2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS550

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 is a luxurious and stylish four-door coupe that offers a blend of performance and comfort. The CLS550 came equipped with a 5.5L V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. While celebrated for its elegant design and powerful engine, owners have reported various issues. Some common praises include its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and distinctive styling. Criticisms often revolve around maintenance costs and some reliability concerns.

Engine

5.5L V8 Engine

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common around the valve cover gaskets. This can lead to a burning smell and visible oil accumulation on the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks from the oil filter housing gasket which results in oil dripping and potentially causing a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, especially at idle, and clunking noises when accelerating or decelerating.
  • Solution: Replace the engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic 7-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.9)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission stuck in limp mode, or failure to shift at all. Diagnostic codes related to speed sensors or valve body malfunctions are common.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate and potentially the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during gear changes, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Leaks/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is prone to leaks in the air struts or air lines. The vehicle may sag on one or more corners, ride height may be uneven, and the air compressor may run constantly or fail.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air struts, air lines, or air compressor. Sometimes, only the air spring bladder within the strut needs replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $300 - $800+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The key may not turn in the ignition, or the car may not start. The dashboard lights may not illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the EIS module and reprogram it to match the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with various electrical functions such as lights, wipers, or power windows. Diagnostic codes may point to a specific SAM module (front or rear).
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific SAM module causing the problem and replace it. Reprogramming may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the bulbs or ballasts.
  • Solution: Reseal the headlight housings, replace the vent caps, or replace the entire headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per headlight depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make grinding noises, or fail to open or close completely.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, rails, or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (Cockpit Management and Data system) can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit, or repair of individual components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS550, while a desirable vehicle, can suffer from a variety of issues, primarily related to its engine, transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. The severity of these problems ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars, especially when addressing air suspension or transmission issues. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in maintenance costs when considering this model.