Segment:
Entry-level luxury coupe/convertible
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Coupe, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Lexus SC 430, Cadillac XLR
Design Philosophy:
Combines sporty styling with Mercedes-Benz comfort, technology, and build quality.
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and performance-oriented coupe with a premium badge.
Vehicle Systems:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 300-400 pages (estimated based on typical Mercedes-Benz manuals of this era)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system
Chassis:
Brake system, steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Lighting system, battery, instrument cluster, infotainment system, climate control system, power accessories, safety restraint systems
Body:
Locks, security system, doors, windows, seating adjustments, interior features
Basic Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, operating climate controls, using the infotainment system, adjusting seats and mirrors, using lights and wipers
Maintenance:
Checking and topping up fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), checking tire pressure, replacing key fob battery, basic cleaning instructions
Safety Features:
Understanding airbag systems, seatbelt operation and adjustment, child seat installation (ISOFIX/LATCH system), emergency procedures
Troubleshooting Basic:
Understanding warning indicators on the instrument cluster, basic advice for minor issues
Depth:
Owner-level information focusing on operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not contain detailed repair procedures or diagnostic steps typically found in a service manual.
Required Software:
PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader)
Compatibility:
Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones)
Quality:
Digital copy, quality dependent on the original factory scan. Typically high resolution for readability.
Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4966 cc (5.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 84.0 mm
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 2700-4250 rpm
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)
Major Components:
Engine, battery, coolant reservoir, windshield washer fluid reservoir, brake fluid reservoir, air filter housing, oil filter housing, fuse box
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star Driver, 5-Star Passenger (for 2005 CLK models)
IIHS Crash Test:
Good (for frontal offset and side impact, depending on specific testing and year variations)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front window curtain airbags (standard on coupes)
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and belt force limiters, active front head restraints
Head Unit:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system (optional)
Navigation:
GPS Navigation system (optional, often with CD-ROM based maps)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with speed limiter
Parking Sensors:
PARKTRONIC parking assist system (optional)
Bluetooth:
UHI (Universal Hands-free Interface) for optional Bluetooth phone integration
Telematics:
Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid (subscription-based emergency and assistance service, optional)
Oil Change:
Variable, based on Mercedes-Benz Flexible Service System (FSS), typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first.
Major Service A:
First recommended around 10,000 miles or 1 year. Includes oil change, filter replacement, comprehensive inspection.
Major Service B:
First recommended around 20,000 miles or 2 years. Includes Service A items plus cabin filter, brake fluid check, more comprehensive inspections.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil, meeting MB 229.5 specification (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 U.S. quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 Antifreeze/Coolant (a 50/50 mix with distilled water is standard)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus Brake Fluid (MB 331.0)
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failure, mass airflow sensor issues, oil cooler gasket leaks, window regulator failures, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) issues (though CLK500 for 2005 might have been transitioning or had updated systems, check specific VIN), interior component wear (e.g., driver's seat bolster).
Air Filter Primary:
Likely A2030940104 or similar (verify with VIN)
Oil Filter:
Likely 1121800009 or 1121800109 (verify with VIN)
Cabin Filter:
Likely A2038300018 (check for activated carbon variant if applicable)
Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury.
Clk Class Development:
The CLK-Class was introduced as a more stylish and sporty alternative to the C-Class sedan, often sharing components with the E-Class.
C209 Generation:
The C209 generation (2003-2009) replaced the C208 CLK. The CLK500 model was a high-performance variant featuring the potent M113 V8 engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Sindelfingen plant)
