Used Mercedes-Benz CLS Headrest

The CLS comes in two main generations: the first-generation C219, which ran from 2004 to 2010, and the second-generation C218, which ran from 2011 to 2018 with a facelift around 2014. Headrests are generally interchangeable within the same generation, but crossing from a C219 to a C218 (or vice versa) is very unlikely to work due to differences in seat design and mounting. If you are looking at a part that spans the 2010–2011 generation boundary, confirm compatibility with the breaker against your registration before buying.

Both the 2013 and 2016 CLS belong to the second-generation C218, so there is a reasonable chance the headrests are compatible. However, the C218 received a facelift in 2014, which can bring subtle interior trim updates, so it is worth checking with the breaker whether the specific headrest from a 2013 car matches the post-facelift 2016 interior. Always confirm against your registration before purchasing.

Trim level can matter for CLS headrests because seat upholstery and style can vary between specifications — for example, standard cloth or leather seats may differ from AMG Sport or AMG Line seats in terms of headrest shape, stitching, or adjustment mechanism. The breaker should be able to match by trim or seat type as well as generation, so let them know your exact specification. A headrest from a different trim may physically fit but could look noticeably different to the rest of your interior.

Yes, front and rear headrests on the CLS are different parts and are not interchangeable with each other. When sourcing a used headrest, tell the breaker whether you need a front or rear headrest, and for the front seats also specify driver's side (OS) or passenger's side (NS) if the headrests differ between those positions. Matching the correct seat position ensures the headrest will fit and look correct.

Headrests are generally straightforward to swap — most simply pull upward out of guide sleeves in the seat and push back in — so fitting is usually something you can do yourself without specialist tools. However, if your seat has an active headrest system (which some CLS models feature as a whiplash safety device), it is worth confirming with the breaker that the replacement is the correct type for your seat. When in doubt, a trim specialist or breaker can carry out the swap quickly and at low cost.

It is very unlikely — the C219 (2004–2010) and C218 (2011–2018) have different seat designs, so headrest stalk diameters, spacing, and overall shape are expected to differ between generations. Parts from across this generation boundary should not be assumed interchangeable, and you should confirm with the breaker against your exact registration before purchasing. Sticking to a headrest sourced from the same generation as your car is strongly recommended.