Mercedes Cl65

I don't know.

Some CL's have a pneumatic suspension and some have a hydraulic system.

I do know that my 2008 CL 63 has the hydraulic system. The steering pump failed at ~60,000 miles, which controlled the hydraulic suspension, and I paid less than $2k for. That was the biggest cost so far. When brakes are due, that'll be a bit more.

IMHO, none of it is a "plague". Each is a worthwhile system that needs to be properly maintained.

Matt

 

CL65 as a model (6.0L V-12, 604 hp) only started as a model in 2005 and uses Active Body Control just as the SL and S class of that same year.

Previous to that, the next years to differentiate were 2003-04. 2003 saw the introduction of a twin-turbo CL600 V-12 and supercharged V8 CL55. Prior to 2003, the models were not forced induction and more than 100hp down to the 2003+ models. 2003-04 definfitely also used the hydraulic system with the power steering pump as part of that closed system.

As I understand it, the servo valves of the ABC system have metal-to-metal contact, which eventually leads to fine metal particles in the system which leads to the valves being unable to fully close. This is the cause of the dreaded "droopy corner" where one wheel ride height drifts down overnight. A properly functioning system should keep the car exactly at the height it was when turned off, indefinitely. These systems are now also pushing 10 years old, so any high-pressure hose could also blow at any moment.

I have never seen anything to confirm that scheduled fluid changes will reduce the chances of having a shock absorber, pump, or valve go south over time, but it certainly makes sense that replacing dirty fluid and bleeding the system wouldn't cause any harm at all. I would think every 25-30k miles, spending a few hundred to change the fluid might be cheap insurance.

If I were to buy a CL65 of this vintage I would definitely have it inspected at the M-B dealer. I would suspect that an initial fluid change, with bleeding and replacing all hoses that don't look perfect would probably be pushing $2000. But at least then you would know the system is put back to as close to new as possible. Same for an S or SL of this age.

 

ABC system is prone to failing, have experienced it both my 2004 CL500 and s600. The abc repair on both was paid under extended warranty and it was in thousands. My s600 had all four shocks replaced along with a new pump and some hoses at cost of over $12000, all paid under warranty. So if you are in the market for a car like that do yourself a favor and spend few thousand more and buy the best extended warranty you can find. It will pay itself off in 2-3 visits. Amazing machines though, specially my v12 Twin Turbo has been the best car I have ever owned.
On a positive note, Arnott started selling rebuilt abc shocks for these cars and they are lot cheaper I believe $599 per shock and have lifetime warranty versus $1800 at the dealer.

 

Stay away from any Benz with ABC (including CL65). Unless its under warranty you will regret it.

Off the OP's question a bit but also keep in mind that off warranty these engines cost HUGE money to replace. I once read a blown SL65 motor cost over $90k to replace :x Having blown a turbo'd engine before on an "indestructible" car, I can tell you first hand engine blocks aren't forgiving of problems with forced induction.