The Mercedes-Benz CLS500, a stylish four-door coupe, offered a blend of luxury, performance, and distinctive design. Choosing the right model year is crucial to ensure a positive ownership experience, avoiding potential pitfalls associated with certain production periods. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the CLS500's model years, highlighting the best options and those to consider with caution.
Mercedes-Benz CLS500 Model Year Overview: Key Considerations
| Model Year | Notable Features/Improvements | Potential Issues/Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | First year of CLS500 production, iconic styling, powerful V8 engine. | Potential for early model gremlins, higher risk of air suspension issues, COMAND system limitations. |
| 2007 | Minor interior updates, improved reliability compared to 2006. | Air suspension issues persist, potential for electronic glitches. |
| 2008 | Revised COMAND system, updated interior trim, improved engine management. | Air suspension issues still present, potential for oil leaks. |
| 2009 | Last year of the W219 CLS500, most refined and reliable of the generation. | Fewer issues reported compared to earlier years, but maintenance is still crucial. |
| 2011 (CLS550, successor) | Introduction of the W218 chassis, twin-turbo V8 engine (CLS550). Significantly updated styling and technology. | Early W218 models can have issues with the air suspension. |
| 2012 (CLS550) | Minor refinements to the W218 chassis. | Potential for oil consumption issues in the V8 engine. |
| 2013 (CLS550) | Updated styling, improved fuel economy. | Potential for turbocharger issues at higher mileage. |
| 2014 (CLS550) | Increased horsepower, further refinements. | Relatively reliable, but preventative maintenance is still key. |
| 2015 (CLS550) | Continued improvements in technology and performance. | Few reported issues, but thorough pre-purchase inspection is still recommended. |
| 2016 (CLS550) | Last year of the CLS550 with the V8 engine. | Generally reliable, considered a good year to purchase. |
| 2017 (CLS550e, successor) | Introduction of the CLS550e plug-in hybrid. | Complex hybrid system can be expensive to repair. |
| 2018 (CLS450, successor) | Introduction of the CLS450 with a turbocharged inline-6 engine and mild-hybrid system. | Potential for issues with the mild-hybrid system in early models. |
Detailed Explanations
2006: As the inaugural year for the CLS500, the 2006 model introduced its distinctive coupe-like sedan design. While stylish and powerful, first-year models often have more teething problems than later versions. Potential issues include early electronic glitches and a higher risk of air suspension failures. The COMAND system is also less advanced compared to later iterations.
2007: The 2007 CLS500 saw minor interior tweaks and some improvements in reliability compared to the 2006 model. However, air suspension problems remained a concern. Pay close attention to the condition of the air struts and compressor during a pre-purchase inspection. Electronic gremlins, while less frequent, are still a possibility.
2008: The 2008 model year brought a revised COMAND system with improved functionality, along with updated interior trim. Engine management was also refined, leading to better performance and fuel economy. Despite these advancements, the air suspension system continued to be a potential weak point. Oil leaks, particularly around the valve covers and oil cooler, are another area to inspect carefully.
2009: The final year of the W219 CLS500 is generally considered the most refined and reliable. Mercedes-Benz addressed many of the issues that plagued earlier models. While maintenance is still crucial, the 2009 CLS500 offers the best balance of style, performance, and reliability within the first-generation CLS500 lineup. Look for well-maintained examples with complete service records.
2011 (CLS550, successor): The 2011 model marked a significant redesign with the introduction of the W218 chassis and the CLS550, powered by a twin-turbo V8 engine. The styling was more aggressive, and the technology was considerably updated. Early W218 models, however, can still experience issues with the air suspension system.
2012 (CLS550): The 2012 CLS550 featured minor refinements to the W218 chassis. Potential owners should be aware of the possibility of oil consumption issues in the V8 engine. Regular monitoring of oil levels is recommended.
2013 (CLS550): The 2013 CLS550 received updated styling and improved fuel economy. While generally reliable, potential owners should be aware of the possibility of turbocharger issues at higher mileage. Look for signs of turbocharger wear or failure during a pre-purchase inspection.
2014 (CLS550): The 2014 CLS550 saw an increase in horsepower and further refinements. It is considered a relatively reliable year, but preventative maintenance is still key to long-term reliability.
2015 (CLS550): The 2015 CLS550 continued the trend of improvements in technology and performance. Few issues have been reported, but a thorough pre-purchase inspection is still recommended to ensure the car is in good condition.
2016 (CLS550): As the last year of the CLS550 with the V8 engine, the 2016 model is generally reliable and considered a good year to purchase. Its combination of power, luxury, and relatively low potential for major issues makes it a desirable option.
2017 (CLS550e, successor): The 2017 model introduced the CLS550e plug-in hybrid. While offering improved fuel efficiency, the complex hybrid system can be expensive to repair. Potential buyers should factor in the potential cost of hybrid system maintenance when considering this model.
2018 (CLS450, successor): The 2018 model introduced the CLS450 with a turbocharged inline-6 engine and a mild-hybrid system. Early models may have issues with the mild-hybrid system. Researching common problems and checking for related recalls or service bulletins is advisable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which CLS500 year is the most reliable? The 2009 model year is generally considered the most reliable of the W219 CLS500 generation due to refinements made throughout its production run.
Are air suspension problems common in CLS500 models? Yes, air suspension issues are a known weakness, especially in earlier model years (2006-2008). Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial.
What should I look for during a pre-purchase inspection? Pay close attention to the air suspension system, check for oil leaks, and ensure all electronic systems are functioning correctly. A comprehensive inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.
Is the COMAND system easy to use in older CLS500 models? The COMAND system in older models (2006-2008) is less intuitive and has fewer features compared to later versions.
Is the CLS550 more reliable than the CLS500?
The reliability of the CLS550 (W218 generation) depends on the specific year, but generally, later model years (2014-2016) are considered quite reliable.
What is the difference between CLS500 and CLS550?
The CLS500 refers to models produced from 2006-2009 (W219 chassis), while the CLS550 refers to models produced from 2011-2016 (W218 chassis). The CLS550 features a more powerful twin-turbo V8 engine.
Are CLS550 models expensive to maintain?
Yes, CLS550 models can be expensive to maintain due to their complex engine and air suspension systems. Budget accordingly for regular maintenance and potential repairs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Mercedes-Benz CLS500 or its successor, the CLS550, requires careful consideration of the model year and its associated potential issues. While the 2009 CLS500 stands out as a particularly strong choice within the first generation, later CLS550 models also offer a compelling blend of performance and reliability, provided they are well-maintained and thoroughly inspected before purchase. Always prioritize a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to ensure a rewarding ownership experience.