Segment:
High-performance luxury convertible
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking performance, luxury, and open-air driving experience
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Porsche Boxster, Jaguar XK8 Convertible
Performance Focus:
AMG tuned V8 engine, sport-tuned suspension, high-performance braking
Convertible Experience:
Power-operated soft top, refined interior for open-air motoring
Brand Prestige:
Mercedes-Benz engineering and luxury
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel, oil, battery, air filter, cooling system
Chassis:
Brakes, steering, suspension (general operation, not repair)
Electrical Systems:
Lights, instrument cluster, locks, security, infotainment (basic operation)
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate controls, seating, power windows, convertible top operation
Driver Controls:
Steering wheel functions, shifter operation, pedal placement
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, driving techniques, parking
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure, basic cleaning
Safety:
Seat belt usage, airbag system explanation, child seat installation guidance
Emergency:
Warning lights interpretation, basic troubleshooting of minor issues
Diagnostics:
Interpretation of dashboard warning lights and indicators
Repair Procedures:
None (This is an Owner's Manual, not a Service Manual)
Technical Specifications Coverage:
Refill capacities, lubricant specifications, basic vehicle dimensions
Searchability:
Text-searchable within PDF reader
Printability:
Printable via PDF reader software
Software Requirement:
Requires PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader)
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with PC, Mac, tablets, and smartphones
Quality:
High-resolution digital reproduction of factory manual content
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star Driver, 5-Star Passenger (for similar 2002 CLK models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for similar 2002 CLK models)
Brakes:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), BAS (Brake Assist)
Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, pop-up roll bar system
Restraints:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, anti-whiplash head restraints
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system with CD player, AM/FM radio
Navigation:
Optional COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (THERMATIC or THERMOTRONIC)
Parking Assistance:
Optional Parktronic parking sensors
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control with speed limiter function
Phone Integration:
Optional Mercedes-Benz hands-free communication system (e.g., UHI base)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact conditions)
Major Service A:
Service A (Inspect, lubricate, check fluids, replace filters as needed) typically around 10,000 - 15,000 miles
Major Service B:
Service B (Includes Service A items plus more comprehensive checks and fluid changes) typically around 20,000 - 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 (MB 229.5 specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0 specification)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 Hydraulic Fluid
Common Wear Items:
Worn engine and transmission mounts, aging suspension bushings, convertible top hydraulic leaks, catalytic converter issues
Electrical Quirks:
Window regulator failures, SAM module issues (flickering lights, inoperative components)
Engine Maintenance:
Regular replacement of PCV valve, checking for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets
Manufacturer:
DaimlerChrysler AG
Parent Company Era:
Post-merger with Chrysler, prior to Daimler AG restructuring
Generation:
Second Generation CLK-Class (C209/A209)
Predecessor:
First Generation CLK-Class (C208/A208)
Variant Introduction:
CLK55 AMG variant introduced for the 2001 model year (coupe) and 2003 model year (cabriolet) based on C209 platform
Production Years For Model:
2002-2006 (Cabriolet)
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
Performance Awards:
While specific awards for the 2002 CLK55 AMG Cabriolet are less documented than general CLK-Class, AMG models consistently received praise for their blend of luxury and V8 performance from automotive publications.
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings for this era of Mercedes-Benz vehicles often highlighted strong performance but varied reliability compared to some Japanese competitors.
Emissions:
Complies with EPA and California LEV standards for the model year.
