2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600 Is Leaking Oil

Address Oil Leaks in Your 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600 Effectively

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600 is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600 is leaking oil?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for an oil leak in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600?

When faced with an oil leak in your 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600, the first step is to identify any symptoms that may indicate a leak, such as oil spots on the ground or a noticeable burning oil smell. Once you have observed these signs, conduct a thorough visual inspection of the engine and undercarriage to pinpoint the source of the leak. Pay close attention to areas where oil may be pooling or dripping, as this can provide clues to the leak's origin. A critical area to check is the oil filter housing; inspect it for any visible signs of leakage, as this is a common culprit. Additionally, don't overlook the belly pan, particularly the front section, where oil can accumulate. By systematically following these diagnostic steps, you can effectively identify the source of the oil leak and prepare for the necessary repairs, empowering you to tackle the issue with confidence.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600, it's essential to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is the degradation of valve cover gaskets, which can lead to noticeable oil seepage over time. Additionally, the oil pan gasket is another critical area that can wear out or sustain damage, resulting in leaks from the engine's underside. The oil filter housing gasket is also prone to failure, often causing leaks around the oil filter itself. Furthermore, the seals surrounding the oil cooler can deteriorate, leading to external oil leaks that can be easily spotted. Lastly, a failing rear main seal can create significant oil leaks at the back of the engine, which can be more challenging to detect. Understanding these common causes not only aids in identifying the source of an oil leak but also emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance and timely repairs to safeguard the vehicle's performance and longevity.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600 is of utmost importance due to the serious implications of neglecting this issue. An oil leak can lead to a significant drop in oil levels, which compromises the lubrication of critical engine components. This lack of lubrication increases friction and heat, potentially resulting in severe engine damage. Moreover, if the leak is ignored, it can escalate to complete engine failure, necessitating costly repairs or even a full engine replacement. Timely intervention not only preserves the performance and efficiency of your vehicle but also mitigates safety risks, as leaking oil can ignite when it comes into contact with hot engine parts. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and repair any oil leaks promptly to ensure the longevity and safety of your Mercedes-Benz CL600.

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2013 Mercedes-Benz CL600 Oil Leak Causes & Repairs