Market Position:
Premium luxury coupe/convertible market. The CLK430 offered a balance of performance, luxury, and comfort, positioned below the flagship S-Class coupe but above the C-Class sedan.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the BMW 3 Series Coupe (E36/E46), Audi A5 (later model), Lexus SC, and Cadillac Eldorado. Known for its refined ride, powerful V8 engine, and Mercedes-Benz build quality.
Key Features:
Powerful V8 engine, comfortable and luxurious interior, advanced safety features for its era, stylish coupe and convertible body styles, sophisticated suspension tuning.
Coverage Areas:
Full service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance for 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK430 (W208 chassis).
Page Count:
N/A (Software - dynamic)
Manual Type:
Official Service & Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (likely CD-ROM or Downloadable)
License:
Officially Licensed
Systems Covered:
Engine (mechanical & electrical), Transmission (automatic), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Suspension (front & rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Drivetrain (RWD), Electrical System (lighting, power accessories, body control modules), HVAC System, Body & Chassis, Interior components, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine servicing, diagnostics, troubleshooting, step-by-step repair procedures, component removal and installation, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, exploded views, specifications and data, diagnostic procedures for specific fault codes.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to advanced engine and transmission diagnostics and repair. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Component Level Detail:
Detailed diagrams and procedures for engine components (crankshaft, pistons, valves, timing chain, oil pump, water pump), transmission overhaul, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension bushings, steering rack, and more.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Covers diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, use of Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS equivalent for the era), interpretation of fault codes (DTCs), and electrical troubleshooting using wiring diagrams.
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes comprehensive electrical schematics for all major systems, facilitating troubleshooting of complex electrical faults.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners in engine assembly, chassis, suspension, and drivetrain components.
Body And Interior:
Procedures for interior trim removal/installation, seat adjustment mechanisms, door panel removal, and body panel alignment.
Primary Engine:
4.3L V8 SOHC (M113.940)
Horsepower:
275 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic ME 2.1
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 92.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Engine Management:
CAN bus system
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic (MB Approved 229.5)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 3 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust).
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (5G-TRONIC)
Optional Transmission:
N/A for CLK430
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) - MB 236.10 or MB 236.12
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9.0 Liters (for full drain and fill)
Transmission Control:
Electronic control module (TCU) with driver-selectable modes (Comfort/Sport).
Length:
178.0 inches (4521 mm)
Width:
67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
54.2 inches (1377 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.9 inches (2715 mm)
Front Track:
58.3 inches (1481 mm)
Rear Track:
57.4 inches (1458 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.0 inches (127 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3600-3800 lbs (1630-1725 kg) depending on body style (coupe/convertible)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4500 lbs (2040 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 13.0 cu ft (Coupe)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
N/A specific rating, but designed to meet/exceed safety standards of the era.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (ASR).
Passive Features:
Front airbags, Side airbags, Seatbelt pretensioners, Crumple zones, Roll-over protection (for convertible).
Tire Size:
Typically 205/55R16 or 225/45R17 front and rear, depending on wheel option.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112
Infotainment System:
Becker Audio system with cassette and CD player. Optional navigation system (APS).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Rain-sensing wipers (optional), Xenon Headlights (optional).
Connectivity:
Limited by era; typically no Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory. Possibly provision for a CD changer.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (THERMATIC) or Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control (THERMOTRONIC) with recirculate, air quality sensors, and cabin filters.
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Multi-function display in instrument cluster for trip computer, service indicator (ASSYST), and warning lights.
Service Interval Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Service Interval Transmission Fluid:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Service Interval Coolant:
Replace coolant every 5 years or 100,000 miles (using MB Approved coolant).
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Coolant/Antifreeze (MB-Approval 325.0) - typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (MB Approved 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Power Steering Fluid (MB-Approval 343.0)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Total:
Approximately 10.0 Liters (includes torque converter)
Known Issues:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil failures, vacuum leaks, ABS/ESP module failures (common Mercedes-Benz issue of the era), OVP relay failures, climate control servo motor failures, convertible top hydraulic system leaks/failures, rust on fenders and wheel wells.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter HU 718/1 x, Mahle OX 170/1 D, Bosch 72319
Air Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter C35178, Mahle LX 340/1
Cabin Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter CU 2117, Mahle LAK 233
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing luxury, performance, and technologically advanced vehicles, renowned for engineering excellence and durability.
Model Evolution:
The W208 CLK generation was introduced in 1997, replacing the W202 C-Class based CLK. The CLK430 was introduced for the 1999 model year, featuring the larger M113 V8 engine previously found in the E430 and ML430.
Production Years:
1999-2003 (for W208 CLK430)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany
