2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS500

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS500 is a stylish and luxurious four-door coupe, praised for its elegant design, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. The CLS500 boasts a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. A 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS) is the only transmission available for this model. Some owners appreciate the car’s distinctive styling and comfortable interior, while others find the rear headroom limited due to the sloping roofline. Common complaints often revolve around the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as some electrical gremlins.

Engine

4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 (M278)

• Oil Leaks from Camshaft Adjusters
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks near the front of the engine, potentially leading to a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the camshaft adjuster seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Check Valve in Turbocharger Oiling System
  • Description/Symptoms: Upon start up, the oil will drain out of the turbochargers causing excessive wear.
  • Solution: Replace the check valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS (722.9)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during light acceleration, hesitation when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, getting stuck in gear, transmission malfunction warnings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift erratically, get stuck in a gear, or fail to shift at all. Diagnostic codes related to speed sensors or valve actuation may be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Air Suspension Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor failing to inflate the system, “Visit Workshop” warning light illuminating, ride quality becoming harsh.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air struts: $1000 - $2000+ per strut; Compressor: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or after a few days of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drain by finding the faulty module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, loss of functionality.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Steering Angle Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: ESP/ABS lights illuminating, issues with power steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the steering angle sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises when operating, water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not working, only working intermittently, or overheating.
  • Solution: Replacing the seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS500 presents a mix of potential issues, ranging from moderate to severe in terms of both repair difficulty and cost. The air suspension and transmission issues are among the most expensive to address. Electrical problems, while less predictable, can also lead to significant repair bills. Potential buyers should have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles before purchase and be prepared for potentially higher than average maintenance costs.