Buying a 2003 Cl 600 - advise ? - Benzworld.org

2000BEAST · 09-11-2006, 09:15 PM

Looking at a very nice 2003 CL600 twin turbo. Anything that I should be aware of insofar as problems / recalls etc ? Any help much appreciated. THX

Supercharged SEC · 09-12-2006, 10:29 AM

Active Body Control is the biggest issue that can cost an arm and a leg. Also, if its got the ventilated seats, make sure the fans don't make any noise when you are sitting on the seats. Same goes with the seat massagers. Make sure they work and don't make noise.

I'd also have the dealership run a whole vehicle diagnostic check to see if there are any eror codes in the system. Check brakes and hydraulic hoses while they have the car. The brakes are cheaper than a 210 E55's brakes but they are in no way cheap.

2000BEAST · 09-13-2006, 06:41 PM

Good stuff - thanks for the tips.

BTW - what is the real world MPG on these babies ? I've heard mileage everything from 12-16 to 16-22.

Supercharged SEC · 09-13-2006, 08:03 PM

Average is 12.5, according to the trip computer, over the last 1,500 miles. That's a combination of city and highway. On the highway, you can average around 20 mpg.

charley101 · 09-14-2006, 06:14 PM

My 2001 CL600 (normally aspirated, not twin turbo) shows 18.1 on the trip computer over the last 4,000 miles. So the TT really makes a difference. Which is exactly what you would expect I guess. Normally aspirated or twin turbo, it doesn't matter - the CL600 is one of the finest automobiles ever made. Enjoy!

2000BEAST · 09-15-2006, 07:34 AM

Funny you should say that - I've looked at two cars so far - both ivery low miles and both in mint condition (seems most CL drivers baby their cars). One was 2002 the other 2003. Both drive very similarly around town but when you punch it a little the 03 twin turbo really fires up and surely that contributes to lower mpg. Oh well - cant have everything (too bad).

Supercharged SEC · 09-15-2006, 08:50 AM

You could get 18 or so MPG on average but you'd have to stay off the boost. In other words, you'd have to drive very conservatively and never dip into the throttle.

2000BEAST · 09-15-2006, 07:27 PM

I know that the NA CL600 has that variable cylinder feature for improved mileage. Does the twin turbo also have that feature ?

PS - dont know how we got going on MPG - I own a Gwagen for Christ sake so who really gives a rip ?

Supercharged SEC · 09-16-2006, 01:29 PM

I'm not 100% sure but I don't think so. I really like the CL600. It makes my 210 E55 feel like it has a KIA interior in comparison. The CL is just that much nicer. Everything is wood, leather, or chrome. Not to mention, the CL handles better than the E55. The ABC suspension is truly amazing as is the chassis stiffness. There are no squeeks or rattles in my CL like there is in the E55. I think the E55 is a much more economical car and will give longer life with fewer troubles but the CL600 is oh so very nice to drive!

Michael Pillay · 09-16-2006, 08:53 PM

I would suggest having the pre-purchase inspection (ppi) done some place other than the dealership. My experience with dealership ppi's has been that they are very limited, especially for the cost. I would contact a independant mercedes shop that comes with the recommendation of other forum members in the area or your local MBCA. Keep in mind, if you plan on doing a ppi at the dealership the current owner goes to-they have a relationship with him/her. They expect future business from the seller. I would not use an indy that the seller uses either.