CLS 63 - Is it Time to Replace the Battery?

A place for open-ended discussion on any car-related topic.
Post Reply
StarVWmk7
Junior
Posts: 30
Joined: Wed May 12, 2021 4:30 pm

The vehicle in question is a 2014 CLS 63.

I have been standing for over two weeks. Initially, everything seemed OK, but the vehicle was unable to shift out of Park, despite the selector lever functioning well. Operated it for around 30 seconds, powered off, then powered on again, started the startup process, and returned to its usual state. Nevertheless, the green 'ECO' (Stop/Start) indicator did not illuminate for a considerable distance.

I had a similar issue with the 2013 diesel 350 CLS, which was equipped with a traditional seven-speed transmission instead of the MCT gearbox. However, the problem was resolved by installing a new battery. What are the different levels of battery charge for a W211 consumer battery?

In my opinion, it is evident that a replacement of the battery is necessary. Does anybody have a different viewpoint on this matter?
MBcarOWNER
Moderator
Posts: 126
Joined: Fri Sep 13, 2019 2:15 pm

Charge it at a slow pace and I am certain it will be in good condition.
newjimmy54
Senior
Posts: 97
Joined: Thu May 21, 2020 3:30 pm

I recommend using a trickle charger on your vehicle if you plan to leave it unused for more than two weeks. It is advisable to install the charger promptly and often check its status. The duration might range from few months to many years.
MercedesMan98
Moderator
Posts: 100
Joined: Fri Mar 20, 2020 8:40 pm

I would recommend attempting to recharge or recondition the battery prior to replacing it as well.

If you do not already own one, it would be beneficial to get a high-quality battery conditioner, such as the CTEK MXS 5.0, that can be securely used while the battery remains connected to the vehicle. This investment would be profitable, even if it does not resolve the particular problem at hand.

Retailers often have significantly different prices, yet Amazon is often competitive despite its frequent price fluctuations. Typically, you may get one at a price ranging from £50 to £80, depending on the timing and your luck.

Regardless of whether you want to replace the battery or not, the conditioner will prolong the lifespan of the existing or newly installed battery. If you often use your automobile, it is beneficial to condition it on a monthly basis. However, if you do not use your car regularly, it is advisable to keep it connected to a power source while it is parked.

When replacing the battery, use caution in selecting the appropriate replacement. If the automobile is equipped with stop-start technology, it is quite likely that it requires an AGM battery. It is not advisable to save money by purchasing a cheaper standard lead acid battery, since your car's charging system is designed for AGM batteries.

If you do not already have an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) installed, it might be the cause of the problem. The frequent stopping and starting of the vehicle may have negatively affected the lead acid battery, and as a result, the charging system is using an incorrect AGM charging profile for recharging the lead acid battery.
StarVWmk7
Junior
Posts: 30
Joined: Wed May 12, 2021 4:30 pm

I would recommend replacing the Varta AGM battery in the vehicle with either the same brand or a Bosch battery.

The automobile remains outside throughout the whole year. I own a CTEK charger, which works well for my bike stored in the garage. However, based on my observations, once a battery begins to discharge when idle, it often continues to do so. The arrival of winter is a common period for battery issues to arise. I prioritize the car's reliability above attempting to extend the lifespan of a failing battery, only to have it fail again at an inopportune moment.
MBcarOWNER
Moderator
Posts: 126
Joined: Fri Sep 13, 2019 2:15 pm

One of my possessions is used once a month just to maintain the battery's functionality. The battery, which is 11 years old, remains in excellent condition without any issues.
StarVWmk7
Junior
Posts: 30
Joined: Wed May 12, 2021 4:30 pm

Congratulations.
aston_martin76
Junior
Posts: 30
Joined: Tue May 12, 2020 5:45 pm

If it is the original, then it is about 10 years old and has performed well. However, I just recently changed the battery in my wife's A Class car after it had been in use for more than 16 years. Despite its age, the battery was still able to start the car. However, the crank exhibited a little reduced speed and ultimately did not pass the 50 drop test, necessitating its replacement as a precautionary measure against its imminent failure.
Contemporary automobiles have a much higher need for electricity compared to earlier models like as the 169 A Class. As a result, they are more susceptible to the effects of battery deterioration.
StarVWmk7
Junior
Posts: 30
Joined: Wed May 12, 2021 4:30 pm

After being left unused for a week, including a night of being soaked in cold water, the issue did not happen again. The battery, manufactured in 2018, is an authentic MB Varta. Therefore, it is unlikely to be deteriorating at this point. Based on my previous encounters, a lifespan of eight to nine years is anticipated.

The ECO function has consistently shown erratic behavior - at times it is willing to engage, while at other times it is not. Perhaps the gear sticking issue was really a temporary malfunction? I am now use the Ctek device and will assess its performance. However, I anticipate that a replacement battery may be necessary.
Post Reply