2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 14, 2026Ethan Miller
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Exceptional initial reliability with zero NHTSA recalls or complaints.
  • Focus pre-purchase inspections on overall condition and service records, not specific known defects.
  • The CLS-Class offers a refined driving experience and upscale interior.
  • While safety ratings are not provided, the absence of recalls suggests a strong safety foundation.
Overview

2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class offers a blend of luxury, style, and performance, positioning itself as a sophisticated four-door coupe. For the used car buyer, this model year stands out for its exceptional initial reliability, with no recalls or complaints filed with NHTSA. Its advanced technology and premium interior appointments remain competitive, though buyers should focus on general condition and maintenance history given the lack of specific known issues.

Critical Failure Risk

Exceptional initial reliability with zero NHTSA recalls or complaints.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a stylish and luxurious sedan with a strong reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers who may find maintenance and repair costs higher than average luxury brands.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class.

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Body Style
Sedan

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Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Synthetic Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, OEM Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Pressure Check - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades and Fluid Level

Est. shop cost: $150 - $300

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 9.7/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Synthetic Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, OEM Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Pressure Check - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades and Fluid Level at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600.

What transmission does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, transmission is Automatic.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?

8 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, body style is sedan.