2009 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG is a high-performance luxury coupe known for its powerful engine and sophisticated features. The CL63 AMG comes standard with a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 518 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC). Some owners appreciate its luxurious interior, distinctive styling, and impressive acceleration. However, common complaints often revolve around high maintenance costs, potential for expensive repairs, and complex electronic systems.

Engine

6.2L M156 V8

• Camshaft Adjuster Bolts Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The original camshaft adjuster bolts (also known as camshaft sprocket bolts) can be prone to failure. Symptoms include a ticking or rattling noise from the engine, especially on cold starts. If the bolts break, it can cause significant engine damage, including valve train damage or complete engine failure.
  • Solution: Replace the original camshaft adjuster bolts with updated, higher-strength bolts. This often involves removing the camshafts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of any damage and shop rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gaskets Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gaskets can degrade and leak over time, leading to vacuum leaks. Symptoms include rough idle, poor performance, and potential check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Lifter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the hydraulic valve lifters (tappets) becoming noisy or failing, leading to a ticking sound from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected valve lifters. In some cases, camshaft replacement might also be necessary if the lobes are worn.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ depending on the extent of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations on the engine, including the valve covers, oil filter housing, and rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 722.9 transmission, while generally reliable, can experience valve body issues. Symptoms include rough shifting, delayed engagement, and potential slipping.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, leading to transmission slipping, shuddering, or a complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is prone to leaks and component failures, including air struts, the air compressor, and valve block. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, the suspension failing to raise or lower, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut, $800 - $1,500 for the compressor, $300-$800 for the valve block.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The ECU can sometimes experience software glitches or hardware failures, leading to various performance issues and check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Reflashing the ECU software or replacing the ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience pixelation, flickering, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight housings, leading to condensation.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight housing and drying out the moisture, or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for DIY, $500 - $2,000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Command System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Updating the COMAND software or replacing the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG offers exhilarating performance and luxurious features, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine problems, particularly those related to the camshaft adjuster bolts and valve lifters, can be severe and costly to repair. Airmatic suspension failures are also a common concern. Electrical system glitches and issues with the COMAND system can be frustrating as well. Overall, while the CL63 AMG is a desirable vehicle, thorough inspection and diligent maintenance are essential to mitigate the risk of expensive repairs.