Most common 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600 problems
Share of the 13 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Mercedes-Benz CL600 complaints by model year
2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600 recalls (1)
Suspension
On certain passenger vehicles, corrosion May occur in the inner steel portions of the active body control's (abc) high-pressure distribution hose due to extensive exposure to heat and humidity. Over time, corrosion May deteriorate the inner steel portions of the hose.
Remedy: Dealers will install new, corrosion resistant abc high-pressure distribution hoses. The recall began August 31, 2004. Owners should contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
What 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600 owners say
Suspension
Tl contact owns a 2002 Mercedes Benz cl-600. The contact stated that the suspension in the vehicle failed several times. The entire front end of the vehicle collapsed and the abc pressure control valve leaked and failed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and they replaced the hydraulics, seal rings, and valves. The vehicle experienced the same failure multiple times and was taken back to the dealer on three different occasions. The repair costs totalled approximately $10,000. He had not noticed any failures since retrieving the vehicle two weeks prior to the complaint. The manufacturer stated that the VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign id number 04V228000 (suspension). The current mileage was approximately 98,000 and failure mileage was approximately 85,000. Updated 3/11/09 updated 03/16/09.
I was driving down the road, then the cars suspension started acting erratic, I could not maintain control of the vehicle till a short time later. My cars suspension raised and lowered in a violent way. My head was thrown forward into the steering wheel, and back in the head rest. I was wearing my seatbelt. I contacted Mercedes, and they told me in so many words, too bad for me.
Engine & cooling
Campaign#2005060019 september2005 -cylinder shut-off oil pressure sensor defect 2002 CL600 on 10.12.2005 certified mb dealer \retailer closed the campaign follow prior to date code 1291listed in this campaign .on or about 1 year the part with date code 1631 defected and make estimate damages determined from mb dealer ewing auto house for $10000.include in this estimate is me control unit which warranty by mb is listed 8years and 80000miles.mb USA and ewing auto house dinay eny financial responsibility. If oil travel through cable harness and practically fill up me-sfi voltage control suplay unit,voltageconverter,ignition modules,oxygen sensors foliw lost control draivability on tne car on 05.03.2008.with other repair bill for $3000.way this defect is not safety recall .
This is a known issue to Mercedes, this is a major fire hazard, these cars are notorious for this problem. Oil will spray all over the exhaust, and plastic creating a vacuum. Lucky my family hasn't died from this fire hazard. Its all over the mb forums, everyone on repair pal, everyone knows that this is common and life threatening hazard that should be replaced with the redesigned oil cooler. I have contacted Mercedes Benz on this issue.
Brakes
Abc hose leaked hydraulic fluid in huge puddle as the vehicle was being backed out of the driveway. Not long after the wheels were sitting on top of the wheel well. Mercedes service diagnosed as hose that requires transmission to be removed to fix. Was told recall work was done in 2004 so I had to pay full repair price ($4,700).
OEM replaced high pressure hydraulic hose defective and leaking again, can cause hydraulic fluid to leak onto hot exhaust and start a complete fire..
2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600 engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.8L 12-cyl | 5-speed automatic | RWD | 13 / 21 / 16 |
EPA ratings. Class: Compact car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600 a good car?
There isn't enough complaint history for the CL600 to compare model years reliably. So far owners have filed 13 complaints with NHTSA.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600?
The suspension — 6 complaints, 46% of all complaints for this model year, most often about rear. Next are the engine & cooling (4) and brakes (3).
How many recalls does the 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600 have?
There is 1 recall for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600, the most recent from May 13, 2004 (suspension). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
At what mileage do 2002 Mercedes-Benz CL600 problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 76,000 miles; 27% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.