2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issues in 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450: Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional warning indicators or messages that might offer further insight into the issue. If the light persists, utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; this tool connects to your vehicle's diagnostic port and retrieves error codes that can help identify the specific problem. Pay attention to any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be exhibiting, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these can provide valuable context for your diagnosis. Finally, consulting your owner's manual can offer specific guidance related to the check engine light and recommended troubleshooting steps. By following this structured approach, you can effectively gather the necessary information to address the underlying issue and potentially resolve it yourself.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450, it can be concerning for any car owner, especially those who prefer to handle repairs themselves. 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 tightened properly is a good first step. If the light persists, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can affect engine performance and fuel efficiency. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or failures, can also illuminate the check engine light, indicating a need for further investigation. Spark plugs and ignition coils are other critical components that, when worn or malfunctioning, can lead to engine misfires and trigger the warning light. Lastly, the mass airflow sensor plays a vital role in regulating air intake, and any issues here can also cause the check engine light to activate. While some of these problems can be diagnosed and potentially fixed at home, it is crucial to remember that persistent issues should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic to avoid further damage to the vehicle.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS450, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and performance problems, which may ultimately result in more severe engine damage and costly repairs. Moreover, driving with this warning active poses safety risks, as it may indicate a malfunction that could affect vehicle operation. Therefore, it is advisable to have your vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. By taking prompt action, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also enhance its longevity and reliability, ensuring a safer driving experience.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.