2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450
2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450
Overview
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 is a luxury four-door coupe that blends performance with sophisticated design. It is generally considered a reliable vehicle, benefiting from Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess. The CLS450 typically comes equipped with a potent turbocharged inline-six engine paired with a smooth automatic transmission, offering a refined driving experience. While most owners report a positive ownership experience, like any complex luxury vehicle, there are specific areas where potential issues have been noted, primarily related to its advanced technology and integrated systems. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance.
Engine
3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (M256)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
9G-TRONIC Automatic
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Air Body Control (Optional)
Air Suspension Leaks
- Symptoms: Vehicle may sag on one corner, uneven ride height, warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Repair or replace leaking air springs, lines, or compressor.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Standard Coil Spring Suspension
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
MBUX Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, occasional system reboots, connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or component replacement if necessary.
- Cost: $100 - $800
12V Battery Drain
No major issues reported for this configuration.
Exterior
Body Panels & Paint
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
LED Lighting
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Upholstery & Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Climate Control System
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 demonstrates strong overall reliability, with its core powertrain components (engine and transmission) showing no significant widespread issues. The primary areas of concern tend to be related to the advanced technology integrated into the vehicle, such as potential glitches with the MBUX infotainment system and, for models equipped with the optional Air Body Control, the possibility of air suspension leaks. Standard suspension systems and exterior/interior components are generally robust. Proactive maintenance and addressing electrical system quirks promptly can ensure a consistently positive ownership experience for this luxury sedan.