Market Segment:
Entry-level luxury coupe, positioned as a stylish and performance-oriented offering within the Mercedes-Benz lineup.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Coupe, Audi A4 Cabriolet (though CLK is coupe-focused), Lexus SC300/SC430, Cadillac Eldorado.
Distinctive Features:
Elegant styling, powerful V8 engine (CLK430), sophisticated interior appointments, and Mercedes-Benz's reputation for quality and engineering.
Systems Covered:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving Operation, 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 Page Count:
Varies by specific factory issue, typically 300-400 pages
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Engine System Coverage:
Covers engine identification, basic operation, fluid levels, and routine checks.
Electrical System Coverage:
Details on instrument cluster indicators, lighting operation, and basic electrical features like locks and security.
Climate Control Coverage:
Explains operation of HVAC system, climate controls, and air conditioning.
Safety Restraint Coverage:
Information on airbags, seat belts, and child seat installation.
Basic Maintenance Procedures:
Covers checking and topping off essential fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, and basic cleaning.
Driving Operation Procedures:
Guidance on starting, driving, parking, and using various vehicle controls.
Security Operation Procedures:
Instructions for using the remote keyless entry, central locking, and immobilizer system.
Technical Depth:
Provides comprehensive operational and routine maintenance information for the owner. Does not delve into in-depth repair procedures or diagnostics typical of a service manual.
File Format Compatibility:
PDF 1.4 or higher, compatible with Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader, and most modern PDF viewers on all operating systems and devices.
Print Quality:
Digital PDF allows for high-resolution viewing and printing.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Type:
4.3L V8 SOHC
Horsepower:
275 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-40
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Air Filter Part Number:
A 208 094 00 04 (example, may vary)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 stars (Driver), 5 stars (Passenger)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (for its era)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front belt tensioners and force limiters.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bars (deploy automatically if rollover is detected).
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR)
Electronic Stability:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Brakes:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BAS).
Audio System:
Standard Mercedes-Benz Audio 10/20/30 with CD player, optional Bose sound system available.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (APS).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear park assist sensors.
Telematics:
No integrated smartphone connectivity (Bluetooth or USB) in the modern sense. May have provisions for early car phones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Recommended at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per service indicator, though some sources suggest more frequent changes.
Engine Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 3 years.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 Hydraulic Fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11 S)
Common Issues:
Mass airflow sensor (MAF) failure, ignition coil failure (M113 engine can be robust but subject to age), climate control module failure (SAM unit), window regulator issues, sunroof drain clogging leading to water ingress, valve cover gasket leaks, transmission conductor plate issues (common in 722.6).
Spark Plug Type:
Champion RE10PYP4 or NGK PFR52 or equivalent
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 (Blue coolant)
Brand History Summary:
Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, has a long-standing reputation for automotive innovation, luxury, and engineering excellence.
Clk Class Generation:
The CLK-Class (W208) was produced from 1997 to 2003, based on the C-Class platform. The CLK430 variant was introduced for the 1999 model year.
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany
Production Years For Model:
1998-2003 (W208 chassis)
Contemporary Reviews:
Often praised for its styling and performance, though criticized for a less refined ride and interior compared to some German rivals.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied by year and specific issue, generally moderate to good reliability for its class and era.
