2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issues in 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 CLS53 AMG 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 CLS53 AMG 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 CLS53 AMG?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG, the first step is to conduct a thorough visual inspection. Start by checking the gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a faulty gas cap is a common culprit for triggering the light. Next, pay attention to any additional dashboard indicators or warning messages that may offer further insights into the issue at hand. If these initial checks do not reveal the problem, utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial next step. This tool connects to your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system, allowing you to retrieve specific error codes that can guide you in identifying the underlying issue. Additionally, take note of any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be exhibiting, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these details can be invaluable in diagnosing the problem. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action to resolve it.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems associated with this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust gases and regulating fuel efficiency. If this sensor malfunctions, it can lead to increased emissions and poor fuel economy. Another simple issue to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can allow fuel vapors to escape, triggering the light. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or inefficiencies, can also illuminate the check engine light, indicating a need for inspection. The mass airflow sensor is another critical component; if it fails, it can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, resulting in performance issues. Furthermore, issues with spark plugs or ignition coils can lead to engine misfires, which are often signaled by the check engine light. Lastly, an engine misfire itself, stemming from various factors, can prompt this warning. While these are common issues, it’s advisable to use an OBD-II scanner for a more precise diagnosis or consult a qualified mechanic to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that there may be underlying issues with your engine or emissions system that could compromise your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Ignoring this signal can lead to more severe problems down the line, including costly repairs or even catastrophic engine failure. 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 specific issues at hand. However, while some minor problems may be manageable at home, it is crucial to consult a qualified mechanic for more complex issues to prevent further damage. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's health but also enhance its reliability and longevity, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

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2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG Check Engine Light Solutions