2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS: common problems and reliability
One of the worst CLS years.
One of the Mercedes-Benz CLS years to avoid. All CLS years
24 owner complaints, most about fuel/propulsion system. No recalls.
Should I buy a 2012 CLS?The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has 24 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are fuel/propulsion system and engine.
Safety record for the 2012 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other CLS years only. How we score it
Is 2012 a good year for the CLS?
Across the 16 CLS model years we track, complaint volume runs from 1 (2021) to 111 (2006). With 24 complaints, the 2012 CLS sits above the model's median of 7.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain.
Owner insights cover all generations of the CLS. See the full CLS owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used CLS listings typically run $16,575–$35,372 across 2007 to 2023 model years.
Other CLS model years
Compare every CLS year side by side to see how 2012 ranks against the rest.
Compare the CLS against its rivals
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