Farewell CL500, Hello 335i

Jul 3, 2011 | 08:59 PM

~CL500~

Thread Starter

Super Member

Joined: Oct 2005

Posts: 584

Likes: 3

From: Northern NJ

E90 N54 & W251

Farewell CL500, Hello 335i

After 6 years of ownership, it was time to move on.

The CL is an amazing automobile, even by today's standards. When it came on the scene over 10 years ago, it was practically from another planet. I'm glad to have been fortunate enough to be an owner of such a fine automobile. For better or worst; It will be missed.

It's replacement; I recently pulled the trigger on a 2009 335i xDrive.

The CL may be gone, but i'm still part of the MB family with my R350!

It's been real.

Regards

Jul 4, 2011 | 01:41 AM

Powertwang

Newbie

Joined: Jul 2009

Posts: 13

Likes: 0

SLK 320

Congrats. It's funny - I've been considering moving from my CLK500 to a CL500 because I want something bigger and smoother on the road. I play semi-pro music, so the CL's huge trunk has some appeal (and the 335's and 650's are nowhere near big enough). I've found one locally for sale, but it's already had its transmission and the famously expensive-to-maintain suspension system worked on and I have to admit I'm a bit spooked by the prospect of spending $5k a year just to keep it on the road.

Any feedback on what your ownership experience was like and what your reasons were for moving on from yours?

Thanks,

John

Jul 4, 2011 | 07:46 AM

Jud Chapin

MBWorld Fanatic!

Joined: Nov 2004

Posts: 1,121

Likes: 86

From: West Plam Beach, FL

'16 S550 Coupe, '11 Lexus LS460, '02 CL500 (SOLD)

Best of luck with the new ride. Jud

Jul 5, 2011 | 09:48 AM

~CL500~

Thread Starter

Super Member

Joined: Oct 2005

Posts: 584

Likes: 3

From: Northern NJ

E90 N54 & W251

Quote:

Originally Posted by Powertwang

Thanks!

As far as ownership, i've dealt with the common issues, like MAF, ABC pump, idler pulley, transmission shift module, leaky AT adapter plug, etc, and some not so common issues, like the brake booster. The car was my daily driver the past 2 years and honestly it was solid reliable throughout this time period. Only basic maintenance was required.

Most of the part failures occurred when the car was 4-8 years old. For any older car, especially one as complex as the CL, a lot of parts will reach their service life. After you go through the list of commons, you should have another 4-5 years of relatively trouble free ownership (keyword: should). Generally speaking, my car was pretty high maintenance, but for a CL I think it was middle of the road on the headache scale. I've heard much worst AND much better ownership stories on this forum. I'd say if you have your heart set on a CL and find a clean, well maintained example, go for it. Every car guy should own one at least once in their lives.

Good luck to you in your search.