2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS350

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS350 is a stylish four-door coupe known for its luxurious interior, sleek design, and comfortable ride. The CLS350 features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 306 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Although highly desirable, some owners have reported a handful of issues over time. Some like the styling, performance, and features of the vehicle while some dislike the reliability issues and cost of maintenance. Other available engine options included the CLS500 with a 4.7-liter V8 and the CLS63 AMG with a 5.5-liter V8. All engine options were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.5L V6 (M276)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, decreased engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, oil consumption increases, burning oil smell. Common areas are valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+ depending on location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, getting stuck in a gear, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and valve body with an updated version is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running constantly, “Visit Workshop” message related to air suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air strut(s) or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $600 - $1200+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airmatic Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The airmatic compressor will struggle to raise the vehicle which results in a malfunction being displayed on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Airmatic compressor replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use for extended periods.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic drain. This could involve replacing faulty modules (e.g., SAM unit, amplifier, or other electronic components).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, unable to start the car, steering wheel locked.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty EIS.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panorama Roof Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Panorama roof malfunctions, gets stuck, motor failure, leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the faulty components of the panorama roof system (motor, seals, or the entire assembly).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Command System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: COMAND screen freezes, unresponsive buttons, navigation issues, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the COMAND unit if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof gets stuck, motor failure, leaking
  • Solution: Repair or replace faulty sunroof
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS350 offers a luxurious experience but is prone to certain issues. The most concerning problems revolve around the transmission, air suspension (if equipped), and electrical systems, which can lead to high repair costs. Engine issues, while present, are less frequent but still require attention. Addressing these potential problems proactively and maintaining the vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommendations can help mitigate the risks and extend the lifespan of the car.