Market Position:
Premium luxury coupe and convertible segment, positioned as a stylish and performance-oriented grand tourer.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the BMW 6 Series (E63/E64), Audi A5, Lexus SC, and Cadillac XLR.
Key Features:
Powerful V8 engine, sophisticated ride and handling, high-quality interior, advanced safety features, and iconic Mercedes-Benz styling.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500 (W209 chassis).
Page Count:
Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for official Mercedes-Benz workshop manuals).
Manual Type:
Official Mercedes-Benz Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable digital format with searchable interface).
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical and electrical systems, transmission (5-speed automatic 5G-TRONIC), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes (including ABS/BAS/ESP), climate control (ACC), fuel system, exhaust system, body electrical, lighting, interior trim, safety systems (airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners), and more.
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, detailed diagnostic procedures, step-by-step repair instructions, component removal and installation, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides, specifications, torque values, and overhaul procedures.
Technical Depth:
Extremely high. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complex electronic diagnostics and full powertrain rebuilds. Includes specific Mercedes-Benz diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their resolution.
Diagnostic Tools Covered:
Procedures for using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools such as STAR Diagnosis (or equivalent early systems) for accessing fault codes and performing system tests.
File Format:
Proprietary Mercedes-Benz workshop software format (e.g., EPC, WIS/ASRA).
Print Quality:
N/A (Digital software format).
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital software format).
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital software format).
Operating System Compatibility:
Likely compatible with Windows operating systems of the period (e.g., Windows XP, Vista) and potentially newer versions depending on the software's architecture.
Primary Engine:
4.7L V8 SOHC (M113.969)
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Features:
Aluminum block and cylinder heads, overhead camshafts, dual ignition, Sequential Ignition Control (SEIC), catalytic converter.
Engine Oil Spec:
MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 liters (with filter)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with individual coil packs per spark plug (Dual ignition).
Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric cooling fan.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed automatic (5G-TRONIC, 722.6 series)
Optional Transmission:
N/A for CLK500 in 2003
Transmission Features:
TouchShift manual shifting, electronic control, adaptive shift programs.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
MB 236.14 (or equivalent for 722.6)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 liters (dry fill)
Length:
4637 mm (182.6 in)
Height:
1351 mm (53.2 in)
Wheelbase:
2713 mm (106.8 in)
Cargo Volume Coupe:
Approx. 370 liters (13.1 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Convertible:
Approx. 300 liters (10.6 cu ft) with roof up
Curb Weight Coupe:
Approx. 1675 kg (3693 lbs)
Curb Weight Convertible:
Approx. 1840 kg (4057 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2150 kg (4740 lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Not explicitly rated for this specific model year by NHTSA in readily available public records, but Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era generally performed well.
IIHS Crash Test Rating:
Not explicitly rated by IIHS for this specific model year in readily available public records.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (ASR), Bi-Xenon headlamps with automatic leveling.
Passive Features:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags (coupe), rollover protection system (convertible), seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters, crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, optional Bose sound system.
Driver Assistance:
Cruise control, optional parking assist, rain-sensing wipers.
Connectivity:
Keyless-Go (optional), integrated phone module (optional).
Lighting Technology:
Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering function and automatic leveling, LED taillights.
Service A Interval:
Approx. 10,000 miles or 12 months (indicative, refer to manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions).
Service B Interval:
Approx. 20,000 miles or 24 months (indicative, refer to manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions).
Coolant Spec:
MB 325.0 or 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0).
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
MB 236.3 (Hydraulic oil).
Common Issues Overview:
Potential issues can include, but are not limited to, aging electronic components (e.g., SAM units), CAN bus communication errors, evaporative emission system faults, early signs of oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil cooler seals, and wear on suspension bushings. The convertible top mechanism can also require maintenance over time.
Specific Issue Imsa:
Infotainment System Malfunctions (e.g., COMAND unit issues, speaker pops or failures, navigation system glitches).
Specific Issue Engine:
M113 engine generally robust, but potential for oil separator issues and ignition coil failures.
Maintenance Schedule Details
Maintenance Schedule Details:
The manual details specific checks and replacements at various mileage and time intervals, including spark plugs, air filters, cabin filters, brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, and drive belts. It also covers diagnostic checks of electronic systems.
Tire Size Front:
205/55 R16 (standard on some trims, 225/45 R17 optional).
Tire Size Rear:
205/55 R16 (standard on some trims, 245/40 R17 optional).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112 mm.
Spark Plug Type:
NGK Iridium (e.g., BKR6EIX-11) or equivalent OEM specification.
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, dating back to the late 19th century.
Model Evolution:
The W209 CLK-Class succeeded the W208 CLK-Class. The CLK500 represented a significant step up in performance and luxury from its predecessor, featuring the powerful M113 V8 engine.
Production Period:
The W209 CLK-Class was produced from 2002 to 2010. The CLK500 variant was available from 2003.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany.
Recognitions:
While specific awards for the 2003 CLK500 might be hard to pinpoint individually, the W209 CLK-Class generally received positive reviews for its design, comfort, and performance from automotive publications of the era.
Ratings:
Consistently rated highly for interior quality and driving dynamics within its segment.
