2012 Mercedes-Benz CL500

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxurious and stylish coupe that offers a comfortable ride and a powerful engine. The CL500 came standard with a 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 engine producing 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a 5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 and a 6.0L Twin-Turbo V12. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission was standard across the range. Owners typically praise the car for its elegant design, powerful engine, comfortable interior, and advanced features. Common complaints include high maintenance costs, complex electronics that can be prone to failure, and the potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

4.7L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks from Camshaft Adjuster Solenoids (Magnet)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are visible around the camshaft adjuster solenoids (also known as magnets). This can lead to a burning oil smell and, if left unchecked, can damage other engine components.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoids and related gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbochargers, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the failed turbocharger(s). It is often recommended to replace both turbos at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between certain gears, sometimes accompanied by a clunking noise. May also experience hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, contaminated fluid, or worn valve body components. A transmission fluid flush and filter change may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $2,000+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, particularly during light acceleration. May also experience stalling or difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The car sits low on one or more corners, the suspension compressor runs excessively, or the car fails to maintain the correct ride height. Error messages may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: This often involves replacing the faulty air strut(s). Leaks in the air lines or a failing air compressor can also cause issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or other electrical problems.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the parasitic drain. This may require specialized diagnostic equipment. Common causes include faulty control modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system may freeze, crash, or display error messages. Some features may stop working altogether.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, the COMAND unit may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may fail to open or close properly, or may make excessive noise during operation.
  • Solution: Lubricating the sunroof tracks and mechanism may resolve the issue. In some cases, the sunroof motor or other components may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Actuator Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seats may not adjust correctly, or may make unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per actuator
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxurious vehicle with the potential for expensive repairs. Common issues include oil leaks, turbocharger failures, transmission problems, and AIRMATIC suspension issues. Electrical gremlins can also be a concern. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs that can cost thousands of dollars. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic specializing in Mercedes-Benz vehicles to identify any potential problems before making a purchase.