Positioning:
Premium segment luxury coupe and convertible, known for style, comfort, and performance.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Coupe/Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Lexus SC, Infiniti G35 Coupe
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, refined interior, sophisticated engineering, and characteristic Mercedes-Benz driving dynamics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair and maintenance guidance for owners looking to maintain or repair their vehicle themselves, potentially saving significant costs.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Lubrication, Cooling, Exhaust, Transmission (Automatic and Manual if applicable), Drivetrain, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic and ABS), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition, Lighting, Instrumentation, Switches, ECU, Body Control Modules, Infotainment, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Frame, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC System, Convertible Top Mechanism (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Diagnostics And Repair:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Component Testing
Technical Information:
Specifications, Torque Values, Alignment Data, Component Diagrams, Exploded Views
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers all aspects from routine maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval
Printability:
Printable, allowing users to create physical copies of specific sections or the entire manual.
Binding:
Digital (Not applicable for a downloadable PDF)
Paper Type:
Digital (Not applicable for a downloadable PDF)
Engine Options:
Likely includes variations of the M271 (1.8L Supercharged Inline-4), M112 (3.2L/3.7L V6), and M113 (4.3L/5.0L V8) engines depending on the specific model and market.
Performance Range:
Horsepower typically ranging from ~160 hp for the C180 Kompressor to ~306 hp for the CLK55 AMG, with torque figures commensurate with engine size and aspiration.
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch or Siemens engine management systems.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)
Transmission Type:
Likely 5-speed or 7-speed Automatic Transmission (7G-TRONIC) as standard on most models.
Transmission Type:
Some earlier models or specific variants might have offered a 6-speed manual transmission.
Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled with various shift modes (e.g., Comfort, Sport).
Length:
Approximately 4637 mm (182.6 in) for Coupe, 4672 mm (183.9 in) for Cabriolet.
Width:
Approximately 1741 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approximately 1410 mm (55.5 in) for Coupe, 1414 mm (55.7 in) for Cabriolet.
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 1500 kg (3307 lbs) to over 1700 kg (3748 lbs) depending on engine and body style.
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally performed well in safety tests, with specific ratings varying by model year and test methodology. Expect good frontal and side impact protection.
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Traction Control (ASR), Brake Assist (BAS), Bi-Xenon Headlights with Adaptive Lighting (optional)
Passive Safety:
Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain), pre-tensioning seatbelts, crumple zones, roll-over protection (for convertible models).
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, often featuring a prominent color display, CD player, radio, and optional navigation and phone integration.
Audio System:
Harman Kardon premium audio system available on higher trims or as an option.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional features included DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control, PARKTRONIC parking assist, and rain-sensing wipers.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling became more prevalent throughout this generation. Aux input for audio playback was also common.
Flexible Service System:
Utilizes the Mercedes-Benz 'Service A' and 'Service B' intervals, typically alternating every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. The manual will detail the exact schedule and required services for each interval.
Engine Oil:
Likely MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 specification synthetic oil (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-30 depending on engine and climate).
Transmission Fluid:
Specific MB Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) for the 7G-TRONIC or older automatic transmissions (e.g., MB 236.10, MB 236.12, MB 236.14). Manual transmission fluid specifications will also be detailed.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz approved G48 coolant or equivalent (typically a blue-green ethylene glycol based antifreeze).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid, meeting MB 331.0 specification.
Common Complaints:
Potential issues can include malfunctioning window regulators, 'SAM' unit (Signal Acquisition Module) electrical issues, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil cooler seals, timing chain wear on certain engines, and ABS sensor failures.
Preventative Maintenance Focus:
Regular inspection of suspension components, checking for oil and coolant leaks, and monitoring the health of the electrical system are key preventative measures.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety in the automotive industry.
Evolution C209:
The C209 CLK-Class replaced the C208 CLK and shared its platform with the W203 C-Class. It was available as a coupe and later a convertible (A209), offering a blend of sportiness and luxury. Facelifted models received updated styling and technology.
Production Period:
2002-2010 (with the 2003-2009 range covered by this manual).
Assembly Locations:
Primarily manufactured at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen, Germany.
Award Type:
While specific awards for the C209 CLK-Class might not be as broadly publicized as the S-Class or E-Class, it was generally well-received for its styling and driving experience, often featuring in 'best luxury car' lists from automotive publications.
Safety Awards:
Mercedes-Benz vehicles typically earn good safety ratings, reflecting the brand's commitment to occupant protection.
