Market Position:
The 2005 CLK-Class represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the mid-size luxury convertible/coupe segment, competing with vehicles like the BMW 3 Series convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet, and Lexus SC. It offered a blend of sporty driving dynamics with Mercedes-Benz comfort and build quality.
Competitive Analysis:
The CLK-Class of this generation (A209) was lauded for its sophisticated styling, comfortable ride, and refined interior. The Cabriolet version provided an engaging open-top driving experience, though often at a premium compared to coupe counterparts. The AMG variant offered significant performance upgrades.
Key Features:
Retractable hardtop (coupe version), power-operated soft top (cabriolet), advanced safety features (e.g., ESP, multiple airbags), COMAND infotainment system, luxurious interior appointments, powerful engine options.
Systems Covered:
Vehicle operation, controls, features, safety systems, basic maintenance, infotainment, comfort features, convertible top operation, emergency procedures.
Procedures Included:
Starting and driving, using the climate control system, operating the audio system, adjusting seats and mirrors, using the convertible top, checking fluid levels, changing tires, basic troubleshooting, understanding dashboard warning indicators.
Technical Depth:
Owner-level; focuses on safe and proper operation and basic user-maintainable items. Does not cover in-depth mechanical or electrical repair procedures (typically found in a Service Manual).
Engine Type Clk320:
3.2L V6 (M112)
Horsepower Clk320:
215 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque Clk320:
221 lb-ft @ 3000-4800 rpm
Engine Type Clk500:
5.0L V8 (M113)
Horsepower Clk500:
302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Clk500:
339 lb-ft @ 2700-4250 rpm
Engine Type Clk55 Amg:
5.4L V8 Supercharged (M113 ML55)
Horsepower Clk55 Amg:
362 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque Clk55 Amg:
376 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Control Unit:
ME 2.8 / ME 2.8.1 (Engine control system dependent on engine variant)
Transmission Type Clk320 Clk500:
5-speed Automatic (722.6 G-TRONIC)
Transmission Type Clk55 Amg:
5-speed AMG SpeedShift Automatic (722.6 G-TRONIC with manual shift mode)
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) standard on all models.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). Consult specific model documentation for exact fluid type and quantity.
Length:
~178.5 inches (4534 mm)
Width:
~68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
~53.8 inches (1366 mm)
Wheelbase:
~105.9 inches (2690 mm)
Curb Weight Clk320:
~3600-3750 lbs (1630-1700 kg) depending on options
Curb Weight Clk500:
~3750-3900 lbs (1700-1770 kg) depending on options
Curb Weight Clk55 Amg:
~3850-4000 lbs (1745-1815 kg) depending on options
Trunk Volume Cabriolet:
~8.3 cu ft (235 L) with top down (approximate, varies slightly with model)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (IIHS Frontal Offset Crash Test 2005 Model)
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
Good (IIHS Side Impact Crash Test 2005 Model)
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Traction Control (ASR), Brake Assist (BAS), Xenon Headlights with washers (optional/standard on AMG).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags (front), pop-up roll bar system (rear), seatbelt pretensioners, anti-pinch protection for windows and convertible top.
Infotainment System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Infotainment Features:
Radio, CD player, optional navigation system, optional Harman Kardon audio system, climate control integration, telephone preparation (optional).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror, parking sensors (optional).
Connectivity Options:
Early Bluetooth integration for mobile phones (optional), fiber optic bus for communication between modules.
Lighting Features:
Halogen projector headlights, optional Xenon headlights with dynamic range adjustment, front fog lamps, rear LED taillights.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Based on 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicators on the dashboard.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles (64,000 - 97,000 km), but often considered 'lifetime' by some sources. Consult a specialist or the manual for best practice.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40). Consult owner's manual for exact viscosity and approval number.
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant concentrate, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (e.g., MB 331.0 or equivalent).
Known Issues Common:
Convertible top hydraulic leaks, ABC suspension issues (on models equipped with Active Body Control), SRS warning light (due to seat occupancy sensor or wiring harness), blower motor resistor failure, electronic module failures (e.g., SAM unit), rust on wheel arches and door bottoms.
Engine Oil Filter Part Numbers:
Mann-Filter HU 721/3 x, Mahle OX 1040D (Examples, verify with specific VIN)
Cabin Air Filter Part Numbers:
Mann-Filter CUK 2447, Bosch 1 987 432 104 (Examples, verify with specific VIN)
Spark Plug Type Clk500:
NGK Iridium (e.g., BKR6EIX-11) or Champion (e.g., REA8MC).
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety, established over many decades of automotive production.
Model Evolution Clk Class
Model Evolution Clk Class:
The CLK-Class (C208/A209) was introduced as a more sporting and stylish alternative to the C-Class sedan, sharing its platform but featuring distinct coupe and convertible body styles. The second generation (A209) debuted in 2003 and received a facelift for the 2007 model year. The 2005 model represents the initial phase of the A209 generation.
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany
Production Years A209:
2003 - 2009
