🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

CLS-Class

Trim:

CLS 550

Year:

2012

Generation Code:

C218

Generation Years:

2011-2018

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2012 CLS-Class represents Mercedes-Benz's interpretation of a four-door coupe, blending sleek, aerodynamic styling with luxury and performance, targeting affluent buyers seeking a distinctive and sophisticated vehicle.

Competitive Analysis:

Competes with other premium four-door coupes and high-end luxury sedans, such as the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe (later models), Audi A7, and Porsche Panamera, emphasizing design, technology, and brand prestige.

Key Features:

Distinctive 'CLS-Class' silhouette, powerful V8 bi-turbo engine, advanced driver assistance systems, luxurious interior appointments, available 4MATIC all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC air suspension.

📋 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 500+ pages (typical for a comprehensive Mercedes-Benz owner's manual)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (M278 V8 Bi-Turbo), Transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS), Drivetrain (RWD/4MATIC), Suspension (AIRMATIC), Brakes (ABS, ESP, BAS), Steering, Electrical System, Lighting, Climate Control (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), Infotainment (COMAND APS), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelt Pre-tensioners, PRE-SAFE®), Security (Keyless-Go, Immobilizer).

Procedures Included:

Normal operation, comfort features adjustment, dashboard indicators and warnings, maintenance checks (fluid levels, tire pressure), basic troubleshooting, emergency procedures, key fob operation, starter battery jump-starting, tire changing, fuel information, cleaning and care of interior and exterior, operation of entertainment systems, climate control settings, lighting controls, driver assistance system functions, lock and security system settings, seat and restraint system adjustments, driving techniques, customer assistance contact information.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive owner-level information, including operation, features, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typical of a factory service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for digital viewing and printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M278

Engine Type:

4.7L V8 Bi-Turbocharged

Horsepower:

402 hp @ 5,000-5,500 rpm

Torque:

443 lb-ft @ 1,700-3,500 rpm

Fuel System:

Direct Injection with Twin Turbochargers

Oil Type Specification:

MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (e.g., Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30)

Oil Capacity Quarts:

8.5 quarts (with filter)

Air Filter Part Numbers:

Commonly A2780940004 (check specific VIN for exact fitment)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7G-TRONIC PLUS Automatic

Drivetrain:

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive

Transmission Features:

Driver-selectable modes (Comfort, Sport), Manual shift mode with paddle shifters.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 134)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Quarts:

Approximately 9-10 quarts (for complete fluid change, not just drain and fill)

📐 Dimensions

Length Inches:

197.4 inches

Width Inches:

73.7 inches

Height Inches:

56.4 inches

Wheelbase Inches:

113.2 inches

Curb Weight Lbs:

RWD: ~4,233 lbs / 4MATIC: ~4,365 lbs

Trunk Capacity Cubic Feet:

15.7 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Likely received 5-star ratings in its tested categories (refer to specific NHTSA reports for definitive data)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist System (BAS), Adaptive Brake Lights, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Passive Safety Features:

Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain), front seatbelt pretensioners, PRE-SAFE® system, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cabin.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional: DISTRONIC PLUS (Adaptive Cruise Control), ATTENTION ASSIST, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation).

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM radio, CD/DVD changer, SD card slot, USB interface, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation system, Harman Kardon® surround sound system (optional).

Driver Assistance Systems:

Standard: PARKTRONIC (parking sensors), rearview camera (optional). Available: DISTRONIC PLUS, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, PRE-SAFE® PLUS.

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Mercedes-Benz Apps (limited availability in 2012 models).

🔧 Maintenance

Service A Interval Miles:

Approximately 10,000 miles or 1 year (whichever comes first), indicated by the 'Service A' message on the dashboard.

Service B Interval Miles:

Approximately 20,000 miles or 2 years (whichever comes first), indicated by the 'Service B' message.

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 or 326.0 (e.g., Zerex G-05)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MB 343.0 (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)

Known Issues:

Potential for timing chain guide wear (on earlier M278 engines), issues with the AIRMATIC suspension (air springs, compressor), oil leaks from the valley pan or oil filter housing, transmission shifting concerns, and electronic module failures. Referencing the manual helps in understanding expected behavior and basic checks.

Oil Filter Part Number:

A2781840125 (common for M278 engine)

Cabin Air Filter Part Numbers:

A2128300218 (standard), A2128300318 (with activated charcoal) - check specific VIN

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile.

Model Evolution:

The CLS-Class was first introduced in 2004 (C219) as a groundbreaking 'four-door coupe' segment creator. The second generation (C218) launched in 2010/2011, featuring a more sculpted design and updated technology.

Production Location:

Sindelfingen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The CLS-Class has consistently been recognized for its design and luxury, often winning accolades in automotive design awards and luxury vehicle segments.