Positioning:
Flagship luxury coupe representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering and comfort for its era. Competed with Bentley Continental GT, BMW 8 Series (e31), and high-end Jaguar models.
Competitors:
BMW 8 Series, Jaguar XK Series, Aston Martin DB7, Bentley Continental GT.
Features:
Powerful V8 (CL500/CL55) and V12 (CL600) engines, Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, spacious and opulent interior, advanced COMAND infotainment, Bi-Xenon headlights, advanced safety systems.
Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage for CL500 (W215.728), CL55 AMG (W215.774), and CL600 (W215.776) models.
Page Count:
Approximately 400-500 pages (estimated for a complete owner's manual for these models).
Type:
Owner's Manual / User Manual / Operator's Manual
Purpose:
To inform the owner about the safe and proper operation, maintenance, and features of their 2001 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class vehicle.
Systems:
Engine (M113 E50, M113 E55 ML, M137 E60 LA), Transmission (5G-TRONIC Automatic), Suspension (ABC - Active Body Control), Brakes (ABS, ESP), Climate Control, Electrical System (including CAN bus), Infotainment (COMAND), Lighting, Security System, Interior Features, Exterior Features, Safety Systems.
Specific Systems Details:
Detailed explanations on operating the power-adjustable seats with memory, automatic climate control zones, electric sunroof, power-adjustable steering column, door locks, mirrors, and dashboard controls. Guidance on using the COMAND system for navigation and audio.
Procedures:
Operating the vehicle, instrument cluster explanations, basic maintenance checks (fluid levels, tire pressure), warning lights and messages, comfort features operation, locking and security, emergency procedures, refueling, basic troubleshooting guidance, driving assistance systems.
Driving Procedures:
Instructions for using the cruise control, activating the ESP/TCS, understanding the transmission's modes (C/S), and using the manual shift mode (TouchShift). Information on proper engine break-in procedures.
Depth:
Covers user-level operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed repair procedures, diagnostic codes, or full workshop manual content.
Cl500 Engine:
M113 E50 (5.0L V8 SOHC)
Cl55 Amg Engine:
M113 E55 ML (5.4L V8 SOHC Supercharged)
Cl600 Engine:
M137 E60 LA (6.0L V12 SOHC)
Cl500 Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Cl500 Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3100-4200 rpm
Cl55 Amg Horsepower:
394 hp @ 6100 rpm
Cl55 Amg Torque:
413 lb-ft @ 2500-4000 rpm (with intercooler)
Cl600 Horsepower:
362 hp @ 5500 rpm
Cl600 Torque:
391 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Induction System:
Naturally Aspirated (CL500, CL600), Supercharged with intercooler (CL55 AMG)
Transmission Type:
5G-TRONIC 5-speed automatic with TouchShift
Optional Transmissions:
None (standard across all CL-Class variants for 2001).
Transmission Features:
Adaptive shifting logic, comfort/sport modes, manual override (TouchShift).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB spec 236.10 (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Pentosin ATF 1)
NHTSA Ratings:
Not directly tested by NHTSA in the same way as modern vehicles; relied on internal Mercedes-Benz testing and European ECE standards. Generally considered very safe for its era.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Active Body Control (ABC).
Passive Safety:
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, head curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on market), advanced crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with CD-based navigation, radio, cassette, and optional CD changer. Features include climate control integration and vehicle settings.
Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Parking Assist (optional), Rain-sensing wipers, Automatic climate control.
Connectivity Options:
Limited to analog telephone preparation (optional). No Bluetooth or USB connectivity in this generation. Keyless-Go system was an option.
Lighting Features:
Bi-Xenon Headlights with automatic leveling and cleaning system, integrated fog lamps, cornering illumination function (on some models).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used; consult specific service booklet).
Major Service Interval:
Around 30,000 miles for coolant flush, brake fluid, spark plugs (for V8/V12), transmission service. However, specific intervals vary greatly; always refer to the vehicle's service schedule.
Engine Oil Type:
MB spec 229.3 or 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-30)
Engine Oil Capacity Cl500:
Approx. 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts)
Engine Oil Capacity Cl600:
Approx. 9.5 liters (10.0 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
MB spec 325.0 (Glysantin G05 or similar HOAT coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB spec 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB spec 229.5 (Pentosin CHF 11S or similar synthetic power steering fluid)
Common Problems:
ABC suspension hydraulic leaks (struts, pumps, hoses), coil spring conversion due to ABC failure, EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) failure, catalytic converter issues (especially on V12), window regulator failures, SBC hydraulic unit issues (on later models, but some early issues possible), sensor failures (ABS, ESP), oil leaks (valve covers, oil cooler).
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and rotors, tires, serpentine belt, spark plugs (at interval), air filters, cabin air filters, and potentially the ABC hydraulic fluid and filter replacements.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz has a long history of automotive innovation, luxury, safety, and performance, establishing a benchmark for premium vehicles.
Cl Class Lineage:
Evolved from the S-Class coupe lineage. The C215 CL-Class (1998-2006) replaced the C140 coupe and introduced significant technological advancements like ABC and COMAND.
Production Period:
2001 model year for the C215 generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
Industry Awards:
While specific awards for the 2001 model year are less prominent in public records, the CL-Class consistently received accolades for its luxury, comfort, and advanced technology from automotive publications during its production run. Often praised for its ride quality and cabin refinement.
Consumer Ratings:
Praised for comfort, performance (especially AMG and V12 models), and build quality. Common criticisms often center on the high cost of maintenance and potential for expensive repairs related to complex systems like ABC.
