2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG Is Leaking Oil

Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG 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 first steps to diagnose an oil leak in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine and undercarriage. Look for any signs of oil pooling or dripping, as these can provide immediate clues to the leak's source. Next, check the oil levels; a significant drop may indicate a leak that needs attention. Pay close attention to the oil filter and drain plug, as these components are common culprits for leaks—ensure they are secure and free from oil residue. Additionally, inspect the gaskets and seals around the engine, as wear or damage here can often lead to leaks. If the source remains elusive, consider performing a pressure test on the oil system, which can help identify leaks that are not visible during a standard inspection. Should you find yourself uncertain or unable to locate the leak, consulting a qualified mechanic is a wise choice, as they can provide expert insight and recommend necessary repairs. By following these steps, you can systematically approach the diagnosis of an oil leak, potentially saving time and money in the repair process.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is the degradation of the oil pan gasket, which can wear down over time, leading to leaks. Similarly, valve cover gaskets are prone to wear and can also develop leaks, allowing oil to escape from the engine. Another potential source of leaks is the oil filter housing gasket; if this component fails, it can result in significant oil loss. Additionally, issues with the oil cooler seals can contribute to leaks, as can a leaking rear main seal, which is located at the back of the engine. Addressing these problems promptly is vital to maintaining engine health and performance, and regular inspections can help catch these issues early, allowing DIY enthusiasts to take action before they escalate.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent necessity that should not be overlooked. Oil leaks can lead to a critical loss of lubrication, which is essential for the smooth operation of your engine. Without adequate lubrication, the engine can overheat, resulting in severe damage to vital components that could lead to costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Moreover, the safety implications of an oil leak cannot be ignored. Leaking oil poses a fire hazard, especially if it comes into contact with hot engine parts, creating a dangerous situation for both the driver and passengers. Therefore, it is imperative to address any signs of an oil leak immediately to safeguard your vehicle's performance and ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Taking prompt action not only protects your investment but also enhances your driving experience by maintaining the reliability and efficiency of your Mercedes-Benz.

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2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS53 AMG Oil Leak Causes & Repairs