Vehicle Segment:
Full-size luxury coupe/sedan (CLS is a 4-door coupe).
Brand Image:
Represents Mercedes-Benz's commitment to luxury, performance, and distinctive styling.
Direct Competitors:
BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, Audi A7 Sportback, Porsche Panamera (though CLS predates Panamera's segment entry in this form).
Styling:
Iconic 'four-door coupe' design language, flowing lines, pillarless door design (on some configurations).
Powertrain:
Emphasis on powerful V8 engines and refined driving dynamics.
Interior Appointments:
High-quality materials, advanced technology for its time, luxurious seating and cabin ambience.
Primary Coverage:
Owner's Manual
Included Sections:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, 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
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 350-450 pages (typical for Mercedes-Benz owner's manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel system, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system basics.
Chassis:
Braking system operation, steering system overview, suspension system basic information.
Electrical:
Lighting system controls, battery maintenance, basic electrical system warnings and indicators.
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control operation (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), power locks, windows, mirrors, seating adjustment, keyless-go system basics.
Infotainment:
Audio system operation, COMAND APS basics, navigation system overview, telephone integration.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system operation, seatbelt usage and pre-tensioners, child seat installation (ISOFIX/LATCH), tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), checking tire pressure, engine oil and filter replacement recommendations (general), air filter inspection/replacement guidance.
Operational Procedures:
Starting and stopping the engine, shifting gears, using cruise control, parking procedures, using vehicle lights and wipers.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Interpreting dashboard warning lights and messages, basic troubleshooting for common vehicle alerts.
Security Features:
Locking/unlocking doors, anti-theft alarm system operation, remote key fob usage.
Depth Level:
Owner-level understanding and operation, basic maintenance guidance, critical safety information.
Diagnostic Capability:
Limited to interpreting dashboard indicators; does not cover detailed diagnostic procedures or repair guides.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
5.5 Liters (5461 cc)
Horsepower:
382 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
391 lb-ft (530 Nm) @ 2800-4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Placement:
Front-longitudinal
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank, 4 valves per cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
98.0 mm x 90.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
NHTSA Overall:
Not specifically rated for 2009 CLS550 by NHTSA in the same way modern vehicles are, but typically performed very well in its class.
IIHS Front Small Overlap:
IIHS testing for this model year/segment may not include the small overlap test as a standard. Typically, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era received 'Good' ratings in available tests.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Driver Assistance:
Optional: DISTRONIC (Adaptive Cruise Control).
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags (front and rear), side curtain airbags.
Restraints:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters, active head restraints (front).
Child Safety:
ISOFIX/LATCH child seat anchorage points.
Head Unit:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Entertainment System)
Display:
7-inch color display screen integrated into the dashboard.
Audio Features:
AM/FM radio, CD player, optional CD changer, MP3 compatibility, optional Harman Kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound system.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth hands-free communication system (SAP module or similar often required for full functionality), potentially an optional Media Interface for iPod/USB connectivity.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control. Optional DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control).
Parking Assist:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors (front and rear).
Headlights:
Bi-Xenon headlights with active curve illumination, automatic leveling, and headlight washers.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, based on Mercedes-Benz Flexible Service System (Assyst Plus).
Major Service A:
Scheduled approximately every 10,000 miles, may include synthetic oil and filter change, tire rotation, inspection of various components.
Major Service B:
Scheduled approximately every 20,000 miles, includes items from Service A plus brake fluid change (every 2 years), cabin air filter replacement, more thorough inspections.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type and driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 (e.g., Shell ATF 134 or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 or 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, often a blue silicate-free formula)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0)
Common Problems:
Potential for air suspension issues (if equipped with Airmatic), SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) system issues on earlier models (though 2009 may have updated components), valve cover gasket leaks, camshaft adjustment solenoids, and ignition coil failures.
Maintenance Recommendations:
Regular fluid changes are critical. Inspecting the cooling system for leaks and proper pressure is important. Checking the condition of the serpentine belt and associated pulleys.
Manufacturer History:
Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, is a globally recognized leader in luxury and premium automotive vehicles, known for innovation and engineering excellence.
Cls Class Introduction:
The CLS-Class was introduced in 2004 as the C219 model, pioneering the 'four-door coupe' segment. The 2009 model represents the facelifted version of the first generation.
Cls550 Positioning:
The CLS550 served as the flagship V8-powered model in the CLS lineup for 2009, slotting above the CLS500 (which was essentially the same car but sometimes offered with different standard features in certain markets).
Production Years:
First Generation (C219): 2004-2010.
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
Segment Accolades:
While specific awards for the 2009 CLS550 might be hard to pinpoint without extensive research, the CLS-Class consistently received positive reviews for its design, comfort, and performance from automotive publications globally during its generation.
Safety Recognitions:
Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era generally demonstrated strong safety performance, a hallmark of the brand.