2000-2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class
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2000-2006 Mercedes-Benz S-Class ▼
- Price Range: $11,300 - $75,100
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Our reliability study for this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class/CL-Class .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
S500 coupes suffer A/C failure when water damages the evaporator-temperature sensor. (2000-02)
Air conditioner:
The heating/air conditioning/ventilation system may malfunction and not direct air to the proper outlet or the defroster may remain on. (2000-01)
Brake wear:
After hard or extended braking, the car may vibrate because heat can distort the parking-brake drums allowing the parking brakes to make contact requiring new brake shoes and proper adjustment. (2000-02)
Dashboard lights:
The air-suspension warning light on the dash may come on because water gets into the electrical connecters and causes corrosion. (2000)
Rough idle:
Poor engine idle, vibration, and stalling may be caused by a defective mass-airflow (MAF) sensor.
Water leak:
The reed valve that drains water from the fresh-air intake gets clogged and must routinely be cleared to avoid water in the passenger compartment. (2000-02)
Windows:
During aftermarket window tinting, the soapy water can get into the door-control module and damage it. The module should be removed prior to tinting. (2000-01)
Windshield washer:
On a certain number of vehicles, the heated windshield washer hoses can overheat and melt. Although customers were being notified, check for work to have been done. (2000)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $655 |
| Alternator | $440 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,525 |
| Brakes | $790 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $0 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,405 |
| Exhaust System | $985 |
| Radiator | $610 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,840 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $400 |
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