2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS350

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS350 is a four-door coupe known for its sleek styling and luxurious features. In addition to the CLS350, other engine options for the 2010 CLS models included the CLS500 (also known as the CLS550 in some markets) and the high-performance CLS63 AMG. The CLS350 engine is a 3.5-liter V6 engine which produces approximately 272 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the CLS350’s stylish design, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. Common complaints include higher maintenance costs associated with Mercedes-Benz vehicles and potential issues with electronic components.

Engine

3.5L V6 (M272)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may experience rough idling, reduced power, and the check engine light may illuminate. Diagnostic codes related to camshaft timing are often present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Tumble Flap Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic tumble flaps inside the intake manifold can break, causing rough running, loss of power, and a check engine light. This is a common issue with the M272 engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold. Some aftermarket repair kits are available to replace just the tumble flaps, but this is often a temporary fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Filter Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the location of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, or complete loss of gear engagement. Often accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes related to valve body performance.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the valve body. In some cases, only specific solenoids within the valve body need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ (depending on repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The conductor plate, located inside the transmission, houses the electronic sensors and controls. Failure can lead to erratic shifting, limp mode, and diagnostic trouble codes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate. This requires dropping the transmission pan and replacing the plate. The transmission control unit (TCU) may also need to be reprogrammed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension system, if equipped, can experience problems with air leaks in the air springs (struts), compressor failure, or valve block malfunction. This leads to the car sitting low, uneven ride height, or a non-functional suspension system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty air springs, compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The EIS module can fail, preventing the key from being recognized and the car from starting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The SAM controls various electrical functions. Failures can cause issues with lighting, wipers, and other electrical components.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM unit and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Specific to Geographic Location)
  • Description/Symptoms: In regions with heavy salt usage on roads during winter, rust can develop on body panels, especially around the wheel wells and door edges.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing it to become stuck, make excessive noise, or leak.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS350 can present owners with a range of issues, from engine and transmission problems to suspension and electrical system malfunctions. While some issues like camshaft adjuster solenoid failures are relatively minor, others like Airmatic suspension or valve body problems can be quite expensive to repair. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs and the importance of thorough pre-purchase inspection. The severity of these issues ranges from inconvenient to potentially immobilizing, and the costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the problem.