🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

CL550

Year:

2010

Chassis Code:

C216

Engine Code:

M273.968

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL550 represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's luxury coupe offerings, competing directly with high-end grand tourers from brands like BMW (7 Series Coupe), Bentley, and Aston Martin. It prioritized comfort, advanced technology, and powerful performance for discerning clientele.

Competitive Analysis:

The CL550 (C216) was positioned as a sophisticated and technologically advanced alternative to more overtly sporty coupes. Its strengths lay in its serene ride quality, opulent interior, extensive standard features, and powerful, smooth V8 engine, appealing to buyers who valued comfort and technology over raw track performance.

Key Features:

Powerful V8 engine, advanced AIRMATIC air suspension, sophisticated COMAND infotainment system, optional driver assistance packages, luxurious interior appointments, frameless door glass, and extensive use of premium materials.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance for the 2010 Mercedes-Benz CL550 (C216 chassis).

Page Count:

Digital Software (Not applicable to traditional page count; highly comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Official Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download/Online Access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Covered Systems:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes (ABS, ESP, SBC), chassis, body, interior, HVAC, electrical systems, infotainment, airbags, security systems, ADAPTIVE BRAKE with Hill Start Assist, AIRMATIC (Adaptive Damping System), COMMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation system).

Included Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, diagnosis and troubleshooting of all major systems, engine repair (including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing components), transmission overhaul and servicing, brake system bleeding and repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component testing and replacement, body panel repair and alignment, interior trim removal and installation, HVAC system servicing, infotainment system configuration and troubleshooting, airbag system safety procedures, ADAPTIVE BRAKE system calibration, AIRMATIC system troubleshooting and repair.

Technical Depth:

Expert-level detail, including step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic flowcharts, torque specifications, electrical schematics, component locations, special tool requirements, and factory-recommended procedures for both routine maintenance and complex repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software requiring specific installation or online access; likely PDF-based for printable sections.

Print Quality:

High-resolution diagrams, clear text, and printable pages when accessed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Engine Code:

M273.968

Displacement:

5.5 Liters (5461 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

98.0 mm x 90.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.7:1

Horsepower:

382 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controlled.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with coil-on-plug.

ECU Type:

ME 9.7

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7G-TRONIC PLUS Automatic

Gear Ratios:

1st: 4.375, 2nd: 2.857, 3rd: 1.925, 4th: 1.372, 5th: 1.000, 6th: 0.821, 7th: 0.728, Reverse: 3.416

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Specification 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF134)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 9.5 Liters (dry fill)

Drive Modes:

Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

196.4 inches (4988 mm)

Width:

73.3 inches (1862 mm)

Height:

54.3 inches (1380 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.7 inches (2964 mm)

Front Track:

62.5 inches (1588 mm)

Rear Track:

62.6 inches (1591 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4288 lbs (1945 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 5401 lbs (2450 kg)

Trunk Volume:

16.0 cubic feet (453 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

5-Star (estimated based on platform)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Likely awarded Top Safety Pick for its model year due to extensive safety features and structural integrity.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), ADAPTIVE BRAKE with Hill Start Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Bi-Xenon Headlights with Adaptive Forward Lighting, LED Daytime Running Lights.

Passive Safety Features:

Dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), front and rear head airbags, active front head restraints, seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell.

Driver Assistance Options:

DISTRONIC PLUS (Adaptive Cruise Control), PARKTRONIC (Parking Assist), LANE KEEPING ASSIST, BLIND SPOT ASSIST, NIGHT VIEW ASSIST.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Entertainment) system with a 7-inch LCD display.

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM/CD/DVD player, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, auxiliary audio input, HDD for music storage, SD card slot, voice control.

Driver Assistance Suite:

Optional packages included DISTRONIC PLUS, LANE KEEPING ASSIST, BLIND SPOT ASSIST, and PARKTRONIC.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Convenience Features:

Keyless-Go, power closing doors, power trunk closer, heated and ventilated front seats, multi-contour front seats with massage function, ambient interior lighting, panoramic sunroof (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Flexible Service System (ASSYST PLUS) indicates intervals typically around 10,000 - 15,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions.

Major Service Intervals:

Service B (around 20,000 - 30,000 miles) typically includes brake fluid change, cabin filter replacement, and comprehensive inspection. Major engine/transmission services are at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 60,000 - 100,000 miles).

Engine Oil Type:

MB Specification 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic)

Engine Oil Capacity:

8.5 Liters (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

MB Specification 325.0 (Blue Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 PLUS (MB Specification 331.0)

Common Issues Engine:

Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil cooler seals, occasional ignition coil failure, potential for camshaft adjuster solenoid issues (less common on M273 than earlier M272). Intake manifold flap runner issues can occur on the earlier M272, but M273 is generally more robust.

Common Issues Transmission:

Mechatronics unit issues (requiring specialized diagnostics/repair), torque converter seal leaks, and occasional solenoid malfunctions in the 7G-TRONIC gearbox.

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

AIRMATIC system issues (leaks from air springs/struts, compressor failure, valve block leaks), ABC suspension issues (if equipped with active body control, though less common on CL550), and potential leaks from power steering hoses.

Common Issues Electrical:

Issues with door control modules, trunk closing mechanism, COMAND system glitches, and battery drain due to parasitic draws from various modules.

Common Issues Brakes:

SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) system issues on earlier models (C215) were a significant concern. The C216 uses a more conventional ADAPTIVE BRAKE system with conventional hydraulic boosters, making brake system issues less critical but still requiring proper maintenance. Wear on brake pads and rotors is typical.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz boasts a rich history of automotive innovation and luxury, dating back to the invention of the automobile itself in the late 19th century. Known for engineering excellence, safety, and comfort, Mercedes-Benz has consistently produced iconic vehicles.

Model Evolution Cl Class:

The CL-Class has a lineage tracing back to the S-Class Coupe models. The C216 generation (2006-2014) succeeded the C215 CL-Class and was based on the W221 S-Class platform, continuing the tradition of a large, technologically advanced, and luxurious two-door coupe.

Production Years:

2006-2014 (C216 generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific awards for the 2010 CL550 might be sparse, the CL-Class consistently received praise for its luxury, technology, and performance from automotive publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Edmunds, often appearing on 'best luxury car' lists.

Reliability Ratings:

Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era generally offered good reliability, but often required more diligent maintenance than some competitors. Owners' forums and J.D. Power ratings would provide more specific data, but the complexity of the systems can lead to higher repair costs if not properly maintained.