IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2013–2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS (C218)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2013–2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS (C218). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2013–2018 period has 1 more issue than the Mercedes-Benz CLS (C218) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Airmatic air suspension leaks

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

Air springs leak and compressors wear out, causing the car to sag on one corner and throw suspension warnings.

Most affected: Models with Airmatic

Estimated cost: £800–£2,000Affects: 2010–2018Often appears around: 60,000–120,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •One corner sits low
  • •Suspension warning light
  • •Noisy compressor

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check ride height after overnight stand
  • ✓Listen for compressor noise
  • ✓Check for recent Airmatic work

NOx sensor and AdBlue system faults

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

BlueTEC diesel models regularly trigger engine lights, limp mode or no-restart countdowns when NOx sensors or AdBlue heaters fail.

Most affected: CLS 220 BlueTEC, CLS 300 BlueTEC

Estimated cost: £400–£1,000Affects: 2013–2018Often appears around: 40,000–100,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Engine management light
  • •AdBlue countdown warning
  • •Limp mode

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for recent NOx sensor invoices
  • ✓Drive until fully warm
  • ✓Confirm warnings do not return after restart

7G-Tronic conductor plate failure

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The 7-speed automatic gearbox conductor plate can fail, causing harsh shifts, limp mode and gear reading errors.

Most affected: All 7G-Tronic models

Estimated cost: £400–£1,200Affects: 2010–2018Often appears around: 80,000–140,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Harsh shifts when warm
  • •Limp mode
  • •Gearbox warning

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive until fully warm
  • ✓Check for smooth shifts
  • ✓Look for recent gearbox electrical work

Buying Tips for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS (C218)

  • ✓Diesels should be scanned for NOx and AdBlue faults even if the engine light is off.
  • ✓Check Airmatic cars for overnight sagging.
  • ✓Test the COMAND infotainment system thoroughly for lag or disc read errors.
2010–2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (C218)

Browse 2013–2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS (C218) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2013–2018 Mercedes-Benz CLS (C218) vehicles.

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Other Mercedes-Benz CLS (C218) Year Periods

2010–20122013–2018

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