2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 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 CLS550 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.

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 steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550?

When diagnosing an oil leak in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with straightforward visual inspections and progresses to more complex diagnostics. Start by conducting a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay and the area beneath the vehicle, looking for any visible signs of oil, such as puddles or stains. This initial step can often reveal the source of the leak. Next, check the oil levels using the dipstick; a significant drop may indicate a leak that needs further investigation. Pay close attention to the oil filter and drain plug, as these components can sometimes be the culprits behind leaks. If no obvious issues are found, consider performing a pressure test on the oil system, which can help identify hidden leaks. Additionally, inspect the gaskets and seals, particularly the valve cover and oil pan gaskets, as these are common areas for oil leaks. For more elusive leaks, adding UV dye to the engine oil can be an effective method to trace the source under UV light. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address oil leaks in your CLS550.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550, 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 lead to oil seepage over time. Additionally, valve cover gaskets are known to wear out, resulting in leaks from the top of the engine. Another area to inspect is the oil filter housing gasket; if it fails, oil can leak around the oil filter, creating a mess and potential hazards. Timing cover leaks are also a concern, often stemming from faulty gaskets or seals that allow oil to escape. Lastly, issues with the oil cooler seals can contribute to leaks within the engine compartment. Addressing these problems promptly is essential to prevent further engine damage and maintain optimal vehicle performance. Regular inspections and maintenance can help DIY enthusiasts catch these issues early, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical maintenance issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring an oil leak can lead to severe engine damage, as the oil is essential for lubricating engine components and preventing overheating. Over time, a small leak can escalate, resulting in a significant loss of oil, which may cause the engine to seize or fail entirely. Additionally, oil leaks can create hazardous driving conditions, as leaking oil can affect traction and lead to accidents. Therefore, it is imperative to diagnose and repair any oil leaks promptly to safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity. Taking swift action not only protects your investment but also ensures your safety on the road.

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