The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 is a sophisticated four-door coupe that combines elegant styling with the performance of a turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine. Keeping this luxury vehicle running at its peak requires more than just filling up the tank; it demands the use of premium synthetic fluids designed to meet the rigorous standards of German engineering. Proper lubrication ensures optimal protection against wear, extreme temperatures, and the high demands of modern turbocharging technology. By selecting the right AMSOIL products, owners can extend the life of critical components and maintain the vehicle’s renowned driving dynamics.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – This oil is specifically formulated for the unique demands of European gasoline, diesel, and hybrid vehicles, featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Designed for extreme protection, this fluid ensures your CLS400’s engine remains fluid and protected in sub-zero temperatures while providing excellent high-temperature stability.
- WIX Oil Filter – This premium filter offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters, using high-quality media to trap contaminants and protect your engine’s internal components.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mix formulation that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses while exceeding original equipment manufacturer requirements for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula that requires mixing with water, offering superior protection against corrosion and erosion for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – This fluid withstands the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions to ensure smooth shifting.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – An excellent choice for protecting against wear and ensuring compatibility with the specific transmission codes found in this Mercedes-Benz model.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, meeting Mercedes-Benz Sheet 331.0 approval standards.
Engine Oil and Filtration for the 3.0L V6
The heart of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 is its 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine, identified by the internal engine code 276.820. This high-output powerplant generates significant heat and operates under high stress, making the selection of the correct motor oil critical for longevity. The manufacturer recommends oils that meet specific European standards to handle the unique stresses of turbocharged engines.
AMSOIL offers two primary viscosity grades suitable for this engine depending on your local climate and driving habits. The AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil is an excellent choice for most conditions, providing robust protection above -25°C. For those facing colder winters or seeking maximum flow during cold starts, the AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil offers superior low-temperature fluidity without sacrificing high-temperature film strength. Both fluids are European formula specific, ensuring the right additive package for benzene-free, precise tolerances found in Mercedes engines.
When changing the oil, it is vital to account for the total capacity of the system. The engine holds 6.9 quarts when the filter is replaced. After refilling, the oil level should always be checked carefully to ensure the correct volume is present. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 22 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or stripping of the threads. To ensure that contaminants are effectively removed from the circulating oil, a high-quality filtration system is required. The WIX Oil Filter (Part Code 57059) is the recommended choice. It utilizes premium media that outperforms standard OEM filters, capturing harmful particles to keep the engine internals clean and extending the life of your motor oil.
Transmission and Cooling System Care
The 2016 CLS400 is equipped with a sophisticated automatic transmission that is sensitive to fluid quality. Depending on the specific configuration of the vehicle, such as the presence of the A89 code (Reduced-Friction) on the datacard, the transmission requirements vary slightly. The fluid should meet specifications 722.961 or 722.904.
For these transmissions, AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid provides superior protection against wear and maintains consistent performance even during heavy towing or in challenging terrain. The total fill capacity for the 7-speed transmission is approximately 9.5 quarts. Alternatively, AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is an excellent option that meets OE requirements and helps protect against wear, ensuring smooth gear shifts throughout the vehicle’s life.
Proper cooling is essential for both the engine and transmission, especially given the turbocharger’s heat output. The cooling system capacity for this vehicle is 10.9 quarts. Owners can choose between AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant, which comes as a convenient 50/50 pre-mix, or AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant if a concentrated formula is preferred for storage or specific mixing ratios. Both products are phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free, preventing corrosion and scaling in the intricate cooling passages of the Mercedes-Benz engine block.
Brake Fluid and Additional Maintenance
Safety is paramount in a vehicle of this caliber. The brake fluid system in the CLS400 requires a high-performance fluid to maintain pedal feel and system reliability, particularly for models with the HBH code. The recommended fluid must meet DOT 4 standards and be approved on MB Sheet 331.0. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is designed to provide a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, ensuring excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness. This fluid helps prevent the vapor lock issues that can occur with traditional glycol-based fluids under heavy braking.
For fuel system maintenance, using a high-quality additive can help maintain peak efficiency. AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive is recommended to restore up to 14% horsepower and clean GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate. Additionally, for vehicles that will be stored, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup.
About the Vehicle
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz CLS400 represents a unique blend of luxury and sportiness in the automotive world. As part of the CLS-Class line, which Mercedes-Benz positioned as a four-door coupe, it distinguishes itself from the traditional sedan format with a sleek, sloping roofline that tapers down toward the rear. This design gives the CLS400 a dynamic profile that appeals to buyers seeking the utility of a sedan with the style of a sports car.
Under the hood, the 3.0L V6 engine, part of the M276 family, is a turbocharged unit that delivers a strong balance of power and fuel efficiency. This engine code, 276.820, signifies a modern powertrain designed for responsiveness and low emissions without sacrificing performance. The CLS400 is known for its comfortable yet engaging ride quality, thanks to advanced suspension tuning and the precise handling provided by its steering system.
Owners of the CLS400 often appreciate the vehicle’s versatility. It serves as a daily driver for city commuting while remaining capable on weekend getaways or highway trips. The interior is typically spacious, offering a premium environment with high-quality materials and advanced technology features standard for the brand. Whether navigating urban traffic or cruising on the open road, the CLS400 provides a driving experience that aligns with the brand’s reputation for engineering excellence. Maintaining this vehicle with high-performance synthetic lubricants ensures that its sophisticated mechanics continue to perform as intended for years to come.