1st Generation Mercedes-Benz CLS Class Squeaky Brakes

The Mercedes-Benz CLS Class C219 was designed by the American Michael Fink—well known for the CLK, C-Sport Coupe, and the Maybach 57 and 62—to integrate the best qualities of a coupe and a sedan. The production run of the C219 lasted from 2004 until 2010, and during this time many owners found that their breaks were unusually squeaky.

Squeaky breaks are undoubtedly one of the most annoying problems that can arise in a car. We use the breaks all the time, everywhere, and when they begin to make that high-pitched whine when pushed, it doesn’t take long before we become fed up. There’s also the question of safety. If the breaks are squeaking, does that mean they are failing or should be replaced? Is there a chance that something is going horribly wrong that will soon cause an accident? Chances are good that you are not in any grave danger, but that doesn’t mean you need to live with the squeaking.

A common factor related to break noises on all C219s is the glaze that gets put on the break pads at the Mercedes-Benz factory. Many dealers will simply tell you to drive the car fast and break hard in order to wear the glaze off, but this might not sound like such a fun or necessary idea to some people. Another possibility is that the break pads are old, and need to be replaced. A good thing to check for is excessive grime around the rims caused by break dust. If the dust is there, it’s highly likely that the squeaking is caused by the factory break pads’ glaze.

A nearby German auto repair mechanic can check the car out for you and find exactly what the problem is with your breaks. If they need to be replaced, this mechanic can replace them. If it’s just the glaze, he or she can tell you and help you come up with solutions to make the squeaking vanish forever.

Search for a local, independent Mercedes-Benz repair shop with Mercedes-Benz mechanics that have dealer-level expertise at a fraction of the expense.