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2009 Mercedes-Benz CL500

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxurious grand tourer known for its elegant styling, powerful performance, and advanced technology. The CL500 comes equipped with a 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the 2009 CL-Class include the CL550 (with a revised 5.5L V8) and the higher-performance CL600 (V12), CL63 AMG (V8), and CL65 AMG (V12) models. People generally praise the CL500 for its smooth ride, powerful engine, and comfortable, feature-rich interior. Common complaints include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the complexity of the car’s electronics, which can sometimes lead to reliability issues.

Engine

5.5L V8

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal. Thoroughly cleaning the engine after the repair to remove any residual oil.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft adjuster solenoids can fail, leading to rough idling, poor performance, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation upon acceleration, shuddering, and slipping between gears can indicate torque converter problems.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, and getting stuck in gear are common symptoms of a failing valve body.
    • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Airmatic Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension system is prone to leaks in the air struts and compressor failure. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, particularly overnight, a noisy or non-functional air compressor, and a “Vehicle Too Low” warning on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut(s) and/or the air compressor. It’s often recommended to replace struts in pairs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • ABC (Active Body Control) System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The ABC suspension system can experience leaks in the hydraulic lines, pump failure, and accumulator issues. Symptoms include uneven ride height, a stiff or bouncy ride, and warning messages on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacing leaking hydraulic lines, the hydraulic pump, or accumulators. Flushing the ABC system is often recommended.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on the component needing replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The car may experience a parasitic battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially if the vehicle sits for an extended period.
    • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the drain, which could be a faulty module or improperly installed aftermarket accessory.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • COMAND System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (navigation, audio, climate control) can experience various issues, including screen failures, software glitches, and unresponsive buttons.
    • Solution: Software updates, screen replacement, or module replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: SAM module failures can cause various electrical problems, including lighting issues, problems with the wipers, and malfunctioning sensors.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty SAM module and reprogramming it to the vehicle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs can experience motor failure, track misalignment, and water leaks.
    • Solution: Replacing the sunroof motor, realigning the tracks, or replacing seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The power seat motors and actuators can fail, leading to the inability to adjust the seats.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty motor or actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per seat.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard can develop cracks, especially in hot climates.
    • Solution: Replacing or repairing the dashboard.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL500 offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues that can arise. The Airmatic or ABC suspension, electrical systems, and drivetrain components are the most frequent sources of problems. Repair costs can be significant, particularly for suspension and electronic issues. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles are highly recommended to identify potential problems before purchasing.

Mercedes-Benz, CL500
Mercedes-Benz CL500 2009
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