Problem Reports
Report A ProblemProblem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS550
Airmatic Pump Motor May Fail Due to Sticking Relay
A sticking relay, causing the airmatic pump motor to constantly run, may causee the airmatic pump motor to fail or the battery to go dead when the car is shut off. Worn airmatic pump mount bushings can causes noises in the front axle while driving on bumpy roads or a buzzing noise.
Low Vehicle Ride Height Due to Leaking Rear Air Springs
Rear air springs (bellows) may develop leaks, which causes the air pump to run more often to maintain ride height. Our technicians recommend that leaking air springs be replaced.
Squeaking/Worn Brake Pads May Require Rotor Replacement Also
Due to the size and material used on the brakes of these vehicles, the brakes may start to squeak around the 50 percent wear point. The brake rotor surfaces become uneven, causing a lip to form at the outer edge of the rotor. Because of this, the rotors are usually replaced when the pads are worn (pad life varies depending on driving style and terrain).
Brake Light Switch Failure May Cause ESP/BAS Warning Lights
The ESP and BAS warning lights may illuminate due to a failed brake light switch. Replacement of the failed switch should correct this concern.
Failed Gateway Module May Cause Lack of Audio/Cell Phone Functionality
Lack of audio or cell phone functionality may be related to the failure of the audio gateway module.
Tire Wear Caused By Worn Front Thrust Link Bushings
Irregular and premature tire wear can be caused by the front thrust link bushings cracking and causing excessive movement in the suspension. The thrust link bushings are fluid-filled (to help reduce vibration), so if they crack, they will leak oil.
Cracked Driveshaft Flex Discs May Cause Driveshaft Movement/Vibration
A vibration felt through the center floor of the vehicle can be caused by driveshaft flex discs, which crack and shred, causing excessive driveshaft movement. Not repairing these can cause damage to the driveshaft center support bearing, or, in the worst case scenario, damage to the transmission or differential.
Computer system software updates may cost money if car is out of warranty
Many software updates are available for the different computer systems, but if the vehicle is out of warranty, it may cost money to receive the updates (unless it is a recall). Some updates may be dealer-only, but a well-equipped independent shop can usually provide updates as well.
Early Versions of Central Gateway Module Have Software Problems
The early versions of the central gateway module (which allows different systems to communicate with each other) have software problems.
ABS Modulator Failure Due to Dirty Brake Fluid
It is not uncommon to encounter premature failure of the anti-lock brake system (ABS) modulator assembly due to dirty brake fluid. Our technicians recommend flushing the brake fluid every two years in order to help prevent this problem.