🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

CL-Class

Generation Code:

C215

Chassis Code:

C215

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Luxury Coupe

Target Audience:

Owners of Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (C215) seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, automotive enthusiasts, independent repair shops.

Competitors:

BMW 8 Series (E31 - earlier), Lexus SC (Z30 - earlier), Aston Martin DB7, Bentley Continental GT (later competitor)

Value Proposition:

Enables significant cost savings on servicing and repairs by empowering owners to perform work themselves.

Ease Of Use:

Designed for user-friendliness with easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions and visual aids.

Accessibility:

Instant digital delivery and cross-platform compatibility make it readily accessible.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

Models Covered:

All CL-Class models, engines, trims, and transmissions

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (specific number not provided, described as 'complete' and 'A-Z')

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition, emission control, engine diagnostics, engine performance tuning

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 5G-TRONIC 722.6), transmission control module (TCM), torque converter, internal components, fluid service, troubleshooting, repair

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, axles, differentials, wheel bearings, propeller shaft

Suspension:

Active Body Control (ABC), hydraulic system, struts, shocks, control arms, springs, sway bars, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, power steering fluid

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake discs, pads, calipers, lines, brake fluid specifications, parking brake

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power windows, power seats, sunroof

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, upholstery, climate control system (HVAC), seat adjustment, airbags, seatbelts

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), A/C system components, refrigerant, blower motor, control panel, diagnostic procedures

Infotainment And Electronics:

Audio system, navigation system (COMAND), telephone integration, instrument cluster, sensors, control modules (ECUs), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, inspections, tire rotation

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation

Repair And Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing components such as brakes, suspension parts, engine components, transmission service, electrical components

Overhaul And Rebuild:

Instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances

Bodywork And Collision Repair:

Panel removal and installation, structural repair guidelines, painting information (may be limited)

Depth:

Comprehensive - covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete mechanical rebuilds.

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Includes step-by-step instructions with pictures and diagrams for most procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Compatible with all PC & MAC computers, tablets, and mobile phones.

Required Software:

Adobe Reader (free download if not already installed).

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing users to print specific pages, chapters, or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes Covered:

M113 (4.3L V8, 5.0L V8, 5.4L V8 Supercharged - AMG models)

Displacement Options:

4.3L (CL500), 5.0L (CL500), 5.4L V8 Supercharged (CL55 AMG)

Cl500 Horsepower:

Approx. 295-302 hp (depending on market and exact year)

Cl500 Torque:

Approx. 302-339 lb-ft (depending on market and exact year)

Cl55 Amg Horsepower:

Approx. 493 hp

Cl55 Amg Torque:

Approx. 516 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz specification coolant (e.g., G48 or similar ethylene glycol based)

Oil Type Recommendation:

Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent meeting MB-Approval 229.5 specification.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts) for V8 engines, subject to verification in manual.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic (722.6 5G-TRONIC)

Optional Transmissions:

N/A for this generation (5-speed automatic was standard across most models).

Transmission Features:

TouchShift (manual shifting capability), electronically controlled, adaptive shifting programs.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.10 specification (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1 or Mercedes-Benz Genuine ATF)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8-9 liters for a complete fluid change, subject to verification.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 5033 mm (198.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1871 mm (73.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1407 mm (55.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1900-2000 kg (4189-4409 lbs), varies by model and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

While specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for C215 are not readily available, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era were designed to high safety standards, incorporating advanced passive safety features.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control System (ASR).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side airbags, head airbags (window airbags), seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, typically with integrated navigation, CD player, radio, and cassette player.

Driver Assistance Features:

Distronic (Adaptive Cruise Control - optional), Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC - optional), rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights.

Connectivity Options:

Integrated telephone system (GSM or UHI interface for phone cradle), Harman Kardon premium sound system (optional).

Convenience Features:

Keyless-Go (optional), power adjustable seats with memory, multi-zone automatic climate control, bi-xenon headlights, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil meeting MB specifications.

Transmission Service Interval:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for fluid and filter change, depending on driving conditions and manufacturer recommendations.

Abc Fluid Service:

Crucial to follow specific service intervals for Active Body Control (ABC) fluid and filter changes, often around 30,000 miles, to prevent costly component failures.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 4 Plus) conforming to MB-Approval 331.0

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10 liters (10.6 US quarts)

Common Problems:

Active Body Control (ABC) system leaks and pump failures, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) issues on later models, early transmission control module failures, rust on body panels (especially wheel arches), window regulator issues, door lock actuator failures.

Preventative Maintenance:

Regular inspection and maintenance of the ABC system, timely replacement of engine and transmission fluids, and addressing minor rust spots promptly are key.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive technology.

Predecessor:

Mercedes-Benz SEC-Class (C140)

Successor:

Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (C216)

Production Years:

1999-2006

Manufacturing Plant:

Sindelfingen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

While specific annual awards for the C215 generation are not readily highlighted, the CL-Class has consistently been recognized for its luxury, comfort, and technological advancements within the automotive press.

Quality Ratings:

Mercedes-Benz vehicles generally perform well in initial quality surveys, though long-term ownership costs can be higher due to complexity and specialized maintenance requirements, which this manual aims to mitigate.