Cheap Mercedes-Benz CLS Track Rod

Yes, the CLS is a rear-wheel-drive car (with 4MATIC all-wheel-drive available on some variants) and has a conventional steering rack with track rods connecting the rack to the front wheel hubs, so the part genuinely exists on this model. All engine variants of the CLS, from the entry-level diesels through to the AMG models, share this front steering arrangement. You will need one for either the nearside (NS, left) or offside (OS, right) depending on which side needs replacing.

The W219 and W218 are different generations with different front subframe and steering rack designs, so a track rod from a W219 is very unlikely to fit a W218. These two generations should be treated as separate when sourcing parts, and you should tell the breaker your exact generation — W219 or W218 — along with your registration. Never assume cross-generation interchangeability without the breaker confirming it against both vehicles.

For the CLS, engine size does not typically affect track rod fitment in the way it might influence brake components, as the steering geometry is determined by the platform and axle design rather than the engine fitted. Within a given generation — W219 (2004–2010) or W218 (2011–2018) — a diesel four-cylinder and a V8 petrol are expected to share the same track rod. That said, always confirm with the breaker against your registration to be certain, particularly for AMG variants which can carry specific front axle components.

The W218 received a facelift around 2014 with updated styling and interior changes, but steering and running gear components like the track rod were not significantly redesigned at that point. It is therefore likely that pre- and post-facelift W218 track rods are the same part, but because specific part interchangeability across a model update is something you must confirm rather than assume, you should check with the breaker against both registrations before purchasing. Quoting your exact registration to the breaker is the safest approach.

Trim level alone does not affect track rod fitment — AMG Line, Sport, and standard CLS models share the same basic front steering layout within a generation, so the track rod itself is not trim-specific. Cosmetically, a part pulled from any trim level will look identical in the relevant area. The generation (W219 or W218) and whether the car is standard or a full AMG model (with potentially different front axle specs) are the factors worth clarifying with the breaker.

Yes, track rods are side-specific — the nearside (NS, left-hand side as you sit in the car) and offside (OS, right-hand side) are mirror-image components and are not interchangeable. When contacting a breaker, state clearly which side you need alongside your registration and generation, as this will ensure they pull the correct part from the donor vehicle. Getting the side wrong means the part will not fit without modification, so double-check which side is worn or damaged before making enquiries.