Mercedes-Benz CLS Differential Replacement Parts

The CLS W219 ran from 2004 to 2010, and the second-generation W218 launched in 2011, so a 2010 and a 2012 car sit in entirely different generations with different drivetrains. Even if the engine codes happen to match, crossing that W219-to-W218 boundary means the differential housings, ratios, and mounting points are likely incompatible. Always confirm against your exact registration and engine code with the breaker before purchasing.

The differential that fits your car follows the engine code and gearbox type, not the badge — a CLS 350 and a CLS 500 use entirely different engines and can carry different final-drive ratios, so they are not automatically interchangeable. Supply the breaker with your engine code (found on your V5 or via a VIN check) and your gearbox type to get a reliable match. Never assume a swap based on badge alone.

No, trim level does not affect differential fitment on the CLS — AMG Line is a styling and equipment package, not a mechanical variant, so it shares the same drivetrain components as the equivalent standard model. What matters is your engine code, fuel type, gearbox type, and production year within the generation. You may find cosmetic differences on ancillary brackets or covers between cars, but confirm any mounting details with the breaker against your registration.

The W218 generation ran from 2011 to 2018, with a facelift introduced in 2014, so both cars are within the same generation and share the same basic architecture. For cars with the same engine code and gearbox type, fitment is generally more likely within this generation boundary than across it, but whether a pre-facelift unit crosses to a post-facelift car without issue — particularly around any ancillary or mounting changes made at the 2014 refresh — is something you should confirm with the breaker against your exact registration.

Yes, gearbox type directly affects differential compatibility — the final-drive ratio and output flange arrangement can differ between gearbox variants, so a unit from a car with a different transmission type is unlikely to be a straightforward swap. Always tell the breaker your gearbox type as well as your engine code when requesting a quote. Fitting the wrong ratio can affect speedometer accuracy and drivability, so do not overlook this detail.

Both the 220d and 250d are diesel variants of the W218 generation, but they carry different engine codes and may have different gearing to suit their respective power outputs, so they are not guaranteed to be interchangeable. The engine code on your V5 or from a VIN check is the single most useful piece of information you can give a breaker when sourcing this part. Confirm compatibility with the breaker against both registration numbers before committing to a purchase.