Market Position:
The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (C215) represented the pinnacle of German luxury personal coupes, targeting affluent buyers seeking executive-level comfort, advanced technology, and potent performance in a stylish, sophisticated package.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with flagship coupes from brands like BMW (8 Series - though phased out for this generation), Bentley (Continental GT), Aston Martin (DB series), and high-end offerings from Lexus and Jaguar.
Key Features:
S-Class underpinnings, opulent interior, advanced electronic systems (e.g., COMAND infotainment, Active Body Control), powerful V8 and V12 engines, sophisticated styling, and a reputation for robust build quality.
Coverage Areas:
Vehicle operation, maintenance, safety, features, basic troubleshooting, specifications
Page Count:
Estimated 300-400 pages (typical for this model year and class)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual / User Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Systems Covered:
Engine, transmission, braking system, suspension, steering, climate control, electrical system (lighting, power accessories), infotainment, safety systems (SRS, ABS, ESP), instrument cluster, interior controls, exterior features, wheels and tires, fluid levels and types.
Procedures Included:
Pre-drive checks, understanding dashboard indicators, operating climate control, using infotainment system, locking/unlocking, adjusting seats and mirrors, refuelling, basic fluid checks (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, changing wiper blades, using emergency equipment, understanding warning lights.
Technical Depth:
Designed for the owner to understand and operate their vehicle safely and effectively. Focuses on user-level information, not in-depth repair procedures. Limited troubleshooting guidance for common issues.
Primary Engine Cl500:
M113 E50: 5.0L SOHC V8
Primary Engine Cl55 Amg:
M113 E55 ML: 5.5L SOHC V8 Kompressor (Supercharged)
Primary Engine Cl600:
M137 E60 LA: 6.0L SOHC V12 Biturbo
Performance Cl500 Hp:
Approx. 302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Performance Cl500 Torque:
Approx. 339 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Performance Cl55 Amg Hp:
Approx. 493 hp @ 6100 rpm
Performance Cl55 Amg Torque:
Approx. 516 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm
Performance Cl600 Hp:
Approx. 362 hp @ 5500 rpm
Performance Cl600 Torque:
Approx. 410 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Transmission Cl500 Cl600:
5-speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
Transmission Cl55 Amg:
5-speed AMG Speedshift Automatic (722.6 based)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (All models equipped with automatic transmission)
Transmission Features:
TouchShift manual shifting mode, Comfort and Sport modes (standard on CL500/CL600, enhanced by AMG on CL55)
Safety Ratings:
No specific NHTSA or IIHS ratings readily available for this niche luxury coupe from 2002, but Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era were known for robust safety structures.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system (standard or optional depending on model/package).
Passive Features:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on configuration), seatbelt pre-tensioners, crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, typically with a central display, CD player, radio, navigation, and optional tele-aid.
Infotainment Features:
Optional Bose sound system, CD changer, voice control (later models), navigation system with map updates.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (PARKTRONIC), optional Distronic adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming mirrors.
Connectivity Features:
Optional Tele Aid emergency calling system, analog or digital cell phone integration (often obsolete).
Convenience Features:
Keyless-Go (push-button start), powered trunk closer, automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, power-adjustable steering column and seats with memory.
Service Intervals:
Refer to manual for specific intervals. Generally, A-Service (minor) every 10,000 miles or 12 months, B-Service (major) every 20,000 miles or 24 months. Intervals may vary based on driving conditions and specific components (e.g., transmission fluid, brake fluid).
Engine Oil Spec:
Mobil 1 Synthetic (e.g., 0W-40 or 5W-40, refer to manual for exact MB-Approval specification like MB 229.5).
Transmission Fluid Spec:
MB Specification 236.10 or 236.12 for 5-speed automatic. Dexron III is generally NOT compatible.
Coolant Spec:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent with MB-Approval 325.0).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Plus (e.g., Pentosin Super DOT 4 or equivalent with MB-Approval 331.0).
Known Issues Common:
Active Body Control (ABC) system hydraulic leaks and pump failures, ignition coil failures (especially on V8/V12), catalytic converter issues (especially on V12), COMAND system glitches, EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) problems, trunk latch failures, window regulator issues, early SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) on some later models.
Engine Oil Capacity Cl500:
Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity Cl55 Amg:
Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity Cl600:
Approx. 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) for dry fill, less for fluid change.
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, has a long-standing legacy of engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, particularly in the luxury and grand touring segments.
Model Evolution:
The CL-Class (C215) was the successor to the S-Class Coupe (C140) and was based on the W220 S-Class sedan platform, marking a shift towards more sleeker, aerodynamic styling and advanced electronic integration. It was replaced by the C216 CL-Class for the 2007 model year.
Production Years:
1999-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
