Positioning:
The CLK320 (W208) was positioned by Mercedes-Benz as a stylish, sporty, yet comfortable coupe and convertible, bridging the gap between the C-Class and E-Class.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the BMW 3 Series Coupe (E46), Audi A4 Cabriolet, and Lexus SC300/400.
Design:
Distinctive styling with a rounded, aerodynamic profile, often praised for its elegant lines. Offered as both a fixed-head coupe and a soft-top convertible.
Powertrain:
Primarily featured the robust M112 3.2L V6 engine, known for its smooth power delivery and reliability.
Interior:
Luxurious interior appointments characteristic of Mercedes-Benz, with high-quality materials and comfortable seating.
Purpose:
To provide technicians and knowledgeable enthusiasts with the definitive guide for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the Mercedes-Benz CLK320 (W208) across its production lifespan.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of the M112 V6 engine.
Engine Electrical:
Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, ignition system, fuel injection system, sensors, actuators, and wiring diagrams.
Transmission Automatic:
Repair and maintenance of the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission (722.6).
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshafts, and CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake pads, rotors, calipers, and hydraulic lines.
Electrical System:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, wipers, horn, power accessories.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seat adjustments, convertible top mechanism (A208).
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant R134a.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system diagnostics.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, oxygen sensors (O2 sensors).
Airbags:
Airbag system components, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and inspections.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common problems and fault codes.
Repair And Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components.
Torque Specifications:
Crucial torque values for fasteners across all systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for certain procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical troubleshooting diagrams covering all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission overhauls.
Wheel Tire Specifications:
Information on tire sizes, inflation pressures, wheel specifications, and lug nut torque.
Paint And Body:
Specifications for body panel alignment, corrosion protection, and basic paint repair procedures.
Engine Type:
V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 3 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust)
Displacement:
3199 cc (3.2 Liters)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5750 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic ME 2.0 / ME 2.8 (depending on year/updates)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G48, typically blue or green)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Model Code:
722.6 (5G-TRONIC)
Optional Transmission:
None for CLK320 in North America.
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, torque converter lock-up, sequential shifting (Touchshift), Comfort/Sport modes.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10, MB 236.12, or MB 236.14 compatible fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 Liters (Dry fill, varies with torque converter)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (1998 model)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (1998 model, Coupe)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags (optional/standard depending on trim/year).
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Infotainment System:
Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system with CD player, optional navigation.
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park assist sensors available on later models.
Connectivity Options:
Early cellular phone integration via proprietary Mercedes-Benz systems.
Seats:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats.
Convertible Top:
Fully automatic, electro-hydraulic convertible top with power-operated rear quarter windows and heated rear glass.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific conditions).
Transmission Service Interval:
Typically every 40,000 - 60,000 miles (fluid and filter change).
Major Service A:
Includes oil/filter change, tire rotation, multipoint inspection. Typically at 10,000 mile intervals.
Major Service B:
Includes Service A plus cabin air filter, brake inspection, and other checks. Typically at 20,000 mile intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic (or MB 229.5 approved 0W-40 / 5W-40)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (with filter change)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 (ATF Dexron II/III compatible)
Common Issues List:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil failure, O2 sensor failures, crank position sensor failure, transmission conductor plate issues, window regulator failures, vacuum leaks, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) system issues (later models), rust (especially around wheel arches and sills).
