2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550 is a luxurious coupe known for its powerful performance and elegant design. It’s powered by a 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Some owners appreciate the car’s comfortable ride, opulent interior, and advanced features. Conversely, others dislike its high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

5.5L V8 (M273)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid (Cam Magnet) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: This can cause rough idling, poor performance, and the check engine light to illuminate. Fault codes related to camshaft position may be stored.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Flap Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, check engine light. Diagnostic codes related to the intake manifold flaps are typically present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold flap motor or the entire intake manifold assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, and overall erratic transmission behavior.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body is often required. Sometimes, flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the conductor plate (which contains the transmission control unit) can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ depending on the severity and the chosen repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially during acceleration. Also, unusual noises from the transmission area.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ depending on labor and parts costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The conductor plate is a part of the Mechatronic unit. Failure may cause erratic shifting, limp mode, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacing the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension is prone to leaks and component failures. Symptoms include the vehicle sagging on one or more corners, a rough ride, and the Airmatic warning light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ per strut, $500 - $1500+ for the compressor, and $300-$800+ for the valve block, plus labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABC system can develop leaks in the hydraulic lines, pump failure, or strut issues. This leads to poor handling, sagging, and warning lights.
  • Solution: Replace leaking hoses, the pump, or the ABC struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Very expensive. $1000 - $5000+ per strut. Pump replacement can be similar in cost. Hose repairs can range widely based on location and damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven for a few days.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the parasitic drain source. This could be a faulty module, a malfunctioning sensor, or an issue with the electrical system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source and complexity of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (navigation, audio, climate control) can experience issues such as freezing, reboots, or display problems.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle can fail, leading to warning lights and performance issues. Common culprits include oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and wheel speed sensors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor, plus labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, make excessive noise, or leak.
  • Solution: Lubricate, repair, or replace sunroof components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats stop functioning properly or make noises.
  • Solution: Replace the seat motor or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks can develop on the dashboard surface, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL550, while offering luxury and performance, has a reputation for potentially costly repairs. The Airmatic or ABC suspension systems, along with transmission issues and electrical gremlins, can lead to significant expenses. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can quickly escalate into major repair bills. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their ownership costs.