2011 Mercedes-Benz CL500

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxurious grand tourer coupé, offering a blend of performance and comfort. For the US market, it primarily came with a 4.7L Twin Turbo V8 engine producing 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The CL500 offered exhilarating acceleration and a smooth ride. Common praises include its elegant styling, comfortable interior, and advanced technology features. Criticisms often revolve around its high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

4.7L Twin Turbo V8 (M278)

• Camshaft Adjuster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise at startup, especially when cold. Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination. Poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft adjuster (phaser) and potentially related components like timing chains and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Filter Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine. Burning oil smell. Low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or the oil filter housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during low-speed acceleration or when coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter or a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting. Slipping between gears. Delayed engagement. Transmission going into limp mode.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low on one or more corners. Air compressor failing. “Vehicle Too Low” warning. Air leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut; $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) System Leaks and Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, ABC warning lights. Hydraulic leaks and pump failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking hoses, struts, pulsation dampener and/or the ABC pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, such as the car not starting, the engine cutting out, or the transmission not shifting properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ECU and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery repeatedly draining, especially when the car is left for extended periods.
  • Solution: Identification and repair of the parasitic drain. This could involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Roof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure to open or close properly. Leaks. Excessive wind noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the panoramic roof mechanism or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Display screen freezing, malfunctioning navigation, audio issues, or the system not powering on.
  • Solution: Software update, repair, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not working. Overheating seat.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL500 offers a luxurious experience but can be prone to expensive repairs. The most common issues involve the engine, transmission, suspension (particularly the Airmatic and ABC systems), and electrical components. Many of the repairs can be costly due to the complexity of the systems and the price of Mercedes-Benz parts. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs. The severity of the problems ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, so a thorough inspection before purchase is highly recommended.