🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

CL-Class

Trim:

CL63 AMG

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

C216

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class CL63 AMG represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's luxury coupe offerings, targeting high-net-worth individuals seeking a blend of opulent comfort, cutting-edge technology, and exhilarating performance. It competed against other flagship luxury coupes such as the BMW 7 Series Coupe (e.g., 6 Series equivalent), Bentley Continental GT, and Aston Martin DB9.

Competitive Analysis:

The CL63 AMG stood out with its powerful handcrafted AMG V8 engine, sophisticated ABC (Active Body Control) suspension, and a wealth of advanced comfort and safety features, often exceeding those found in competitors at the time. Its focus was on a grand touring experience with formidable acceleration.

Key Features:

Handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 Biturbo engine, AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed transmission, Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, COMAND infotainment system, advanced driver assistance systems (e.g., Distronic Plus, Lane Keeping Assist), premium leather interior, expansive cabin, high-quality materials.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Introduction, Driver and Passenger Safety, Instruments and Controls, Comfort and Convenience Features, Operation Tips, Appearance Care, Taking Care of the Unexpected, Technical Information, Warranty and Customer Relations, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications.

Page Count:

Estimated 300-500 pages (typical for comprehensive owner's manuals of this era and class)

Format:

Digital PDF

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Complementary Manuals Availability:

Suggests other manuals are available; this specific manual is an Owner's Manual, not a comprehensive service or repair manual, which are often separate publications.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, Climate Control, Infotainment, Lighting, Security, Safety Restraints, Powertrain Management, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Body Controls, Chassis Systems, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

Procedures Included:

Normal operation, basic maintenance checks (oil, coolant, tires), fluid types and capacities, warning lights and indicators, troubleshooting common minor issues, use of comfort and convenience features, basic safety procedures, infotainment system operation, climate control functions, lighting controls, lock and security system operation, seat adjustment and restraint system usage, driving tips, cleaning and care recommendations.

Technical Depth:

Covers essential owner-level information for daily use and basic upkeep. Detailed diagnostic or repair procedures for advanced troubleshooting or component replacement are typically found in separate workshop or service manuals, though it provides technical specifications relevant to owners.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing. "Identical to the Original Factory Manuals."

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement:

5.5 Liters (5,461 cc)

Engine Configuration:

V8

Engine Aspiration:

Twin-Turbocharged (Biturbo)

Horsepower:

536 hp @ 5,250–5,750 rpm

Torque:

590 lb-ft @ 2,000–4,500 rpm

Fuel System:

Direct Injection

Engine Code:

M157

Bore X Stroke:

98.0 mm x 90.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology)

Number Of Gears:

7-speed

Transmission Features:

Wet clutch for starting off, multiple manual modes (Sport, Manual), Race Start function.

Drive Wheels:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 (or equivalent specification as per manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

196.4 inches (4,988 mm)

Width:

73.7 inches (1,872 mm)

Height:

55.0 inches (1,397 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.7 inches (2,964 mm)

Front Track:

62.8 inches (1,596 mm)

Rear Track:

62.7 inches (1,593 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4,586 lbs (2,079 kg)

Trunk Capacity:

16.4 cu ft (465 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not specifically rated as a standalone model in typical public databases; relies on Mercedes-Benz's internal safety engineering standards.

Active Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), PRE-SAFE® anticipatory safety system, Adaptive Cruise Control (optional/standard depending on package), Lane Keeping Assist (optional), Blind Spot Assist (optional), Active Suspension (ABC).

Active Safety Systems:

Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system enhances dynamic stability and ride comfort.

Passive Features:

Front airbags, front side airbags, front and rear head airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND NTG 4.5 infotainment system

Infotainment Features:

7-inch color display, AM/FM radio, CD/DVD player, HDD navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/SD card interface, voice control.

Audio System:

Harman Kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound system (standard on CL63 AMG).

Driver Assistance Systems:

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

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Comfort Features:

Heated and ventilated multi-contour front seats, massage function for front seats, automatic climate control (THERMOTRONIC), ambient lighting, panoramic sunroof (optional), keyless-go, power trunk closer.

Lighting Technology:

Bi-xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, LED daytime running lights.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Interval Oil Change:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (dependent on driving conditions and specific Mercedes-Benz recommendations for the M157 engine).

Service Interval Major Maintenance:

Major service intervals (e.g., spark plugs, transmission service) typically occur around 30,000 - 60,000 miles, detailed within the manual and based on the 'Service A', 'Service B' schedule.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic engine oil meeting MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51 specifications (e.g., Mobil 1, Castrol Edge 5W-40 or 0W-40).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz approved antifreeze/coolant concentrate (e.g., MB 325.0) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus or a specification meeting MB-Approval 331.0.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Hydraulic fluid meeting MB-Approval 343.0 (or similar specified fluid).

Differential Fluid Type:

Hypoid gear oil meeting MB-Approval 235.7 or 235.15 (for limited-slip differential if equipped).

Known Issues:

While robust, potential issues for this generation include ABC suspension hydraulic leaks or pump failures, ECU issues, coil pack failures, and catalytic converter degradation over time. Regular maintenance as outlined in the manual is crucial for longevity.

Air Filter Part Number:

Commonly A2780940004 (for M157 engine, always verify with VIN)

Oil Filter Part Number:

Commonly 2781800009 (for M157 engine, always verify with VIN)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz boasts a long and rich history in automotive engineering and luxury, dating back to the invention of the automobile itself by Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler. The brand is synonymous with innovation, quality, safety, and performance.

Model Evolution:

The CL-Class evolved from earlier S-Class coupes, representing a distinct luxury coupe flagship. The C216 generation (2007-2014) saw continuous refinement, with the CL63 AMG being the high-performance variant. For 2012, the CL63 AMG received the new M157 5.5L twin-turbo V8, significantly improving power and efficiency over its predecessor.

Key Evolutionary Change 2012:

Introduction of the M157 5.5L biturbo V8 engine, replacing the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 (M156) in the CL63 AMG, offering more torque and better fuel efficiency.

Production Location:

Germany

Production Years C216:

2007-2014

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognized Awards:

While specific awards for the 2012 CL63 AMG might vary, the CL-Class and AMG models generally receive acclaim for performance, luxury, and engineering from automotive publications such as MotorTrend, Car and Driver, and various European motoring journals. Often cited for its powerful engine and sophisticated chassis.