The Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 was produced from 2019 to 2023 as part of the third generation C257 platform. The CLS 450 features a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 engine (M256.930) with integrated EQ Boost mild hybrid technology available in both rear-wheel drive and 4MATIC all-wheel drive configurations.

Using the correct oil capacity, viscosity, and type is essential for maintaining engine performance and longevity. Oil capacity varies between the rear-wheel drive and 4MATIC versions, with the RWD model requiring 10.0 quarts and the 4MATIC requiring 9.0 quarts.
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2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo Inline-6 (M256.930) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – RWD | 10.0 qt (9.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – 4MATIC | 9.0 qt (8.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – RWD | 9.5 qt (9.0 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – 4MATIC | 8.5 qt (8.0 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Specification | MB 229.51 or MB 229.31 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22 lb-ft (30 N·m) |
| Oil Filter Torque | 18 lb-ft (25 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 256-184-00-00, Hengst B0166-B398785 |
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 uses a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 engine that requires 10.0 quarts of full synthetic oil for rear-wheel drive models and 9.0 quarts for 4MATIC all-wheel drive models. Using SAE 5W-30 viscosity oil with MB 229.51 specification provides optimal protection and efficiency under normal driving conditions.
2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo Inline-6 (M256.930) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – RWD | 10.0 qt (9.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – 4MATIC | 9.0 qt (8.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – RWD | 9.5 qt (9.0 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – 4MATIC | 8.5 qt (8.0 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Specification | MB 229.51 or MB 229.31 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22 lb-ft (30 N·m) |
| Oil Filter Torque | 18 lb-ft (25 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 256-184-00-00, Hengst B0166-B398785 |
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 requires 10.0 quarts of SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil for RWD models and 9.0 quarts for 4MATIC models. The M256 engine uses an electronic oil level sensor instead of a traditional dipstick.
2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo Inline-6 (M256.930) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – RWD | 10.0 qt (9.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – 4MATIC | 9.0 qt (8.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – RWD | 9.5 qt (9.0 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – 4MATIC | 8.5 qt (8.0 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Specification | MB 229.51 or MB 229.31 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22 lb-ft (30 N·m) |
| Oil Filter Torque | 18 lb-ft (25 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 256-184-00-00, Hengst B0166-B398785 |
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 requires full synthetic oil meeting MB 229.51 specification in SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade. Oil capacity varies by drivetrain configuration, with 4MATIC models requiring one quart less than rear-wheel drive models.
2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo Inline-6 (M256.930) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – RWD | 10.0 qt (9.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – 4MATIC | 9.0 qt (8.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – RWD | 9.5 qt (9.0 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – 4MATIC | 8.5 qt (8.0 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Specification | MB 229.51 or MB 229.31 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22 lb-ft (30 N·m) |
| Oil Filter Torque | 18 lb-ft (25 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 256-184-00-00, Hengst B0166-B398785 |
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 uses the M256.930 inline-6 turbo engine requiring SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 22 lb-ft and a new crush washer used at each oil change.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbo Inline-6 (M256.930) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – RWD | 10.0 qt (9.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) – 4MATIC | 9.0 qt (8.5 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – RWD | 9.5 qt (9.0 L) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) – 4MATIC | 8.5 qt (8.0 L) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 5W-30 |
| Oil Specification | MB 229.51 or MB 229.31 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22 lb-ft (30 N·m) |
| Oil Filter Torque | 18 lb-ft (25 N·m) |
| Recommended Filters | OEM 256-184-00-00, Hengst B0166-B398785 |
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 was the first model year for the C257 generation featuring the M256 turbocharged inline-6 engine. Synthetic oil change intervals are recommended at 7,500 to 10,000 miles depending on driving conditions.
Oil Maintenance and Service Tips
Checking Oil Level
The M256 engine does not have a traditional oil dipstick. Oil level is monitored through an electronic sensor in the oil pan and displayed on the instrument cluster. Check oil level when the engine is at operating temperature and the vehicle is on level ground.
Oil Change Procedure
Replace the drain plug crush washer at every oil change to prevent leaks. Torque the drain plug to 22 lb-ft and the oil filter housing to 18 lb-ft. Always use oil meeting MB 229.51 or MB 229.31 specification to maintain warranty coverage.
Driving Conditions
| Driving Condition | Oil Change Interval |
|---|---|
| Normal Driving | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months |
| Severe Driving | Every 7,500 miles or 12 months |
Severe driving conditions include frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, dusty conditions, or towing. Always use full synthetic oil with the correct MB specification regardless of driving conditions.
When exploring Mercedes-Benz, don’t miss our detailed guides on popular models like the Mercedes-Benz E 400, Mercedes-Benz E 350, Mercedes-Benz CLS 550, and Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG. Understanding engine oil capacity is crucial for proper maintenance, and our expert resources explain the exact oil requirements for these models. You’ll also find insights on recommended oil types, service intervals, and common issues linked to incorrect oil levels, ensuring your Mercedes-Benz always delivers reliable performance.
FAQs
What kind of oil does a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 use?
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 requires full synthetic motor oil meeting MB 229.51 or MB 229.31 specification. The recommended viscosity grade is SAE 5W-30 for optimal engine protection and fuel efficiency.
How much oil does a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 take?
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 takes 10.0 quarts with filter for rear-wheel drive models and 9.0 quarts with filter for 4MATIC all-wheel drive models. Capacity is measured in both US quarts and liters, with RWD requiring 9.5 liters and 4MATIC requiring 8.5 liters.
What is the recommended oil type for a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450?
Full synthetic oil is required for all Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 models. The oil must meet Mercedes-Benz MB 229.51 or MB 229.31 Low SAPS specification to protect the engine and emissions system.
What is the oil change interval for a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450?
Mercedes-Benz recommends changing oil every 10,000 miles or 12 months under normal driving conditions. For severe driving conditions including frequent short trips or extreme temperatures, reduce the interval to 7,500 miles.
What oil filter does a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 use?
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 uses OEM oil filter part number 256-184-00-00. Compatible aftermarket filters include Hengst part number B0166-B398785. The oil filter housing should be torqued to 18 lb-ft during installation.
Can I use 0W-30 oil in a Mercedes-Benz CLS 450?
SAE 0W-30 oil meeting MB 229.51 specification is acceptable for the CLS 450. Mercedes-Benz approves multiple viscosity grades including 0W-30, 5W-30, and 5W-40 that meet the MB 229.51 specification.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 requires 9.0 to 10.0 quarts of SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil depending on drivetrain configuration. Using oil that meets Mercedes-Benz MB 229.51 or MB 229.31 specification is essential for engine protection and maintaining warranty coverage. Following the recommended 10,000-mile oil change interval and using proper torque specifications ensures reliable performance and engine longevity.

