2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS550

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 is a luxurious four-door coupe known for its stylish design and powerful performance. The CLS550 is equipped with a 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2014 CLS lineup included a less powerful V6 in the CLS400 and an AMG-tuned V8 in the CLS63 AMG. All engine options were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the CLS550 for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and strong acceleration, but some common complaints include high maintenance costs, electrical issues, and occasional suspension problems.

Engine

4.6L Twin-Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks from Turbocharger Oil Lines
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are observed near the turbochargers, often accompanied by a burning oil smell. The oil level may decrease faster than expected.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger oil supply and return lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Adjuster (Magnet) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, rough idling, and potential loss of power. Diagnostic codes related to camshaft position deviations are often present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster magnet(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ per magnet
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (7-Speed Automatic)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Trouble shifting and harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, a transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement of gears, and potential for “limp mode.” Diagnostic codes related to valve body malfunctions are present.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits lower than normal, especially overnight. The “Car Too Low” warning light illuminates. The air suspension compressor may run constantly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the AIRMATIC air suspension compressor. Also check for leaks in the air struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• AIRMATIC Strut Failure/Air Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle leans to one side, especially after being parked overnight. Hissing sound may be heard near the strut. The air suspension compressor works harder to compensate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty AIRMATIC strut.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains overnight or within a few days of being parked. Difficult starting or failure to start.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drain. Possible causes include faulty door control modules, seat control modules, or the COMAND system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system freezes, restarts unexpectedly, or displays error messages. Navigation, audio, and Bluetooth functions may be affected.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly. The motor may make a grinding noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, regulator, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 offers a blend of luxury and performance, but potential buyers should be aware of potential issues. The most significant problems revolve around the air suspension system, engine oil leaks, and transmission issues. Electrical gremlins and COMAND system failures can also be a source of frustration. While some repairs may be relatively inexpensive, others, particularly those involving the suspension or transmission, can be costly. Performing a thorough inspection and obtaining a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic are highly recommended before purchasing a used 2014 CLS550.