Mercedes CLS?

[aigel]

All,

I keep seeing these around and they are getting into the $20k dollars if they are in the 2007 range. I have to wonder if they are a nightmare to maintain or if they are reasonably reliable? Anyone own one? Is the AMG even worth a thought or is it all special parts and should one stay with a 500/550?

Not ready to buy, but older luxury cars have always had a spot in my heart. One day!

G

[enzo1]

[onewhippedpuppy]

I personally think they are stunners, especially the AMG versions. Too bad they only seat 4, I can't even consider one.

[slow&rusty]

They are based on the W211 E-Class but have less headroom in the rear and only seat four (if those two things are important).

I love these cars and actually I would not consider one unless it has the ///AMG on the right trunk lid.

About the worse thing on them is the Air Suspension struts will require replacement around 55k-70k mark and each strut is about $1300 (OEM genuine) but are easy to re and re.

The major issues I had with my car were:
1) the Dynamic seats ($3200)
2) The electric trunk motor and actuator ($2,600)
3) Lines across the Command unit - Entertainment and Nav unit ($1200)
All were replaced under warranty

Mechanically the car has been flawless.
Yasin

[Chocaholic]

Unfortunately, that's why MB's depreciate like a rock. As they age, the cost of even basic repairs (parts....and labor since many shops see MB's as an opportunity to gouge) can far exceed value. Yet I own an old one. Go figure.

[KevinTodd]

They always catch my eye--still very attractive and seem to be aging quite nicely.

[FastCarFan]

My brother-in-law recently bought a used (2008?) black one with an extended warranty. I haven't even seen it yet. He loves it...so far.

The styling is great. And they seem to look particularly good in black.

[Dan J]

Every time I see one I think it's a crackdealers car

[onewhippedpuppy]

Unfortunately, that's why MB's depreciate like a rock. As they age, the cost of even basic repairs (parts....and labor since many shops see MB's as an opportunity to gouge) can far exceed value. Yet I own an old one. Go figure.

You can make the same case for every expensive European import ever made. But good deals for the DIYers.

[aigel]

Originally Posted by slow&rusty

They are based on the W211 E-Class but have less headroom in the rear and only seat four (if those two things are important).

I love these cars and actually I would not consider one unless it has the ///AMG on the right trunk lid.

Yasin,

Thanks for your input!

The repairs you mention sound unfortunate for a new car, but may be less to do DIY (if you can diagnose them). I am glad to hear it is based on the E, not the S.

Can you elaborate why you would only consider the AMG?

G

[weseeeee]

I think they are a great looking car. I drove a MB for years then purchased a Lexus SC430. It's a nice car but I miss the MB ride. When I find the right CLS, I'll pull the trigger.

[slow&rusty]

Originally Posted by aigel

Yasin,

Thanks for your input!

The repairs you mention sound unfortunate for a new car, but may be less to do DIY (if you can diagnose them). I am glad to hear it is based on the E, not the S.

Can you elaborate why you would only consider the AMG?

G

The repairs sound bad, but in reality did not bother me when I listen to owners of comparable cars (M5s, Audi S8/S6, CTS-V), the repairs are on par

The AMG is an all around driver's package that has a fabulous engine combined with much superior brakes, more aggressive styling, a more tuned suspension and a nicer interior overall.

The CLS550 is very nice and does everything well, just the AMG takes it to the next level and does everything extremely well.
Yasin