2011 Mercedes-Benz CL600

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL600 is a luxury coupe known for its powerful engine and opulent features. The CL600 boasts a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V12 engine producing 510 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options available in the CL-Class range include the CL550 with a 4.6-liter V8 and the high-performance CL63 AMG with a 5.5-liter AMG V8. Owners often praise the CL600 for its smooth ride, powerful acceleration, and luxurious interior. However, the high cost of maintenance and repairs, along with potential electrical issues, are common complaints.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V12 (M275)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, and turbocharger seals. May notice oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals. Replacing the oil cooler lines or turbocharger if the leak originates from them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the leak location and parts needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light illuminated. Diagnostic codes pointing to specific cylinder misfires.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on how many need to be replaced and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, whistling or whining noises from the engine, check engine light. Potential for turbocharger failure.
  • Solution: Inspecting and potentially replacing the turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ depending on whether one or both turbos need replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, or complete loss of gear engagement.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. In some cases, a transmission flush and filter change may temporarily alleviate the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ depending on the severity of the issue and the chosen repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, particularly during acceleration. Stalling or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension sagging, uneven ride height, ride height warning lights, compressor failure, leaks in air struts or lines.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines. Diagnosing and repairing leaks in the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for the compressor, varying costs for lines and other components.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain, which could be a faulty module, wiring issue, or aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue and the components involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various system malfunctions, check engine lights, transmission issues, or complete vehicle immobilization.
  • Solution: Replacing or reprogramming the faulty ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ depending on the specific ECU and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, screen malfunctions, navigation problems, or complete system failure.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the nature of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hydraulic Trunk Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Trunk not opening or closing smoothly, leaking fluid, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the hydraulic pump, struts, or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on the component needing repair or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat not adjusting properly, motor noise when attempting to adjust the seat.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor or actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing smoothly, getting stuck, or leaking water.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, repairing or replacing the sunroof motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the severity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL600, while luxurious and powerful, can present owners with a range of issues, particularly concerning the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. The V12 engine is prone to oil leaks and ignition coil failures, while the 5-speed transmission can suffer from valve body problems. The Airmatic suspension is also a common source of trouble, requiring expensive repairs. Electrical issues like battery drains and ECU failures can also be costly to address. Overall, the CL600 can be an expensive vehicle to maintain, and potential buyers should be aware of these common issues.