Market Position:
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 (C219) represents a luxury grand tourer, blending coupe styling with sedan practicality. It competed in a segment with vehicles like the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe and Audi A7.
Competitive Analysis:
Positioned as a stylish and powerful alternative to traditional luxury sedans, the CLS550 offered distinctive design, a potent V8 engine, and advanced Mercedes-Benz technology and comfort features.
Key Features:
Striking 'four-door coupe' design, potent 5.5L V8 engine, available 4MATIC all-wheel drive, advanced suspension systems (ABC/AIRMATIC), luxurious interior appointments, and a suite of electronic safety and convenience features.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Climate Control, Interior, Exterior Bodywork, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair Procedures, Specifications.
Page Count:
Extensive (Specific number not provided, but implies comprehensive coverage)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Online access implied)
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical (M273 V8), Engine control (ME 9.7), Automatic Transmission (722.9 7G-TRONIC), 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive (if equipped), ABC (Active Body Control) suspension, AIRMATIC air suspension (if equipped), Power steering, Brake system (including SBC/ABS/ESP), Electrical system (wiring diagrams, component testing), Climate control (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), Infotainment system, Body control modules, Lighting systems, SRS (Airbag) system, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs), Scheduled maintenance intervals, Component removal and installation, Diagnostic procedures for common faults, Troubleshooting guides, Repair instructions for major and minor repairs, Overhaul procedures, Electrical system testing and repair, Software updates and coding (likely requires STAR/XENTRY), Wheel alignment specifications, Torque specifications for all fasteners, Lubricant and fluid recommendations, Clutch/torque converter procedures, Differential service, ABS/ESP calibration.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive and in-depth, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts, electrical schematics, component specifications, and step-by-step repair instructions with diagrams.
Standard Transmission:
7-speed automatic (722.9 7G-TRONIC)
Optional Transmission:
7-speed automatic with 4MATIC AWD (722.9)
Transmission Features:
Driver-adaptive shifting, TouchShift manual shifting, Comfort/Sport modes.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 (or equivalent approved)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 Liters (dependent on torque converter drain)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (for models tested)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely Good across most categories (based on Mercedes-Benz safety focus)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Passive Features:
Front airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Front and rear side curtain airbags, Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters, Active front head restraints.
Driver Assistance Options:
Distronic (Adaptive Cruise Control), Parking Assist, Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering function.
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation EXperience) with 6.5-inch display, CD/DVD changer, AM/FM radio, MP3 capability, and optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional Distronic (Adaptive Cruise Control), PARKTRONIC (Parking Sensors), bi-xenon headlamps with adaptive cornering function.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth telephony interface (optional), Voice control (Linguatronic, optional).
Comfort Convenience Features:
Keyless-Go, Power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, Multi-contour front seats with massage function (optional), Heated and ventilated front seats (optional), Multi-zone automatic climate control (THERMOTRONIC).
Service Intervals:
Flexible service intervals indicated by the 'Service A/B' system (driven by driving style and mileage), typically ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 miles (16,000 - 24,000 km) or 12 months. Key services include: Oil and filter change (every 10k-15k miles), Air filter replacement (every 30k miles), Cabin filter replacement (every 20k miles), Spark plug replacement (every 60k-100k miles depending on type), Brake fluid flush (every 2 years), Coolant flush (every 5 years/100k miles).
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 Liters (approx.)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Zerex G05 or equivalent MB 325.0)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Known Issues:
ABC suspension hydraulic leaks/strut failure, SAM module issues (fuse box), Crankshaft position sensor failure, Idling problems (vacuum leaks), Transmission conductor plate failure, Door lock actuators, Rust on fenders and rocker panels, Harmonic balancer failure. The manual will detail diagnosis and repair for these common problems.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
A 273 180 01 09
Air Filter Part Number Example:
A 273 094 01 01
Cabin Filter Part Number Example:
A 211 830 03 18
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
Model Evolution:
The CLS (C219) was introduced in 2004 as a groundbreaking 'four-door coupe', filling a niche between the E-Class and S-Class. The 2008 model represents a mid-cycle refresh with updated styling and technology.
Production Years:
2004-2010 (C219 generation)
Production Locations:
Sindelfingen, Germany
Recognitions:
The CLS550 often received accolades for its distinctive styling and luxury appointments, though specific year-by-year awards might vary. Its design language influenced subsequent Mercedes-Benz models.
Ratings:
Consistently rated highly for interior comfort and build quality by automotive journalists.
Certifications:
N/A (Focus on automotive engineering standards and internal Mercedes-Benz specifications).
