2013 Mercedes-Benz CL500

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxurious grand tourer known for its elegant design, powerful performance, and opulent features. The CL500 came standard with a 4.6-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Common praises for the car include its smooth ride, powerful acceleration, and high-end interior appointments. Criticisms often revolve around the high cost of maintenance and repairs, complex electronics, and somewhat dated infotainment system compared to newer models. It delivers smooth and effortless cruising, along with a wealth of standard features that reinforce its premium positioning.

Engine

4.6L Twin-Turbo V8 (M278)

• Oil Leaks from Camshaft Adjusters/Magnets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the camshaft adjuster magnets (also known as camshaft solenoids) is a common issue. This can lead to oil dripping onto the engine, creating a burning smell, and potentially damaging other engine components.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster magnets with updated versions. Ensure proper sealing during installation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (depending on the number of magnets needing replacement and labor rates)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The twin-turbochargers can experience issues such as wastegate failure, bearing wear, or oil leaks. Symptoms include a loss of power, unusual noises from the engine, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue with the turbocharger(s). Repair or replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and whether repair or replacement is necessary)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the torque converter causing shuddering or vibrations, particularly at low speeds or during gear changes.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, a software update might alleviate the symptoms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions within the valve body can lead to harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or the transmission getting stuck in a particular gear.
  • Solution: Diagnose the valve body and replace or rebuild it. A transmission fluid flush and filter change is also recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension system can experience failures of the air struts, air compressor, or valve block. This can lead to a sagging suspension, uneven ride height, a rough ride, or a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty component (strut, compressor, valve block). Replace the faulty component. It’s often recommended to replace air struts in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for the compressor, $300 - $800+ for the valve block.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can be a problem, especially if the car is not driven frequently. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the battery drain. Common culprits include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing alternator. Repair or replace the faulty component.
  • 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 can experience glitches, freezes, or complete failures. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Attempt a system reset. If the problem persists, the COMAND unit may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and whether repair or replacement is necessary)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Roof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The panoramic sunroof can experience issues such as sticking, leaking, or motor failure.
  • Solution: Lubricate the tracks and seals. Repair or replace the motor. In severe cases, the entire sunroof assembly may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ (depending on the severity and the parts that need replacing)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Actuator Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seat actuators can fail, causing the seats to become stuck in a particular position or making it impossible to adjust them.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per actuator
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL500, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, can suffer from several common issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems can be significant and costly to repair. The Airmatic suspension is prone to failure, leading to expensive repairs. Electrical gremlins, especially with the COMAND system and battery drain, can also be frustrating. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be quite expensive, making thorough inspection and a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection crucial before buying a used CL500.