Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Coupe/Convertible
Brand Perception:
Luxury, performance, engineering excellence.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Coupe/Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Lexus SC300/SC400.
Platform:
Based on the W208 chassis, shared with the C-Class sedan of the era.
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, comfortable luxury interior, strong V8 performance.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, timing, fuel injection, ignition, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.
Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission (722.6) service, repair, diagnostics, fluid replacement, control module.
Brakes:
ABS, ESP, brake system components, hydraulic lines, brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedure.
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse box locations, lighting, starter, alternator, battery, body control module (BCM).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, power steering system, steering wheel, column.
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, chassis alignment, corrosion prevention.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, climate control module, refrigerant handling, blower motor.
Restraints:
Airbag system, seatbelt mechanisms, SRS module diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), component testing procedures, diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component replacement, and adjustments.
Rebuild:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including specifications and tolerances.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approach to diagnosing common and uncommon problems with clear diagnostic trees.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Software Requirements:
PC Compatible (Windows OS recommended for optimal performance)
Searchability:
Likely includes a searchable index for quick access to information.
Print Options:
Printable sections for offline use.
File Size:
Variable, depending on installation requirements. Typically several hundred MB to over 1GB.
Type:
5-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission
Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts) for complete fill, ~4.5 liters (4.7 US quarts) for drain and fill.
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
4/5 stars (Driver), 4/5 stars (Passenger) (for MY 1999, similar for 2000)
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Brakes:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Assist (BAS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and force limiter equipped seatbelts.
Head Restraints:
Active head restraints (NECK-PRO) for front occupants.
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system available, CD player, AM/FM radio, cassette player.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system (APS 30).
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control (THERMATIC or THERMATIC with manual rear vents).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Lighting:
Xenon HID headlamps with automatic leveling and headlight washers available.
Telephony:
Optional hands-free telephone system with integrated car phone or Bluetooth adapter.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for specific ASSYST service indicators).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) or as indicated by the vehicle's service computer (ASSYST).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil meeting MB 229.5 specification.
Coolant:
Engine Coolant (Antifreeze) meeting MB 325.0 specification (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 specification brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Power Steering Fluid meeting MB 236.3 specification.
Common Problems:
Cracked vacuum lines, MAF sensor failure, electronic ignition module (EIS) issues, transmission conductor plate failure, rust around wheel wells and sills, headliner sagging, window regulator issues.
Maintenance Recommendations:
Regularly inspect and replace vacuum lines, keep MAF sensor clean, check for oil leaks, be aware of potential SRS warning light issues.
Manufacturer Founding:
1926 (Merger of Benz & Cie. and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft)
Brand Reputation:
Pioneers in automotive innovation, luxury, safety, and engineering.
Clk Introduction:
First generation CLK (W208) introduced in 1997.
Clk430 Introduction:
The CLK430 was introduced for the 1999 model year, replacing the CLK320 as the higher-performance V8 option.
Production Years:
1997-2002 (W208 generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (Sindelfingen plant)
