2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS500

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS500 represents the third generation of the CLS-Class, a vehicle lauded for its sleek, coupe-like design combined with the practicality of a four-door sedan. The CLS500 is powered by a 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2018 CLS-Class include the CLS400 with a 3.0L V6, and the AMG CLS63 S with a more powerful V8. All engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the CLS500 for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling. Common complaints include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, complex electronics, and potential issues with the air suspension.

Engine

4.7L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points on the engine, most commonly around the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the source and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbochargers can experience issues such as bearing failure or wastegate malfunction. Symptoms include a loss of power, whistling noises from the engine, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ depending on if one or both need replacing.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-Tronic 9-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 9G-Tronic transmission can sometimes exhibit rough or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears.
  • Solution: A software update, transmission fluid flush, or in some cases, valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hesitation or Delay in Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported hesitation or delay when shifting, particularly when accelerating from a stop or during passing maneuvers. This can be caused by issues with the transmission’s valve body or sensors.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve body or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension (AIRMATIC) system can experience issues such as air leaks in the struts or lines, compressor failure, or control module malfunction. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking struts, lines, compressor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors throughout the vehicle, such as those related to the parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, can fail.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights can malfunction, causing them to not adjust properly or display error messages.
  • Solution: Recalibration or replacement of the headlight unit or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof can experience issues such as failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS500, while offering a luxurious experience and powerful engine, can be prone to several issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems can be expensive to repair. The 9-speed transmission may experience rough shifting and hesitation. The air suspension, if equipped, is a known source of potential problems. Electrical issues with the COMAND system and various sensors can also arise. Overall, the cost of maintaining and repairing a CLS500 can be high.