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2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS500

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS500 is a stylish and luxurious four-door coupe that blends the sleek aesthetics of a coupe with the practicality of a sedan. The CLS500 is equipped with a 5.5-liter V8 engine, producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the CLS-Class in other markets included various V6 and diesel engines, though the CLS500 remained the top-spec engine in the US. The CLS500 is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the CLS500 for its distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. However, some common complaints include high maintenance costs, electrical issues, and occasional problems with the air suspension.

Engine

5.5L V8 Engine

  • Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, leading to a burning smell and potential oil consumption. Oil may be visible on the sides of the engine block.
    • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing gasket, leading to oil loss and a potential mess in the engine bay.
    • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to camshaft position. Rough idling or stalling may also occur.
    • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft adjuster solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic Transmission (7G-Tronic)

  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or hesitation during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Valve Body Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or transmission slipping.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Pilot Bushing Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak where the electrical connector meets the transmission. Can cause shifting issues and damage the transmission control module.
    • Solution: Replacement of the pilot bushing and cleaning of any affected connectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Suspension

  • Airmatic Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The car may sag on one or more corners, the ride may become excessively bouncy, or the Airmatic compressor may run continuously. Error messages related to the suspension may appear on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, Airmatic compressor, or valve block, depending on the specific issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,200+ for the compressor.
  • Air Strut Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaks in the front air struts resulting in a loss of air pressure and sagging of the vehicle. This will cause the air compressor to run more often and will eventually cause it to fail.
    • Solution: Replacement of the front air struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$1,500+ Per Strut

Electrical

  • EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, key not recognized, or the car not responding to the key.
    • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as lights not working, wipers not functioning, or other electronic accessories failing.
    • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the SAM module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use. This can be caused by various parasitic drains, such as faulty modules or accessories.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the source of the battery drain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause).

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation
    • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the headlight components.
    • Solution: Removal and resealing of the headlight housings, or replacement of the headlights.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per headlight, depending on the repair method and whether new headlights are needed.

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making grinding noises, or becoming stuck.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, cables, or other components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Recalls:

  • None Found

Summary

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS500, while a luxurious and stylish vehicle, is prone to some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most significant concerns revolve around the air suspension, electrical systems, and potential transmission problems. Repairs can be costly, particularly those related to the Airmatic suspension and the 7-speed transmission. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help mitigate these problems. However, owning a CLS500 may require a higher budget for maintenance and repairs compared to other vehicles in its class.

Mercedes-Benz, CLS500
Mercedes-Benz CLS500 2010
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