Mercedes-Benz CLS Body Kit Installation Review
Service Price
$150+
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Before
After
Process photos
Mercedes-Benz CLS GT63 AMG body kit installation after accident repair. Cost starts $150+. Dramatic visual upgrade.
Mercedes-Benz CLS 400d Accident Repair with GT63 AMG Body Kit
A sudden accident left the front end of this Mercedes-Benz CLS 400d significantly damaged. The repair involved not just restoring the vehicle but enhancing its aesthetics with a GT63 AMG style body kit. This comprehensive service included replacing the damaged front bumper, realigning the license plate, and correcting the headlight position. This review details the process, costs, and outcomes of this specific body kit installation following an accident.
GT63 AMG Style Body Kit Features and Installation Process
The GT63 AMG style body kit is designed to replicate the aggressive and dynamic look of the actual GT63 model. It's crafted using precise scanning of the original vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit for the front lip, air ducts, and side profile. The kit aims to provide a seamless upgrade, making the CLS appear more sculpted and performance-oriented.
Installation process:
- Pre-painting: The new body kit components are first painted using high-quality paints that perfectly match the vehicle's original color code. This is done in a professional paint booth to ensure a flawless finish.
- Component Removal: The damaged original bumper and related parts are carefully removed. Protective masking is applied to prevent any scratches or damage to the surrounding areas of the car during the process.
- Body Kit Assembly and Installation: The newly painted GT63 style body kit parts are then precisely fitted and installed onto the CLS 400d, ensuring all mounting points align correctly.
- Final Checks: After installation, the license plate is mounted, and the headlights are adjusted to their correct positions. A final inspection ensures the entire front end looks cohesive and the new body kit is securely in place.
The result is a CLS 400d that looks completely transformed, with a front end that is both aggressive and elegantly styled, effectively erasing the signs of the previous accident.
Assessing the Value and Durability of a Body Kit
Body kit installations, especially those that double as accident repairs, offer a unique opportunity to not only restore a vehicle but also to enhance its appearance. The GT63 AMG style kit, in this case, provided a dramatic visual upgrade. While the specific cost for this repair in Korea was not detailed beyond the initial estimate of $150+ for basic parts, comprehensive body kit installations including painting and labor can range significantly. In the US, expect body kit installation costs to start around $150 for simple front lip additions, but full kits can easily run into thousands of dollars when factoring in parts, professional painting, and labor.
Durability is a key consideration. Kits made from materials like polyurethane tend to be more flexible and resistant to cracking than those made from fiberglass (FRP). Proper installation is crucial for longevity; a poorly fitted kit is more prone to damage. Maintenance typically involves regular cleaning and waxing, similar to the rest of the vehicle's paintwork. For owners considering a body kit, it's essential to weigh the aesthetic benefits against the cost and potential maintenance requirements. For those looking to significantly alter their CLS's appearance or repair significant damage with an upgraded look, a well-chosen and professionally installed body kit can be a worthwhile investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a body kit cost for a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
For basic additions like a front lip, expect costs to start around $150 in the US. Full body kit installations, including professional painting and labor, can range from several hundred to thousands of dollars.
Q. How long does body kit installation take on a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Installation time varies greatly depending on the complexity of the kit and whether painting is required. A simple front lip might take a few hours, while a full aero kit with custom paint could take several days.
Q. Is a body kit worth it for a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
A body kit is worth it if you prioritize a more aggressive or unique aesthetic for your CLS and are prepared for the associated costs and potential maintenance. It's an excellent way to personalize the vehicle's appearance.
Q. How is a body kit installed on a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Installation typically involves preparing and painting the kit components to match the vehicle's color. Then, the original parts are removed, and the new body kit pieces are carefully fitted and secured according to manufacturer specifications.
Q. What is the difference between FRP and polyurethane body kits for a Mercedes-Benz CLS?
Polyurethane kits are generally more flexible, impact-resistant, and less prone to cracking than FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) kits. For durability and ease of installation, polyurethane is often the preferred material.
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