Segment:
Entry-level luxury coupe/convertible (CLK-Class was positioned below the E-Class coupe).
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a blend of sporty performance, refined comfort, and Mercedes-Benz quality.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Coupe, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Lexus SC300/SC430.
Styling:
Elegant and timeless coupe and convertible styling, derived from the W202 C-Class platform but with a more distinct character.
Powertrain:
Smooth and potent V6 engine, refined automatic transmission, and characteristic Mercedes-Benz ride comfort.
Interior Quality:
Premium materials, solid construction, and comfortable, supportive seating.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, and repair procedures for the M112 V6 engine.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (ME 2.8), ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, and ECU diagnostics.
Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission (722.6 '7G-TRONIC' predecessor), operation, diagnosis, overhaul, and fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshafts, and CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, and related components.
Brakes:
Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), brake calipers, rotors, pads, hydraulic system, and parking brake.
Electrical System:
12V battery system, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, lighting system, and wiring diagrams.
Comfort Systems:
Climate control (HVAC), power windows, power seats, central locking, sunroof, and interior electronics.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, trim, glass replacement, and underbody protection.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, and belt inspections.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, utilizing diagnostic codes and symptom analysis.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major components such as alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, sensors, and brake components.
Engine Rebuild:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures, including torque specifications.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling the automatic transmission.
Electrical Component Repair:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for electrical faults, and repair procedures for modules, switches, and motors.
Body Repair:
Procedures for dent repair, panel replacement, door and lock mechanism repair, and glass replacement.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete component rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
References and procedures for using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic equipment (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS systems) and interpreting diagnostic codes (DTCs).
Specifications Detail:
Includes detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical schematics.
Configuration:
45-degree V6
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valvetrain:
Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) per bank, 3 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5700 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3000-4500 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI), Bosch ME 2.8 Engine Control Module.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended).
Emission Controls:
Three-way catalytic converters, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) compliance.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
Five-star rating (driver and passenger) from NHTSA for earlier W208 models.
IIHS Ratings:
Generally rated 'Good' in frontal offset tests by IIHS.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) integrated with ESP.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, and optional front head-thorax airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bars integrated behind the rear headrests for convertible models.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Refer to flexible service indicator (FSI) or specific interval based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 20,000 miles, replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 40,000 miles or sooner if driving in dusty conditions.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Inspect annually, replace approximately every 20,000 miles or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum or Iridium spark plugs typically have a service interval of 100,000 miles. Use OE specified plugs (e.g., NGK PFR5G-11 or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 50,000-80,000 miles, or as indicated by the manual's specific service plan. This is crucial for the longevity of the 722.6 transmission.
Engine Oil:
API SN/SP, ACEA A3/B4, MB-Approval 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol EDGE 0W-40). Capacity: approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters).
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 (Blue/Green color) or 326.0 (Concentrate) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: approx. 10.6 quarts (10.0 liters).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Specification 236.3 (typically Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Ignition Coil Failure:
Individual ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires and rough running. The M112 engine uses coil-on-plug ignition.
Mass Airflow Sensor:
MAFS can become dirty or fail, affecting engine performance and fuel economy.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can cause the engine to stall or prevent it from starting.
Transmission Conductor Plate:
The conductor plate in the 722.6 transmission is a common failure point, affecting gear shifting and sometimes causing limp-home mode.
Headlight Alignment Motors:
Electric motors for headlight leveling can fail, requiring replacement.
Window Regulator Failure:
Power window regulators can fail over time.
Rust Progression:
While generally well-protected, older Mercedes models can be susceptible to rust in wheel arches, door bottoms, and near the sunroof seal.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and durability since its inception.
Clk Class Introduction:
The CLK-Class was introduced in 1997 as a mid-size coupe and convertible, positioned between the C-Class and E-Class. The W208 generation (1997-2003) replaced the E-Class Coupe (C124) and was based on the W202 C-Class platform, but featured a distinct E-Class inspired exterior styling.
Clk320 Introduction:
The CLK320 variant was introduced in 1997, featuring the new M112 V6 engine starting with the 1998 model year in some markets, and becoming a primary offering for 2000.
Production Years:
W208 CLK-Class produced from 1997 to 2003. The CLK320 was a significant model throughout this period.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Germany.
Automobile Magazine All Stars:
The CLK-Class (including CLK320) was often recognized as an 'All-Star' by Automobile Magazine for its blend of performance, styling, and value within its segment during its production run.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by year and specific components. While often praised for build quality, certain electronic components and the transmission could be points of concern in later years if not properly maintained.
Manufacturer Certification:
Officially licensed by Mercedes-Benz, indicating authenticity and adherence to manufacturer standards for repair information.