Recalls: Mercedes-Benz C216 CL-Class
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Mercedes-Benz C216 CL-Class
- In June 2008, a recall was issued for Mercedes-Benz C216 CL-Class vehicles manufactured between October and December 2007 due to the unreliable operation of the driver’s side signal acquisition module (SAM) resulting from the ingress or moisture. In isolated cases, this could lead to electrical malfunctions affecting items such as the front illumination equipment and turn signals, windscreen wipers, steering column adjustment and illumination of the centre console (PRA 2008/10087).
- In September 2008, a recall was issued for Mercedes-Benz C216 CL-Class vehicles with the Active Body Control (ABC) suspension due to a fault with the front axle body acceleration sensors. Due to an incomplete soldering process during manufacture, certain electrical connection on the circuit boards of the ABC sensors could trigger random sprung mass vibrations at the front axle of the vehicle. This could influence driving stability, operational safety and, in some cases, display a warning message in the instrument cluster (PRA 2008/10321).
Problems and faults: Mercedes-Benz C216 CL-Class
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
2013 model year Mercedes-Benz C216 CL 500: oil supply to cylinder head
In February 2013, Service Campaign Bulletin No. 2013010001 was issued for 2013 model year Mercedes-Benz C216 CL 500 vehicles that had 4.7-litre biturbo M278 V8 engines. During installation at the factory, the check valve of the left and right secondary chain tensioners may have been pressed too deep into the cylinder heads and this could compromise oil supply into the cylinder head. As part of this service campaign, the check valve of the left and right secondary chain tensioners was to be removed.
Mercedes-Benz C216 CL 500: engine rattle noise after start-up
In December 2015, Mercedes-Benz issued Service Bulletin LI05.10-P-056435 Version 10 for Mercedes-Benz C216 CL 500 Coupes that had M278 engines with engine numbers up to 2789xx 30 191843.
According to the Service Bulletin, the driver may hear a rattling noise after start-up – from the engine compartment – that lasts for several seconds. This noise was attributed to a lack of oil pressure in the secondary chain tensioners, though Mercedes-Benz claimed that no consequential damage was to be expected.
To fix, the secondary chain tensioners (left and right) were to be replaced and a check valve was to be installed in the oil supply bore of each secondary chain tensioner in the cylinder head (left and right).
Mercedes-Benz C216 CL-Class: other problems and faults
- The air conditioning may only work intermittently due to a faulty fan/blower.
- For models with Active Body Control (ABC), a chirping noise from under the bonnet may be due to a defective pump for the ABC system.
- The multi-contour seat cushions could inflate or deflate independently of the driver due to a faulty electronic module.
