Photo: Calreyn88 / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (250 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2014
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment is highly conditional, centered on the significant and well-documented maintenance costs associated with the complex Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic suspension system.
5 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentActive Body Control (ABC) hydraulic suspension failures
Includes leaking struts, failing accumulators (spheres), valve block issues, and pump failures. Very expensive to repair, with full system replacement sometimes required.
- Very frequentHigh general maintenance and repair costs
Attributed to the car's complex technology and luxury status. Electronics, plastic engine bay components, and other wear items are costly.
- RecurrentEngine-specific concerns (varies by model year and engine)
For 2007+ models (C216 generation, M273 V8), balance shaft sprocket/chain wear leading to potential engine failure is noted as a major issue. For the twin-turbo V12 (M275) and later V8s (M157), cylinder wall scoring and other turbo-related defects are mentioned as known risks.
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentDynamic multi-contour seat failures
Optional seats are very expensive to repair when their numerous adjustments fail.
- IsolatedRust
Mentioned as a concern for vehicles in certain climates, particularly underneath the car and around the rear axle.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to designate a single "best" version. Discussions indicate a trade-off: earlier models (pre-2003) are noted to have first-generation ABC components with known issues, while later facelift models (2003+) may have addressed some of these problems. The potent AMG variants (CL55, CL65) are desired for performance but inherit all the standard model's complexity. Engine choice (M113 V8 vs. M275 V12) involves a reliability-versus-complexity calculation, with the V8 generally viewed as the more robust option.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the BMW 8 Series (E31), Jaguar XK, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Bentley Continental and BMW M6.
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Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment is highly conditional, centered on the significant and well-documented maintenance costs associated with the complex Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic suspension system. The vehicle is universally praised for its timeless design, luxurious feel, and potent V8/V12 engines, offering an exceptional driving experience when fully functional. However, the consensus is that ownership is a high-risk, high-reward proposition, suitable only for those with substantial maintenance budgets and access to specialized independent mechanics. Satisfaction is directly tied to proactive maintenance and purchasing a well-documented, pre-repaired example. Without these conditions, the CL is widely regarded as a potential financial pitfall.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a heavyweight, technology-laden luxury coupe offering superior comfort and presence compared to more sporting rivals. It is acknowledged as providing immense value for money on the used market, with purchase prices often a small fraction of the original MSRP. However, it is consistently noted as being more complex and costly to maintain than competitors like the BMW 8 Series or Jaguar XK. Compared to a contemporary Mercedes-Benz SL, the CL is seen as sharing similar suspension complexities but offering a more formal, coupe-oriented experience.
Recommended configurations
A thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a specialist familiar with the model is considered non-negotiable. Purchasing from an owner with extensive maintenance records is strongly advised. Some owners suggest budgeting approximately $10,000 USD immediately after purchase to address deferred maintenance, particularly on the ABC system. Converting the ABC suspension to conventional coilovers is mentioned as a cost-saving alternative for daily drivers, though it sacrifices the intended ride quality. Finding a specialist independent mechanic, rather than relying on a general dealership, is repeatedly emphasized.
General recommendations
Only recommended for experienced enthusiasts with a dedicated maintenance fund. Suitable for buyers seeking a dramatic, high-performance luxury coupe at a low acquisition cost who fully understand and can absorb the subsequent running costs. NOT recommended as a primary daily driver for those on a tight budget, for buyers unfamiliar with complex German engineering, or for anyone unable to perform their own diagnostics. Essential to verify the service history of the ABC system, including fluid and filter changes. Consider extended warranty coverage if available. Purchase price should be viewed as merely a down payment on future repairs.
Remarks
The provided data primarily covers the C215 generation (2000-2006), with some references to the subsequent C216 (2007-2014). The ABC suspension is the defining characteristic of the ownership experience, with its reliability and repair cost dominating all discussions. The recommendation to replace ABC fluid and its filter annually (at a cost under $300 USD) is presented as a critical preventative measure to extend system life. There is a strong emphasis on the model's depreciation, making it an accessible "exotic" experience, but the consensus is clear: low purchase price is inversely proportional to high running costs. Analysis based on approximately 15 substantive owner discussions focused on the CL model.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2003. Years to avoid: 2003Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Mercedes-Benz CL years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 1 | 0 | air bags |
| 2012 | 1 | 0 | steering |
| 2011 | 6 | 0 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2010 | 2 | 0 | air bags |
| 2009 | 2 | 0 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2008 | 10 | 0 | seat belts |
| 2007 | 9 | 0 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2006 | 9 | 0 | air bags |
| 2005 | 5 | 0 | suspension |
| 2004 | 7 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2003 | 20 | 0 | seats |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: C216
AMG CL 65 V12 AMG
6.0L 12-cylinder · 630 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2010–2013