Market Position:
The 2004 CL-Class (C215) represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's luxury coupe offerings, targeting discerning buyers seeking advanced technology, supreme comfort, and potent performance. The COMAND APS system was a key differentiator, offering a sophisticated integrated infotainment and navigation experience.
Target Audience:
Owners of the 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (C215) who want to fully understand and utilize the advanced COMAND APS system.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other high-end luxury coupes such as the BMW 8 Series (previous generation), Lexus SC, and Bentley Continental GT. The COMAND APS system was considered class-leading for its integration and functionality at the time.
Key Features:
Integrated navigation, premium audio control, advanced climate control interface, telephone connectivity, and comprehensive vehicle settings accessible through a central control unit and color display.
Coverage Areas:
COMAND APS system functions, navigation, audio, climate control integration, telephone features, settings, troubleshooting
Coverage Areas Detail:
Explains operation of the rotary/push-button controller, voice commands for navigation and audio, managing phone contacts, configuring display settings, understanding navigation prompts, and using the audio system's features.
Page Count:
Estimated 100-150 pages (based on typical factory operator manuals for this system)
Manual Type:
Operator's Manual / Owner's Manual (for COMAND APS System)
Systems Covered:
COMAND APS infotainment system, Audio 20/30/50, Navigation system (GPS), CD changer, Radio, Telephone integration (Bluetooth/SIM card), Climate control interface, Vehicle settings menu, Voice control system (optional)
Additional Systems Covered:
Basic operation of climate control system via COMAND interface, seat adjustment memory linked to COMAND profiles.
Procedures Included:
System initialization, Navigation destination entry, Map display and modes, Audio source selection and control, Radio tuning and presets, Climate control adjustments via COMAND, Phone pairing and usage, Bluetooth connectivity, Voice command usage, System settings configuration, Troubleshooting common system errors, Software update procedures (conceptual)
Procedures Included Detail:
Step-by-step guides for setting up personal profiles, customizing dashboard displays, managing audio equalizer settings, troubleshooting common audio or navigation errors (e.g., 'GPS signal lost'), and operating the telephone functions.
Technical Depth:
User-focused operational procedures and feature explanations; does not cover internal component diagnostics or repair procedures.
Engine Code:
M113 E50/E55 (for CL500/CL55 AMG)
Engine Type:
V8, SOHC/DOHC (depending on variant), 3 valves per cylinder (for M113 series)
Displacement:
4966 cc (CL500), 5439 cc (CL55 AMG)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 84.0 mm (CL500), 97.0 mm x 92.0 mm (CL55 AMG)
Engine Technology:
Aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads, cast-iron cylinder liners
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5600 rpm (CL500), 493 hp @ 6100 rpm (CL55 AMG - Supercharged)
Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (CL500), 516 lb-ft @ 2650 rpm (CL55 AMG - Supercharged)
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (722.6 series)
Transmission Control:
TouchShift with comfort/sport modes
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic AMG SpeedShift (CL55 AMG)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 236.14 (e.g., ATF LT 71141 or equivalent)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Not rated (as common for vehicles of this era, especially luxury coupes)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Not rated (as common for vehicles of this era, especially luxury coupes)
Active Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation), Brake Assist (BAS)
Passive Features:
Front airbags, Side airbags, Head airbags (window airbags), Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters, Crumple zones
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation).
Display Type:
Color LCD display, typically 6.5 inches
Audio Sources:
AM/FM Radio, CD player, CD Changer (optional), Cassette player (early models/versions)
Navigation Type:
GPS Navigation with CD-ROM or DVD-ROM based map data
Control Interface:
Central COMAND controller knob and buttons, steering wheel controls (for audio and phone), voice command system.
Driver Assistance:
PARKTRONIC (parking assist sensors), DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control - optional)
Connectivity:
Integrated Bluetooth hands-free system (phone cradle or direct pairing), SiriusXM Satellite Radio (optional, requires subscription and hardware)
Other Tech:
Keyless-Go (start/stop engine without key - optional), Bi-xenon headlights with cornering function, Rain-sensing wipers
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, or as indicated by the ASSYST (Active Service System).
Major Service Interval:
Service B typically around 20,000 miles or 24 months, involving more comprehensive checks and replacements (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol EDGE 0W-40)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts) for CL500, 8.5 liters (9.0 US quarts) for CL55 AMG
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts) for a fluid change, significantly more for a full rebuild/flush.
Known Issues:
ABC (Active Body Control) suspension leaks/failures, Crankshaft position sensor failures, EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) issues, Transmission control module (TCM) issues, Window regulator failures, COMAND screen delamination/pixelation
Known Issues Detail:
Symptoms of ABC failure include 'ABC Fault' messages, vehicle lowering unevenly, or suspension stiffness. EIS faults often result in no-start conditions or intermittent starting issues.
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and innovation, particularly in the coupe segment with models like the SEC and SL series.
Model Evolution:
The C215 CL-Class succeeded the C140 S-Class Coupe, offering a sleeker design and more advanced technology. It was built on the S-Class platform, emphasizing comfort and performance. The 2004 model year represented the facelifted version (post-2002) with updated styling and technology.
Production Years:
1999-2006
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany
