2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS350

Introduction to the 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS350

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS350 is a sleek and stylish sedan that combines luxury and performance. It comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options include a 5.5-liter V8 with 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.6-liter V8 with 435 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque. The CLS350 is praised for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and impressive fuel efficiency. However, it is also known for its high cost and some common issues.

Engine

3.5-liter V6

• Oil Leaks: Some vehicles have experienced oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets.
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips on the engine and below the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Flaps: The intake manifold flaps may become stuck or malfunction.
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced engine power, and engine stalls.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-speed Automatic

• Hesitation and Shifting Problems: Some transmissions have exhibited hesitation and rough shifting during gear changes.
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay in gear engagement, clunky or jerky shifts.
  • Solution: Update the transmission software or replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems: The air suspension system may experience leaks or compressor failures.
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits unevenly, excessive vibration, loss of suspension control.
  • Solution: Replace the air struts or compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge Issue: Some vehicles have experienced premature battery discharge.
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, repeated jump starts required.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical drains or replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation: Some vehicles have experienced condensation buildup inside the headlights.
  • Description/Symptoms: Foggy or cloudy headlights, reduced visibility at night.
  • Solution: Replace the headlights or reseal them.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Panel Buzzing: The door panels may vibrate or rattle at certain frequencies.
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying buzzing or rattling sounds from the door panels.
  • Solution: Apply sound dampening material or adjust the door panel fit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS350 is a luxurious and sporty sedan with a number of desirable features. However, it is not without its problems. The most common issues reported by owners include oil leaks, intake manifold issues, transmission problems, air suspension issues, battery discharge, headlight condensation, and door panel buzzing. While some of these issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be quite costly to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues before purchasing a used CLS350.