2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS550

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 is a stylish and luxurious four-door coupe known for its elegant design, powerful performance, and comfortable ride. The CLS550 features a 4.7L Twin Turbo V8 engine producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. A significant advantage of the CLS550 is its powerful engine and smooth ride quality. Owners appreciate the car’s attractive design and luxurious interior. However, some common complaints include the high cost of maintenance, potential for electrical issues, and the relatively cramped rear seating compared to a traditional sedan. Other engine options for this year included the CLS400 with a 3.0L Turbo V6, and the CLS63 AMG with a 5.5L Turbo V8. All engine options are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

4.7L Twin Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location of the leak and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbochargers can experience failures leading to reduced engine power, whistling noises, and potentially check engine lights.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ for replacement, including parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears. Can also experience slipping.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for fluid flush/filter. $1,500 - $3,500+ for valve body work.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension can experience issues, including air leaks in the struts or lines, compressor failure, and ride height problems. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, warning lights, and a harsh ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking struts, repairing or replacing the compressor, or addressing leaks in the air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur, leading to difficulty starting the car or a completely dead battery. Can be caused by a variety of components not shutting down properly or a faulty battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the parasitic draw, replacing the battery.
  • 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 can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ for software updates or replacement of the unit.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, not open or close properly, or leak.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS550, while luxurious and stylish, can present some potential issues for owners. The most significant concerns are related to the engine (oil leaks, turbocharger problems), transmission (rough shifting), suspension (airmatic issues), and electrical system (battery drain, COMAND issues). The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely. Air suspension repairs and turbocharger replacements can be costly, while other issues like oil leaks or rough shifting may be more manageable depending on the underlying cause. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in potential maintenance costs when considering purchasing a 2016 CLS550.