2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 has a check engine light?

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.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, helping to identify the specific issue at hand. Additionally, inspect the condition of your spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can also cause the light to illuminate. Ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can lead to engine complications. Finally, take a moment to inspect the wiring and connections under the hood for any visible damage or corrosion, as faulty wiring can be a significant factor in triggering the check engine light. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the underlying issues, potentially saving time and money on repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400, it can be a source of concern for any driver. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensuring it is secure is a good first step. If the gas cap is not the culprit, the oxygen sensor may be at fault, as a malfunction here can lead to poor fuel efficiency and emissions problems. Another common issue is the catalytic converter, which can fail or become inefficient, causing the light to illuminate. Additionally, problems with the mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. Worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils can also result in engine misfires, which will trigger the check engine light. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can guide you in identifying the specific issue. However, for more complex problems, consulting a qualified mechanic is recommended to ensure proper diagnosis and repair.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on a 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400?

When the check engine light appears on your 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400, it is essential to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning light indicates that your vehicle's engine system is experiencing issues that could escalate into more serious problems if left unaddressed. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to significant damage, resulting in costly repairs and potentially compromising your vehicle's safety and performance. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide valuable insights into the underlying issues. By addressing these problems promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's health but also enhance its longevity and reliability. Remember, proactive maintenance is key to ensuring your Mercedes-Benz continues to perform at its best, so don’t delay in investigating the cause of that check engine light.

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2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 Check Engine Light Guide