2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500
2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500
Overview
The 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500, part of the C219 generation, is a luxury grand tourer known for its distinctive styling and powerful performance. Powered by a robust 5.0-liter V8 engine, it offers a refined driving experience. While generally well-regarded for its build quality and comfort, like any vehicle of its age, it can experience specific issues. Owners often report on the reliability of its powertrain, the sophisticated electronic systems, and the long-term durability of its interior and exterior components. This analysis focuses on common, documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential repair costs and solutions for prospective or current owners.
Engine
5.0L V8 (M113)
Oil Cooler Seals Leak
- Symptoms: Oil in coolant reservoir, coolant in oil, overheating.
- Solution: Replace oil cooler seals and flush cooling system.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
- Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, check engine light.
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, stalling, difficulty starting.
- Solution: Replace faulty camshaft position sensor(s).
- Cost: $200 - $400
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (722.6)
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears, limp mode, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Replace or repair the transmission control module.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Conductor Plate Failure
- Symptoms: Erratic shifting, no gear engagement, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Replace the transmission conductor plate.
- Cost: $500 - $900
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, loss of ride height adjustment, compressor not running.
- Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor and potentially air springs.
- Cost: $700 - $1200
Control Arm Bushing Wear
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings or entire control arms.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Electrical
General Electrical System
Window Regulator Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window movement, grinding noise.
- Solution: Replace the window regulator mechanism.
- Cost: $300 - $500
Headlight Ballast Failure
- Symptoms: Xenon headlights not turning on or flickering.
- Solution: Replace the faulty headlight ballast.
- Cost: $250 - $450
SAM Unit (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
- Symptoms: Various electrical gremlins, interior lights malfunctioning, CAN bus errors.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the SAM unit.
- Cost: $600 - $1200
Exterior
Body and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Cabin Components
Headliner Sagging
- Symptoms: Fabric detaching from the headliner board.
- Solution: Re-glue or replace the headliner.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Seat Heater Element Failure
- Symptoms: Heated seats not working.
- Solution: Replace the seat heating element or associated wiring.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Summary Verdict
The 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500 offers a compelling blend of luxury and performance, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The 5.0L V8 engine is generally robust, but leaks from oil cooler seals and intake manifold gaskets are known. The 5-speed automatic transmission can suffer from TCM or conductor plate failures, leading to shifting problems. Suspension components, particularly air suspension parts if equipped, and control arm bushings can require attention. Electrical gremlins, such as window regulators, headlight ballasts, and SAM unit issues, are not uncommon in vehicles of this age. Interior components like sagging headliners and seat heater failures also appear. Despite these potential drawbacks, with diligent maintenance and prompt repair of identified issues, the CLS500 can remain a reliable and enjoyable luxury vehicle.