🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

CL550

Year:

2011

Chassis Code:

C216

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL550 (C216) represents the pinnacle of German luxury grand touring coupes, offering advanced technology, powerful performance, and unparalleled comfort. This manual is designed for owners, independent repair facilities, and enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.

Competitors:

Competed directly with models such as the BMW 7 Series Coupe (6 Series Gran Coupe), Audi A7, Bentley Continental GT, and Porsche Panamera. Its target market is affluent buyers prioritizing performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.

Vehicle Highlights:

The CL550 is characterized by its sophisticated styling, powerful V8 engine, advanced Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, and a wealth of luxury and safety features.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain, steering system, suspension system (front and rear), braking system, climate control system, body control modules, infotainment system, lighting system, wiring diagrams, diagnostics, troubleshooting, maintenance, specifications, torque values, component removal/installation.

Specific Codes Covered:

Provides detailed explanations and diagnostic flowcharts for numerous Mercedes-Benz specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for all vehicle systems.

Estimated Pages:

Thousands (typically comprehensive digital manuals exceed 1000 pages when printed equivalent)

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital (likely searchable PDF or proprietary application)

File Format Details:

Likely delivered as a downloadable executable or a suite of organized PDF files. Software format implies searchability, hyperlinking between sections, and potentially interactive diagrams.

Quality:

Digital reproductions of official factory documentation, ensuring high-resolution diagrams, clear text, and accurate illustrations.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Software)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Detailed coverage of the M273 V8 engine, 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, and associated driveline components.

Chassis:

Comprehensive information on ABC (Active Body Control) suspension, hydraulic systems, steering, and braking systems, including ABS and ESP.

Electrical:

Extensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, diagnostics for all electrical modules, including COMAND infotainment, lighting, and comfort features.

Body Electronics:

Extensive coverage of comfort modules (e.g., seat adjustment, climate control), CAN network architecture, fuse and relay locations, and control unit diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems, including engine components, transmission overhaul, suspension repair, brake caliper replacement, and electrical module replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues.

Body And Trim:

Includes procedures for interior and exterior trim removal and installation, door panel removal, bumper repair/replacement, and headlight/taillight assembly service.

Tire And Wheel:

Information on tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), wheel torque specifications, and tire change procedures.

Depth:

Expert level. Covers everything from routine maintenance and basic repairs to advanced diagnostics, component-level troubleshooting, and complete system overhauls.

Diagnostic Tools:

Covers procedures and information relevant for use with Mercedes-Benz proprietary diagnostic tools such as STAR DIAGNOSIS (XENTRY).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M273

Engine Type:

4.6L V8 (Naturally Aspirated)

Horsepower:

382 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

391 lb-ft @ 2800-4500 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Oil Capacity:

8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change

Recommended Oil:

Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 (or Mercedes-Benz Approved equivalent, MB-Approval 229.5)

Spark Plug Type:

NGK Iridium (e.g., IFR6T11G) or equivalent approved by Mercedes-Benz.

Bore X Stroke:

98.0 mm x 90.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.7:1

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic

Drive Wheels:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) standard, 4MATIC all-wheel drive (AWD) optional.

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios, typically designed for smooth power delivery and efficient highway cruising.

Features:

Includes manual shifting mode (M) via steering wheel paddle shifters, Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 134 or Mercedes-Benz ATF) - Critical to use correct specification.

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.5 - 8.5 quarts (7.0 - 8.0 liters) for a fluid and filter change, refer to manual for precise capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

197.8 inches (5024 mm)

Width:

73.7 inches (1872 mm)

Height:

57.2 inches (1453 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.7 inches (2965 mm)

Front Track:

62.6 inches (1590 mm)

Rear Track:

63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4200-4400 lbs (1905-2000 kg), varies with RWD/4MATIC and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard, typically around 5600 lbs (2540 kg).

Trunk Capacity:

16.4 cubic feet (464 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

While specific NHTSA ratings for the 2011 CL550 might not be readily available due to its niche market and model year, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era are generally engineered to high safety standards. Expect strong performance in areas like frontal and side impact protection.

Active Safety Systems:

PRE-SAFE® anticipatory safety system, DISTRONIC PLUS (Adaptive Cruise Control), PARKTRONIC, Active Bi-Xenon Headlights, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS).

Lane Keeping Assist:

Optional Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Blind Spot Assist (BAS) available on some models.

Passive Safety Features:

Multiple airbags (front, side, window, knee), high-strength steel body structure, crumple zones, active head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation System) with integrated GPS navigation, radio, CD/DVD player, and optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, iPod integration.

Driver Assistance Features:

Keyless-Go (keyless entry and ignition), power closing doors, ambient lighting, optional rearview camera, and the advanced driver assistance systems mentioned in the safety section.

Parking Assistance:

PARKTRONIC parking assist system with front and rear sensors, optional rearview camera.

Comfort Features:

Multi-contour heated and ventilated front seats with memory, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable steering column.

🔧 Maintenance

Service A:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Involves engine oil and filter change, tire rotation, multi-point inspection. The vehicle's ASSYST PLUS system will indicate when service is due.

Service B:

Typically every 20,000 miles or 24 months (following Service A). Includes Service A items plus cabin air filter replacement, brake fluid change (every 2 years), and more comprehensive inspections.

Transmission Service:

Recommended every 30,000-40,000 miles for optimal performance and longevity, especially for the 7G-TRONIC transmission. Includes fluid and filter replacement.

Air Filter Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 miles or as indicated by vehicle service reminder.

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-48 or equivalent meeting MB-Approval 325.0/325.6 for silicate-based blue coolant)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 PLUS (MB-Approval 331.0 or equivalent).

Power Steering Fluid:

MB 236.3 specification fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).

Common Problems:

While generally robust, potential issues can include ABC suspension system leaks or pump failures, ignition coil failures, oil cooler leaks, CAN bus communication errors, and SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) issues on earlier models (though less common on C216 vs. earlier CL/S models). Wear items like brake pads/rotors and tires are frequent replacement items.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive safety technologies. The CL-Class lineage traces back through generations of elegant and powerful coupes.

C216 Generation:

The C216 CL-Class coupe debuted in 2006 as the successor to the C215 CL-Class. The 2011 model year received a mid-cycle facelift, introducing updated styling, more advanced technology, and powertrain enhancements.

Manufacturing Location:

Sindelfingen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Accolades:

While specific awards for the 2011 model year might be varied, the CL-Class has historically been recognized by automotive journalists and consumer publications for its luxury, comfort, performance, and advanced technology, often featuring in 'best luxury car' or 'best grand tourer' lists.