The 2013 Mercedes Cls550 remains a sought-after vehicle, blending luxury, performance, and distinctive styling. However, like any sophisticated machine, especially one with some mileage, potential owners and current drivers need to be aware of the realities of maintenance and repair. One owner’s recent experience provides valuable insight into what you might expect when owning a 2013 Mercedes CLS550 with over 100,000 miles on the clock.
Recently, a 2013 CLS550 owner faced an issue with their airmatic suspension system. The culprit was a leak in the airmatic valve unit, a common area of concern in vehicles equipped with air suspension. The repair cost for this specific issue amounted to $776. While this is a significant expense, it’s crucial to consider it within the broader context of owning a luxury vehicle known for its advanced technology and performance.
This particular CLS550, a rear-wheel-drive model, had clocked 127,000 miles at the time of the airmatic repair. Purchased with 97,000 miles, the owner shared a list of maintenance and repairs undertaken during their ownership, offering a realistic picture for prospective buyers of similar high-mileage vehicles. Beyond the airmatic system, the owner had also addressed several other maintenance items:
- Serpentine Belt Replacement: A standard maintenance item on most vehicles, the serpentine belt ensures various engine components are driven correctly.
- Coolant Tank Replacement: Plastic coolant tanks can become brittle and crack over time, necessitating replacement to prevent engine overheating.
- Tire Replacements: As expected with any vehicle, tire replacement is a recurring cost, and the owner humorously noted “tires tires tires lol,” suggesting this was a frequent expense, likely due to performance driving or simply the wear and tear of daily use.
- Brake Service: The front brakes had been replaced multiple times, requiring rotors and pads on the front axle for the third time. The rear brakes, in contrast, had only been replaced once and were still in good condition, indicating a possible difference in wear patterns or driving style.
- COMAND System Issue: A significant and potentially expensive problem arose with the COMAND system, the central infotainment and control unit of the Mercedes. Finding a compatible replacement unit and a technician willing to reprogram it to match the vehicle’s VIN proved challenging. Fortunately, the owner managed to source a used unit and have it installed and reprogrammed for $675, a cost that could have been much higher if a new unit was required or if reprogramming proved impossible.
The airmatic issue was highlighted as the first problem encountered with the suspension system, while the other mentioned repairs are generally considered within the realm of expected maintenance for a vehicle of this age and mileage. The owner also mentioned routine services, further emphasizing the ongoing costs associated with vehicle ownership.
Reflecting on their experience, the owner expressed a nuanced perspective. While satisfied with the “capabilities, the style, the comfort, the performance” of the CLS550, they admitted that in hindsight, purchasing a car with such high mileage might not have been the most prudent decision. They suggested that opting for a CLS550 with mileage in the 50,000 to 75,000 range, or even considering a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle, might be a better approach to mitigate potential maintenance costs down the line.
Interestingly, the owner also mentioned performance modifications they had made, including catless downpipes, a tune, ASV (presumably air suspension valve controller), and new charge pipes. These modifications, while enhancing performance, are typically done outside of warranty coverage and are a separate aspect of ownership beyond basic maintenance. The owner’s enthusiasm for future upgrades, mentioning interest in M278 or M157 powered vehicles, suggests a passion for performance despite the maintenance realities.
In conclusion, this owner’s experience with their 2013 Mercedes CLS550 provides a balanced perspective on the ownership experience. It highlights the potential for both enjoyment and unexpected maintenance costs, particularly as mileage accumulates. For those considering a pre-owned 2013 Mercedes CLS550, especially one with higher mileage, this account serves as a valuable reminder to factor in potential maintenance expenses and consider the benefits of lower mileage or CPO options for greater peace of mind.
