2012 Mercedes-Benz CL600

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL600 is a luxury coupe known for its powerful V12 engine and opulent features. Other engine options available for the 2012 CL-Class include a V8 engine in the CL550. The CL600 boasts a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 510 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise the CL600 for its smooth ride, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. Common complaints typically revolve around the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the complexity of the vehicle’s electronics.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V12 (M275)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots on the ground, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or lines is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per coil.
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can experience issues such as wastegate actuator failure or oil leaks. This can result in reduced power, whistling noises, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger.

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can experience shuddering, slipping, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve body, which controls the flow of transmission fluid, can experience wear and tear, leading to erratic shifting, harsh shifts, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) System Leaks/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABC system, which provides adjustable suspension damping, is prone to leaks and component failure. Symptoms include a sagging suspension, warning lights, and a harsh ride.
  • Solution: Replacing leaking hoses, struts, or the pump. Flushing the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the component and severity.
• ABC Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete failure of the ABC pump.
  • Solution: Replacing the ABC pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The CL600 has a complex electrical system that can be prone to parasitic battery drain. This can lead to a dead battery, especially if the vehicle is not driven regularly.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system, which controls the navigation, audio, and climate control functions, can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The SAM controls various electrical functions. Failure can cause various electrical malfunctions, such as lighting issues or sensor malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty SAM module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuators can fail, making it difficult to lock or unlock the doors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door.
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing the sunroof to get stuck or leak.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat motors can fail, making it difficult to adjust the seats.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat.
• Dashboard Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: The leather or vinyl on the dashboard can delaminate or peel, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Recovering or replacing the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+

Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL600, while offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience, is prone to several common issues. The most significant problems revolve around the ABC suspension system, engine oil leaks, and electrical system complexities. Repairs can be costly due to the vehicle’s sophisticated components and the labor involved in accessing them. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in maintenance costs when considering purchasing this vehicle.