2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 is a stylish four-door coupe known for its luxurious interior, sleek exterior design, and comfortable ride. The CLS400 features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 329 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the 2016 CLS-Class include the CLS550 with a 4.7-liter V8 and the high-performance CLS63 AMG with a 5.5-liter V8. Owners generally appreciate the CLS400’s elegant styling and refined driving experience, but some common complaints include high maintenance costs and occasional electronic glitches.

Engine

3.0L Twin-Turbo V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the leak
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbochargers, reduced engine power, and potential check engine lights can indicate turbocharger problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the specific issue with the turbocharger, which may involve replacing the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per turbocharger

Transmission

7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, and transmission slipping can all be symptoms of a failing valve body in the 722.9 transmission.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body is often required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration or when coming to a stop, unusual noises (whining, rattling) from the transmission area.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter is generally needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (AIRMATIC)
  • Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC suspension, if equipped, can experience leaks in the air struts or failures in the air compressor. This leads to the car sitting unevenly, a harsh ride, or the suspension failing to raise.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut(s) or the air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut; $700-$1500+ for compressor.

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain quickly, especially if the car is not driven frequently, leading to starting problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the source of the parasitic drain. This could involve replacing the battery, fixing faulty modules, or addressing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, including screen freezes, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation issues.
  • Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the problem.

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof motor can fail, or the sunroof track can become misaligned, causing the sunroof to jam or fail to open/close properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the sunroof motor or repairing the sunroof track.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Summary:

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400, while offering a luxurious experience, can present owners with a range of potential issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems on the 3.0L V6 can be costly to address. The 7G-TRONIC transmission might experience valve body or torque converter failures. Suspension issues with the AIRMATIC system (if equipped) can also lead to significant repair bills. Electrical issues such as battery drain and COMAND system malfunctions are also possibilities. Overall, the CLS400 can be an enjoyable car to own, but prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in potential maintenance costs.