Model Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Common Engine Codes:
M111 (2.0L, 2.3L Supercharged), M112 (3.2L V6), M113 (4.3L V8)
Common Transmission Codes:
722.6 (5-speed Automatic)
Market Position:
The Mercedes-Benz CLK C208 series (1996-2002) represented a significant step in Mercedes-Benz's strategy to offer sportier, more youthful coupes and convertibles that bridged the gap between the C-Class and E-Class. It competed with vehicles like the BMW 3 Series Coupe and Audi A4 Cabriolet.
Competitive Analysis:
Positioned as a premium compact luxury coupe and convertible, the CLK C208 offered a blend of sporty styling, Mercedes-Benz build quality, and advanced technology for its era. Its success depended on appealing to a demographic seeking a stylish, performance-oriented vehicle from a reputable luxury brand.
Key Features:
Elegant coupe and cabriolet body styles, a range of refined inline-4, V6, and V8 engines, rear-wheel drive, Mercedes-Benz's renowned safety and build quality, optional all-wheel drive (4MATIC) on some variants, sophisticated interior appointments, and advanced features for its time such as stability control (ESP) and navigation systems.
Manual Value Proposition:
This comprehensive workshop manual is an indispensable resource for owners and independent workshops seeking to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot the Mercedes-Benz CLK C208. Its detailed, step-by-step instructions, extensive diagrams, and professional-level information ensure accurate and efficient work, saving significant costs compared to dealership servicing.
Body Styles Offered:
Coupe and Convertible (Cabriolet)
Coverage Areas:
North America, Europe, Global
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (Exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Full Service & Repair Workshop Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical (including timing, valve train, cooling, lubrication), Engine electrical (ignition, fuel injection, sensors), Transmission (automatic), Drivetrain (axles, driveshafts), Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Fuel system, Exhaust system, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), Electrical system (wiring diagrams, lighting, body electronics, power accessories), Body and frame, Interior trim, Body exterior, Diagnostic procedures, Troubleshooting.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Scheduled servicing, Troubleshooting of common and uncommon faults, Component removal and installation, Overhaul and rebuilding procedures, Diagnostic fault code interpretation, Electrical system repairs, Suspension and steering adjustments, Brake system servicing and repair, Air conditioning system servicing, Bodywork repairs, Interior trim removal and installation, Engine tuning and adjustments.
Technical Depth:
Professional level, covering detailed repair and overhaul procedures, advanced diagnostics, exploded diagrams, torque specifications, and specific tool requirements. Comparable to factory-issued workshop manuals used by dealership technicians.
Diagnostic Tools Covered:
Procedures for using OBD-II diagnostic tools, Mercedes-Benz STAR DIAGNOSIS system (though older variants likely covered), and basic multimeter testing are implicitly or explicitly detailed for troubleshooting.
Wiring Diagrams Availability:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, including engine control, lighting, power windows, climate control, and more, are a hallmark of factory-level repair manuals.
File Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Print Quality:
High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual. Contains detailed photos and diagrams.
Binding Type:
Digital Download (No physical binding)
Paper Type:
Digital (Not applicable)
Usability:
Can be used on multiple computers (Windows & MAC), no expiry date, no renewal fees, lifetime use.
Searchability:
PDF format allows for full text searching, enabling quick access to specific topics, components, or procedures.
Primary Engine 200 Kompressor:
M111.947 (2.0L Inline-4 Supercharged), 192 hp @ 5300 rpm, 200 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
Primary Engine 230 Kompressor:
M111.973 (2.3L Inline-4 Supercharged), 194 hp @ 5300 rpm, 207 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (US-spec 1999-2002)
Primary Engine 320:
M112.940 (3.2L V6), 215 hp @ 5700 rpm, 229 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Primary Engine 430:
M113.940 (4.3L V8), 275 hp @ 5750 rpm, 295 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Engine Management System:
ME-SFI (Motronic)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (available on select 4-cylinder models, less common)
Transmission Features:
Selectable driving modes (Economy/Sport), Electronic control with adaptive shifting logic.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Length:
Approx. 4,515 mm (177.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,710 mm (67.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,375 mm (54.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,715 mm (106.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Varies by model, approx. 1,500 - 1,700 kg (3,300 - 3,750 lbs)
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 420 liters (14.8 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Likely 4 or 5 stars (based on Mercedes-Benz's safety standards of the era, specific data for C208 may vary)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) (standard on most models), Traction Control System (ASR).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Side airbags, Seatbelt pretensioners, Crumple zones, Roll-over protection system (for convertible).
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Device) optional, featuring AM/FM radio, CD player, and optional navigation system. Basic cassette player with CD changer preparation was standard on lower trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, Rain-sensing wipers (optional), Parktronic parking assistance (optional).
Connectivity:
Limited by era, typically no Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Optional Mercedes-Benz phone cradle was available.
Lighting Options:
Halogen headlamps standard, optional Xenon headlamps with automatic leveling and headlamp washers.
Service Interval Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for model-specific variations. Uses Flexible Service System (ASSYST).
Service Interval Major Service:
Around 30,000 - 50,000 miles, includes spark plugs, air filters, cabin filters, and detailed inspection. Specifics vary by engine and ASSYST system.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SL or higher, ACEA A3/B3, MB 229.5 or MB 229.3 (e.g., 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic)
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based) or MB 326.0 (Propylene Glycol based) concentrate mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 hydraulic fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Known Issues Common:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil failures (especially on V6/V8), ABS/ESP module faults, blower motor resistor failure, serpentine belt tensioner wear, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing, sunroof drain clogging, convertible top hydraulic leaks or motor issues.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU 718/1 (or equivalent for specific engine)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter C 26 151 (or equivalent for specific engine)
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, is renowned for its engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation, setting benchmarks in the automotive industry for over a century.
Model Evolution:
The C208 CLK was introduced in 1996 as a successor to the E-Class Coupe (C124) and served as a more accessible, sportier alternative to the larger CL-Class. It was based on the W202 C-Class platform but featured unique styling and a range of more powerful engines. It was succeeded by the C209 CLK in 2003.
Production Years:
1996 - 2002
Production Locations:
Bremen, Germany
