U.S. public vehicle records

2008 Mercedes Benz CLS550 problems and owner complaints

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

17 owner complaints analyzed

3 distinct recall campaigns

80,000 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2008 model year. Data updated: 2026-10-01 (October 1, 2026). 13 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Fuel/Propulsion System is the most frequently named component, appearing in 5 of 17 complaints (29.4%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
Topic	Matching reports	Share of complaints
Braking behavior	1	5.9%
Electrical and battery issues	1	5.9%
Steering behavior	1	5.9%
Fuel system concerns	1	5.9%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Fuel/Propulsion System

Air Bags

Electrical System

Engine

Suspension

Electronic Stability Control (Esc)

Exterior Lighting

Power Train

Fuel/Propulsion System: 5; Air Bags: 3; Electrical System: 3; Engine: 2; Suspension: 2; Electronic Stability Control (Esc): 1; Exterior Lighting: 1; Power Train: 1

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000

25,000 to 49,999

50,000 to 74,999

75,000 to 99,999

100,000 to 149,999

150,000 and above

Under 25,000: 1; 25,000 to 49,999: 1; 50,000 to 74,999: 3; 75,000 to 99,999: 5; 100,000 to 149,999: 2; 150,000 and above: 1

75,000 to 99,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (5). 4 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2012

2013

2014

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2022

2023

2024

2025

2012: 1; 2013: 1; 2014: 2; 2016: 3; 2017: 2; 2018: 1; 2019: 1; 2020: 2; 2022: 1; 2023: 1; 2024: 1; 2025: 1

Pattern summary

Fuel/Propulsion System leads the component reports. Braking behavior appears in 1 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 1 complaint narratives. Steering behavior appears in 1 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Complaint evidence

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10937133 · 2016-12-22 (December 22, 2016)

PARKING BRAKE INOPERATIVE AND A YELLOW PARK TRIANGLE WARNING AT LEFT CORNER OF THE DASHBOARD DISPLAY.

Owner-reported narrative. 80,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10937133 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11465666 · 2022-05-22 (May 22, 2022)

My doors will open without the keyfob being in close proximity to the vehicle. My car has been stolen d/t this feature. Also the electrical lighting system malfunctions causing dimmer lights especially when driving at night

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11465666 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10935341 · 2016-12-14 (December 14, 2016)

I WAS DRIVING G THROUGH A PARKING LOT WHEN THE SERPENTINE BELT BROKE. NATURALLY, THE CAR BECAME DIFFICULT TO STEER BUT MANAGEABLE. AS I ATTEMPTED TO TURN INTO A PARKING SPOT I HEARD A 'POP' UNDER THE HOOD. WHEN THIS OCCURRED, THE WHEEL WENT INTO A FREE SPIN. THERE WAS NO INPUT FROM THE STEERING WHEELS TO THE RACK AND PINION. UPON INVESTIGATION I FOUND THE LOWER STEERING SHAFT BROKEN ABOUT 2 INCHES ABOVE THE RACK SPLINE. THE STEERING SHAFT WAS BROKEN IN TWO. THE INCREASED FORCE REQUIRED TO TURN THE WHEEL WAS TOO MUCH FOR THE SHAFT TO HANDLE. *T…

Owner-reported narrative. 65,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10935341 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10484967 · 2012-11-16 (November 16, 2012)

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ 550 CLS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FUEL COULD BE SMELLED INSIDE THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING AND WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN PARK. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE TEST RESULTS SHOWED THAT A VENT INSIDE THE FUEL TANK WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT DID NOT HAVE THE VENT REPLACED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT THE FAILURE HAD BECOME A COMMON PROBLEM FOR THE PARTICULAR YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL BUT A RECALL HAD NOT BEE…

Owner-reported narrative. 30,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10484967 at NHTSA ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

17 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-10-01.

76.5%Usable mileage13 / 17 records

100.0%Valid incident date17 / 17 records

100.0%Valid filing date17 / 17 records

100.0%Ordered incident and filing dates17 / 17 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

From model yearThrough model year

Component complaint heatmap
Component	2006	2007	2008	2009
Fuel/Propulsion System	342.9% ODI 11385141 · 70,000 mi SMELLS LIKE GAS INSIDE THE CAR AFTER FILLING UP WITH FUEL. ONLY SMELLS INSIDE THE CAR AND IS VERY STRONG. Look up ODI 11385141 at NHTSA ↗	1748.6% ODI 10468843 · 28,000 mi WHEN II FILL MY GAS TANK I SMELL GAS FUMES IN AND AROUND THE VEHICLE. THE SMELL IS COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SEAT ON THE DRIVERS SIDE. I HAD THE VEHICLE CHECKED BY A MERCEDES MECHANIC WHO IS A FRIEND OF MINE AND HE SAID IT IS THE FUEL SENDING UNIT. HE PULLED OUT MY SEAT AND THEIR WAS A PUDDLE OF GAS ON TOP OF THE UNIT. WHEN I FILL MY TANK TO UNDER 3/4 THERE IS NO SMELL. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS ISSUE AND APPARENTLY THERE IS AN ON GOING INVESTIGATION BY NHTSA REGARDING THE E SERIES MERCEDES WHICH HAS THIS PROBLEM. THE CLS 550 IS ON THE … Look up ODI 10468843 at NHTSA ↗	529.4% ODI 10484967 · 30,000 mi TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ 550 CLS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FUEL COULD BE SMELLED INSIDE THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING AND WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN PARK. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE TEST RESULTS SHOWED THAT A VENT INSIDE THE FUEL TANK WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT DID NOT HAVE THE VENT REPLACED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT THE FAILURE HAD BECOME A COMMON PROBLEM FOR THE PARTICULAR YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL BUT A RECALL HAD NOT BEE… Look up ODI 10484967 at NHTSA ↗	125.0% ODI 10616261 · 61,000 mi ON MAY 19, 2014 I PURCHASED A 2009 MERCEDES CLS550 FROM MOSSY FORD DEALERSHIP IN SAN DIEGO, CA WITH A GUARANTEE OF NO CURRENT OR PRE-EXISTING MECHANICAL OR HAZARD ISSUES. DAYS AFTER PURCHASE I NOTICED ACCELERATION ISSUES, STRONG ODOR OF FUEL OR CHEMICALS, ENGINE NOISE AND GAS EFFICIENCY PROBLEMS. I CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP AND ASKED TO RETURN THE VEHICLE AND ALSO CANCEL THE SALES CONTRACT BUT WAS DENIED. I WAS ASKED TO BRING IN THE VEHICLE AND THE GAS TANK WAS FILLED BY THE DEALERSHIP STATING THAT PROBLEMS WERE LIKELY CAUSED BY LOW FUEL AS THE… Look up ODI 10616261 at NHTSA ↗
Fuel System, Gasoline	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	822.9% ODI 10400684 · 24,272 mi 2007 MERCEDES BENZ CLS-550, FUEL SYSTEM LEAK, 24,272 MILES, TOWED TO DEALER, DEALER CLAIMED THAT FUEL SENDER CAP WAS VERY LOOSE, DEALER REPLACED GASKET FOR FUEL SENDER. FOURTEEN DAYS AFTER, REFILLED CAR WITH GASOLINE, HAD A FUEL LEAK AGAIN, DROVE TO LOCAL REPAIR SHOP, MECHANIC FOUND FUEL LEAKING FROM FUEL SENDER HOUSING THE PLASTIC PLUG USED TO MOUNT PRESSURE SENSOR FOR EVAP. SYSTEM, NEEDS REPLACEMENT OF FUEL SENDER. *TR Look up ODI 10400684 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	00.0% No examples available for this selection.
Suspension	114.3% ODI 11492439 Fuel/propulsion system failed during operation on X-Way. Squeaking noise front suspension. Wheel rims cracking. Replacement key fob not working. Look up ODI 11492439 at NHTSA ↗	25.7% ODI 10463071 · 47,000 mi I WAS DRIVING AND THE CAR SENSOR POPPED AND IT SAID STOP VEHICLE TOO LOW... WHEN STOPPED, I SAW THAT THE RIGHT PASSENGER SIDE LOOKED LIKE IT WAS DROPPED RIGHT OVER THE WHEEL... THE REST OF THE CAR WAS RAISED.. I TRIED EVERYTHING THE MANUAL SAID, NOTHING WORK.. I CAN HEAR A COMPRESSOR WORKING.. I HAVE SEEN MANY A FEW BLOGS ON THE INTERNET WITH PEOPLE COMPLAINING ABOUT SAME ISSUE. MY VEHICLE HAS 47,000 MILES. AND IT SEEMS TO BE RIGHT WHEN THE PROBLEM OCCURS. *TR Look up ODI 10463071 at NHTSA ↗	211.8% ODI 10604985 · 63,500 mi WHILE APPROACHING INTERSTATE ON RAMP BEGAN TO HEAR A LOUD WHISTLING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT LEFT WHEEL WELL. I PULLED OVER AND FOUND THE LEFT FRONT SUSPENSION BEGINNING TO SINK. THE STRUT LOWER TO A POINT WHERE THE BODY OF THE CAR WAS ONLY 2-3 INCHES ABOVE THE TIRE. WHEN I CHECKED THE DASHBOARD INDICATORS I HAD AN ERROR LIGHT INDICATING THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TOO LOW TO DRIVE. *TR Look up ODI 10604985 at NHTSA ↗	125.0% ODI 10981041 · 100,000 mi THE ISSUES REGARDING THE MERCEDES AIRMATIC SUSPENSION SYSTEM HAVE BEEN WIDELY KNOWN FOR YEARS, AND MERCEDES NEVER MADE AN EFFORT TO MITIGATE THE MERCEDES LOYAL OWNERS EXCESSIVE EXPENSE TO COVER THE REPAIR. IT IS ALSO HARD TO BELIEVE THE DEALER NEVER INFORMED, INSPECTED OR RECOMMENDED REPAIRS TO THE AIRMATIC SYSTEM. IT TOOK BREAKING DOWN OFF THE HIGHWAY WITH MY CHILDREN IN THE CAR TO DISCOVER THIS PROBLEM. THE SUSPENSION FAILED AND THE CAR COULD NOT BE DRIVEN. A A TOW WAS NECESSARY AND A HUGE REPAIR BILL FOLLOWED. Look up ODI 10981041 at NHTSA ↗
Air Bags	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	12.9% ODI 10325591 I HAD A BRAND NEW MERCEDES BENZ 2007 CLCS 550 EXPENSIVE CAR CLOSE TO 80K. WELL I TOOK A RIDE TO MAINE WITH MY FRIEND. GOT STUCK IN TO A SNOW STORM. CAR LOST CONTROL AND GOT TO ACCIDENT CAR WAS FOUND TOTALED, NONE OF THE AIR BAGS WAS DEPLOYED, FRONT,BACK,SIDE NONE OF IT. I WAS BADLY HURT 2-3 MONTHS LATER I HAD TO HAVE SURGERY ON MY SHOULDER I WAS OUT OF WORK FOR A 11/2YRS. MY FRIEND WAS HURT IN HIS GROIN AREA. UNTIL TODAY I HAVE PAIN IN MY WHOLE RIGHT HARM . I HAVE NERVES PROBLEM. AND TAKE PAIN MEDICINES. MERCEDES THINK NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH… Look up ODI 10325591 at NHTSA ↗	317.6% ODI 11014980 · 75,000 mi HAVE GOTTEN AIRBAG CODE B9223. DRIVERS SIDE IGINITION SQUIB RESISTED CENTER IS HIGH R12/9 MESSAGE. TOOK IT TO.LOCAL.MB DEALER AND THEY WANT $1800 TO FIX A AIRBAG PROBLEM, WHICH IS SOMETHING THAT SHOULD BE DEFECT FREE REGARDLESS OF WARRANTY. THIS IS AN ONGOING ISSUES WITH MB AND IT HONESTLY SEEMS THAT THIS IS DONE DELIBERATELY TO GENERATE REVENUE BY SELLING SERVICE FOR ALMOST $2000 TO REPLACE A $50 CONNECTOR THEY KNOW IS MANUFACTURED IN A SUBPAR FASHION, EXPECTING IT TO FAIL. MB HAS FAILED MYSELF AND COUNTLESS OTHERS WITH THIS ONE SIMPLE P… Look up ODI 11014980 at NHTSA ↗	125.0% ODI 11041817 TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE HYDROPLANED AND CRASHED INTO A GUARDRAIL. NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE SHOULDERS, NECK, AND BACK. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT REQUIRED; HOWEVER, THERAPY TREATMENTS WERE RECEIVED MONTHS LATER. THE INSURANCE COMPANY TOWED THE VEHICLE WITHOUT AN INVESTIGATION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED BY A DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER ISSUED ONE TSB, BUT THERE WAS NO MANUFACTURER AIR BAG RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS … Look up ODI 11041817 at NHTSA ↗
Electrical System	114.3% ODI 11437059 Re 2006 MERCEDES BENZ CLS500_ 211017_114326 On August 9, 2021, my brakes went out on the freeway when trying to dodge debris and other vehicles, when the brakes completely went out and caused me to run over major wood pallet debris, and scared for my.life to get to the far right lane to make it off te exit with no brakes whatsoever. and causing major under-carriage repairs. Rather than hit the cars on each side of me, all I could do at that point was get over lanes with no brakes, and make it off the exit before I killed myself and/or s… Look up ODI 11437059 at NHTSA ↗	12.9% ODI 10451128 · 57,000 mi TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 MERCEDES BENZ S550. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, BLACK SMOKE EMITTED FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND WITHIN SECONDS, THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED BY THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND ADVISED THAT THE FIRE APPEARED TO BE ELECTRICAL. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 57,000. Look up ODI 10451128 at NHTSA ↗	317.6% ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.
Service Brakes	457.1% ODI 11437059 Re 2006 MERCEDES BENZ CLS500_ 211017_114326 On August 9, 2021, my brakes went out on the freeway when trying to dodge debris and other vehicles, when the brakes completely went out and caused me to run over major wood pallet debris, and scared for my.life to get to the far right lane to make it off te exit with no brakes whatsoever. and causing major under-carriage repairs. Rather than hit the cars on each side of me, all I could do at that point was get over lanes with no brakes, and make it off the exit before I killed myself and/or s… Look up ODI 11437059 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	15.9% ODI 10937133 · 80,000 mi PARKING BRAKE INOPERATIVE AND A YELLOW PARK TRIANGLE WARNING AT LEFT CORNER OF THE DASHBOARD DISPLAY. Look up ODI 10937133 at NHTSA ↗	00.0% No examples available for this selection.
Engine	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	12.9% ODI 10851440 EVERY TIME I FILL UP MY TANK WITH GASOLINE, ONCE I PARK IN THE GARAGE, THE GARAGE IS FILLED WITH STRONG GAS FUMES FROM MY CAR. I CHECKED FOR LEAKS UNDER THE CAR AND FOUND NOTHING. I HAVE TO RAISE THE GARAGE DOOR TO LET THE FUMES OUT, DUE TO GETTING LIGHTHEADED FROM THE FUMES. THE FUMES REMAIN WITH THE CAR FOR 7-10 DAYS. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR THE PAST FOUR YEARS. THIS PROBLEM IS A DANGER TO MY FAMILY'S HEALTH!!!! SURELY, THERE IS A RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM! 2ND ISSUE: I TURNED MY CAR OFF AND THE FAN KEPT RUNNING. I NOTICED THAT THE FAN W… Look up ODI 10851440 at NHTSA ↗	211.8% ODI 10935341 · 65,000 mi I WAS DRIVING G THROUGH A PARKING LOT WHEN THE SERPENTINE BELT BROKE. NATURALLY, THE CAR BECAME DIFFICULT TO STEER BUT MANAGEABLE. AS I ATTEMPTED TO TURN INTO A PARKING SPOT I HEARD A 'POP' UNDER THE HOOD. WHEN THIS OCCURRED, THE WHEEL WENT INTO A FREE SPIN. THERE WAS NO INPUT FROM THE STEERING WHEELS TO THE RACK AND PINION. UPON INVESTIGATION I FOUND THE LOWER STEERING SHAFT BROKEN ABOUT 2 INCHES ABOVE THE RACK SPLINE. THE STEERING SHAFT WAS BROKEN IN TWO. THE INCREASED FORCE REQUIRED TO TURN THE WHEEL WAS TOO MUCH FOR THE SHAFT TO HANDLE. *T… Look up ODI 10935341 at NHTSA ↗	125.0% ODI 10616261 · 61,000 mi ON MAY 19, 2014 I PURCHASED A 2009 MERCEDES CLS550 FROM MOSSY FORD DEALERSHIP IN SAN DIEGO, CA WITH A GUARANTEE OF NO CURRENT OR PRE-EXISTING MECHANICAL OR HAZARD ISSUES. DAYS AFTER PURCHASE I NOTICED ACCELERATION ISSUES, STRONG ODOR OF FUEL OR CHEMICALS, ENGINE NOISE AND GAS EFFICIENCY PROBLEMS. I CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP AND ASKED TO RETURN THE VEHICLE AND ALSO CANCEL THE SALES CONTRACT BUT WAS DENIED. I WAS ASKED TO BRING IN THE VEHICLE AND THE GAS TANK WAS FILLED BY THE DEALERSHIP STATING THAT PROBLEMS WERE LIKELY CAUSED BY LOW FUEL AS THE… Look up ODI 10616261 at NHTSA ↗
Power Train	00.0% No examples available for this selection.	25.7% ODI 11163610 · 116,000 mi DRIVING HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND SUDDENLY VEHICLE JERKED AND LOSSES ALL POWER. ENGINE REVS BUT DOESN'T MOVE. THIS CAN BE A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. TRANSMISSION WENT INTO 'LIMP' MODE AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT LIT. MANY OTHER MERCEDES OWNERS REPORTING SAME PROBLEM WITH THE 722.9 TRANSMISSION VALVEBODY, CONDUCTOR PLATE, AND/OR TCM. THIS SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED AS COUNTLESS OTHER PEOPLE ARE REPORTING THIS SAME ISSUE FOR SEVERAL YEARS NOW. Look up ODI 11163610 at NHTSA ↗	15.9% ODI 11591644 I bought a 2008 mercedes cls and have had it for a while now and with no warning it has started making a banging noise while idling. It idles very rough and shakes my car. I'm unable to drive it safely at this point. The engine is also mimicking symptoms of an idler gear/ balance shaft wearing down due to poor building materials from factory allowing movement of the timing chain. Apparently causing the engine to blow. I don't know what to do now. I don't know if it is covered by mercedes. But I know I am not alone on needing this to become a re… Look up ODI 11591644 at NHTSA ↗	125.0% ODI 10616261 · 61,000 mi ON MAY 19, 2014 I PURCHASED A 2009 MERCEDES CLS550 FROM MOSSY FORD DEALERSHIP IN SAN DIEGO, CA WITH A GUARANTEE OF NO CURRENT OR PRE-EXISTING MECHANICAL OR HAZARD ISSUES. DAYS AFTER PURCHASE I NOTICED ACCELERATION ISSUES, STRONG ODOR OF FUEL OR CHEMICALS, ENGINE NOISE AND GAS EFFICIENCY PROBLEMS. I CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP AND ASKED TO RETURN THE VEHICLE AND ALSO CANCEL THE SALES CONTRACT BUT WAS DENIED. I WAS ASKED TO BRING IN THE VEHICLE AND THE GAS TANK WAS FILLED BY THE DEALERSHIP STATING THAT PROBLEMS WERE LIKELY CAUSED BY LOW FUEL AS THE… Look up ODI 10616261 at NHTSA ↗

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
Component	Mileage range (25th–75th percentile)	Median	Usable records	Examples
Fuel/Propulsion System	Too few reports for a range	42,500 mi	4 (sparse)	ODI 10484967 · 30,000 mi TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ 550 CLS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FUEL COULD BE SMELLED INSIDE THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING AND WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS SITTING IN PARK. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE TEST RESULTS SHOWED THAT A VENT INSIDE THE FUEL TANK WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT DID NOT HAVE THE VENT REPLACED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT THE FAILURE HAD BECOME A COMMON PROBLEM FOR THE PARTICULAR YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL BUT A RECALL HAD NOT BEE… Look up ODI 10484967 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 10503839 · 55,000 mi ON MARCH 10, 2012 MY WIFE STARTED THE AFOREMENTIONED VEHICLE AND IMMEDIATELY BEGAN TO SMELL GASOLINE FUMES IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. AS SHE EXITED THE PARKING GARAGE, THE TOXIC FUEL SMELL BECAME UNBEARABLE AND SHE IMMEDIATELY TURNED- AROUND, RE-ENTERED THE GARAGE, QUICKLY SHUT OFF THE CAR AND EXITED THE VEHICLE FOR FEAR OF FAINTING AND / OR AN EXPLOSION. THE MB REP EXPLAINED TO US THAT THERE WAS A FAILURE IN THE FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM; WHICH IS ACCESSIBLE UNDER THE BACKSEAT OF THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT; AND THE LEAKAGE CAUSED FUEL TO BE PUMP… Look up ODI 10503839 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 10604989 · 16,000 mi I PULLED INTO A SERVICE STATION TO FILL MY TANK. AFTER ADDING FUEL TO CAPACITY I BEGAN TO SMELL FUEL IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. I ATTRIBUTED THE SMELL TO POSSIBLY SPILLING FUEL ON MYSELF. I DROVE THE VEHICLE TO WORK AND THEN HOME. THE NEXT MORNING I CONTINUED TO SMELL FUEL IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS A LEAK IN THE TANK THAT WAS SPLASHING / VENTING INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN SHARED THAT THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE CLS. *TR Look up ODI 10604989 at NHTSA ↗
Air Bags	Too few reports for a range	89,995 mi	3 (sparse)	ODI 11014980 · 75,000 mi HAVE GOTTEN AIRBAG CODE B9223. DRIVERS SIDE IGINITION SQUIB RESISTED CENTER IS HIGH R12/9 MESSAGE. TOOK IT TO.LOCAL.MB DEALER AND THEY WANT $1800 TO FIX A AIRBAG PROBLEM, WHICH IS SOMETHING THAT SHOULD BE DEFECT FREE REGARDLESS OF WARRANTY. THIS IS AN ONGOING ISSUES WITH MB AND IT HONESTLY SEEMS THAT THIS IS DONE DELIBERATELY TO GENERATE REVENUE BY SELLING SERVICE FOR ALMOST $2000 TO REPLACE A $50 CONNECTOR THEY KNOW IS MANUFACTURED IN A SUBPAR FASHION, EXPECTING IT TO FAIL. MB HAS FAILED MYSELF AND COUNTLESS OTHERS WITH THIS ONE SIMPLE P… Look up ODI 11014980 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11217013 · 89,995 mi THE AIRBAGS LOCATED IN THE ROOF JUST DEPLOYED OUT OF NO WHERE WHEN I WAS ON MY WAY HOME FROM WORK ONLY THE 2 SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS Look up ODI 11217013 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗
Electrical System	Too few reports for a range	95,000 mi	1 (sparse)	ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗
Engine	Too few reports for a range	82,500 mi	2 (sparse)	ODI 10935341 · 65,000 mi I WAS DRIVING G THROUGH A PARKING LOT WHEN THE SERPENTINE BELT BROKE. NATURALLY, THE CAR BECAME DIFFICULT TO STEER BUT MANAGEABLE. AS I ATTEMPTED TO TURN INTO A PARKING SPOT I HEARD A 'POP' UNDER THE HOOD. WHEN THIS OCCURRED, THE WHEEL WENT INTO A FREE SPIN. THERE WAS NO INPUT FROM THE STEERING WHEELS TO THE RACK AND PINION. UPON INVESTIGATION I FOUND THE LOWER STEERING SHAFT BROKEN ABOUT 2 INCHES ABOVE THE RACK SPLINE. THE STEERING SHAFT WAS BROKEN IN TWO. THE INCREASED FORCE REQUIRED TO TURN THE WHEEL WAS TOO MUCH FOR THE SHAFT TO HANDLE. T… Look up ODI 10935341 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 11341067 · 100,000 mi TL THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AT START-UP THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED OR INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000. Look up ODI 11341067 at NHTSA ↗
Suspension	Too few reports for a range	146,750 mi	2 (sparse)	ODI 10604985 · 63,500 mi WHILE APPROACHING INTERSTATE ON RAMP BEGAN TO HEAR A LOUD WHISTLING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT LEFT WHEEL WELL. I PULLED OVER AND FOUND THE LEFT FRONT SUSPENSION BEGINNING TO SINK. THE STRUT LOWER TO A POINT WHERE THE BODY OF THE CAR WAS ONLY 2-3 INCHES ABOVE THE TIRE. WHEN I CHECKED THE DASHBOARD INDICATORS I HAD AN ERROR LIGHT INDICATING THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TOO LOW TO DRIVE. *TR Look up ODI 10604985 at NHTSA ↗ ODI 10980150 · 230,000 mi PLEASE ADVISE OF ANY MERCEDES BENZ RECALLS ON AIR SUSPENSION ISSUE WITH CLS CLASS VEHICLES, IN PARTICULAR, CLS550 MODEL. THERE SEEMS TO BE A RECURRING ISSUE WITH LEAK OR MALFUNCTION WITH HYDRAULIC AIR SUSPENSION CAUSING VEHICLE TO LEAN TO ONE SIDE AND INCUR WARNING OF "STOP VEHICLE IS TOO LOW". Look up ODI 10980150 at NHTSA ↗
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)	Too few reports for a range	95,000 mi	1 (sparse)	ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

ComponentPeriod

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples

Monthly complaint and recall timeline
Month	Complaints	Campaigns announced	Examples
2024-11	0	24V874000	No examples available for this selection.
2024-12	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-01	1	None	ODI 11638320 The failed component of the car was the drivers side fuel transfer pump. After noticing the faint smell of gas in my car i checked under the rear driver side passenger seat. I was shocked to find more than 16 fluid ounces of gas floating freely around the well of the gas pump.the insulation under the rear passenger seat is soaked in gas. I can only imagine what could’ve happened if there was an accident or if someone even sparked a cigarette in my car. Not only is this extremely dangerous, there are negative consequences that result from inha… Look up ODI 11638320 at NHTSA ↗
2025-02	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-03	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-04	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-05	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-06	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-07	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-08	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-09	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-10	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-11	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2025-12	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-01	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-02	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-03	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-04	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-05	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-06	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-07	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-08	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-09	0	None	No examples available for this selection.
2026-10 (partial)	0	None	No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Observation windowFirst model yearSecond model year

2008: 0 complaints · 2009: 0 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model year	Through age 0	Through age 1	Through age 2
2008	0	0	0
2009	0	0	0

Date coverage across each selected cohort

Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
Year	Incident dates used	Filing date fallbacks	Excluded dates
2008	17	0	0
2009	4	0	0

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
Component	Fuel/Propulsion System	Air Bags	Electrical System	Engine	Suspension	Electronic Stability Control (Esc)	Exterior Lighting	Power Train
Fuel/Propulsion System	—	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Air Bags	0	—	1 ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	1 ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗	0	0
Electrical System	0	1 ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗	—	0	0	1 ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗	1 ODI 11465666 My doors will open without the keyfob being in close proximity to the vehicle. My car has been stolen d/t this feature. Also the electrical lighting system malfunctions causing dimmer lights especially when driving at night Look up ODI 11465666 at NHTSA ↗	0
Engine	0	0	0	—	0	0	0	0
Suspension	0	0	0	0	—	0	0	0
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)	0	1 ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗	1 ODI 11343649 · 95,000 mi MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AFTER ON DAY OF DRIVING HOME FROM A DAY BABYSITTING MY NIECE AND NEPHEW I GOT HOME PARKED MY CAR IN THE GARAGE AND THAT WHOLE NIGHT FROM 11 AT NIGHT UNTILL ABOUT 330 IN THE MORNING THE LOUDEST SOUND I'VE EVER HERD THE EQUIVALENT OF A BOMB DETONATION EXPLOSION WENT OFF AND IM 10 15 FEET AWAY PAINTING MY GARAGE AND NEXT THING I KNOW I LOOK AT MY MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550 2008. ALL THE AIRBAGS IN THE ROOF AND BY THE BACK WINDOW DETONATING! I CANT UNDERSTAND WHY TO THIS DAY THE CAR WAS LOCKED KEYS WHERE IN MY ROOM IN THE HOUSE. … Look up ODI 11343649 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	—	0	0
Exterior Lighting	0	0	1 ODI 11465666 My doors will open without the keyfob being in close proximity to the vehicle. My car has been stolen d/t this feature. Also the electrical lighting system malfunctions causing dimmer lights especially when driving at night Look up ODI 11465666 at NHTSA ↗	0	0	0	—	0
Power Train	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

Search patterns

2 patterns with matching reports.

Fuel smell or leak mentions

2 mentions · 11.8% of complaints

Median mileage: 16,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10604989 · 16,000 mi

I PULLED INTO A SERVICE STATION TO FILL MY TANK. AFTER ADDING FUEL TO CAPACITY I BEGAN TO SMELL FUEL IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. I ATTRIBUTED THE SMELL TO POSSIBLY SPILLING FUEL ON MYSELF. I DROVE THE VEHICLE TO WORK AND THEN HOME. THE NEXT MORNING I CONTINUED TO SMELL FUEL IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS AND WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS A LEAK IN THE TANK THAT WAS SPLASHING / VENTING INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN SHARED THAT THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE CLS. *TR

Look up ODI 10604989 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11638320

The failed component of the car was the drivers side fuel transfer pump. After noticing the faint smell of gas in my car i checked under the rear driver side passenger seat. I was shocked to find more than 16 fluid ounces of gas floating freely around the well of the gas pump.the insulation under the rear passenger seat is soaked in gas. I can only imagine what could’ve happened if there was an accident or if someone even sparked a cigarette in my car. Not only is this extremely dangerous, there are negative consequences that result from inha…

Look up ODI 11638320 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule

\b(fuel leak\w*|gas leak\w*|gas(?:oline)? smell|smell\w* (?:of )?(?:fuel|gas))\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

1 mentions · 5.9% of complaints

Median mileage: 100,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 11341067 · 100,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ CLS550. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AT START-UP THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED OR INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.

Look up ODI 11341067 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule

\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b