🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

CLK Class

Chassis Codes:

C209 (Coupe), A209 (Cabriolet)

Model Year:

2006

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Entry-level luxury coupe and convertible, positioned as a more affordable and youthful alternative to the E-Class, but with shared engineering and quality.

Competitors:

BMW 3 Series Coupe/Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Lexus SC, Infiniti G35 Coupe.

Styling:

Elegant and timeless design by Mercedes-Benz, emphasizing sportiness and comfort. Available in coupe and soft-top convertible (Cabriolet) body styles.

Powertrains:

Range of efficient yet powerful four-cylinder, V6, and V8 engines, known for refinement and durability.

Interior Quality:

Premium materials, excellent build quality, comfortable seating, and advanced features characteristic of the Mercedes-Benz brand.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Regions:

Global (primarily North America and Europe for documentation basis)

Covered Countries:

All markets where CLK C209/A209 were sold

Estimated Page Count:

2000+

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

File Format Description:

Downloadable PDF for instant access and compatibility across various devices. Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams, schematics, and text. Printable pages.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

All engine variants including M271 (1.8L Supercharged I4), M112 (2.6L V6, 3.2L V6), M272 (3.5L V6), M113 (5.0L V8), M273 (5.5L V8). Cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, exhaust system, emission controls.

Engine Electrical:

Engine control module (ECM/ME-SFI), ignition system, fuel pump, sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, knock, oxygen, MAP, MAF), actuators, starting system, charging system (alternator, starter).

Transmission Automatic:

5-speed (722.6) and 7-speed (722.9) NAG Viano/SLK, including electronic control module (ETC), valve body, torque converter, planetary gear sets, clutch packs, hydraulic circuits, and shift solenoid operation.

Transmission Manual:

Limited coverage, as manual transmissions were less common in North American CLK models, but general principles and clutch service would be included if applicable to specific markets.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings, propeller shaft, differential fluid specifications, and removal/installation procedures.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper overhaul, rotor replacement, pad replacement, parking brake system.

Suspension:

Front McPherson struts, multi-link rear suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars, wheel alignment specifications, component replacement.

Steering:

Rack and pinion steering, power steering system, hydraulic pump, steering column, steering linkage, steering fluid specifications, tie rod end replacement.

Electrical System Body:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay assignments, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power seats, central locking, mirrors, wipers, horn, interior and exterior lighting schematics.

Body And Frame:

Body construction, panel removal and installation (doors, hood, trunk, fenders), body repair (dents, rust), structural components, weatherstripping, door hinges, latches, alignment, and trim pieces.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, climate control module, refrigerant R134a, compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, cabin filter replacement, system diagnostics, refrigerant charging.

Infotainment And Navigation:

Audio system components, COMAND system (if equipped), navigation unit, speaker replacement, antenna system, troubleshooting infotainment issues.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, crash sensors, control module diagnostics, seat occupancy sensors, operation of passive safety features.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed service intervals for A and B services, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, transmission fluid changes, brake fluid flushes, coolant flushes.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

System-by-system troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, pinpoint tests, wiring diagram analysis for fault finding, common issues and their solutions.

Repair And Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation for all major systems (engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, body).

Engine Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, measurement of critical components (bearings, cylinder bores, valve guides), reassembly, and break-in procedures.

Transmission Rebuild:

Comprehensive instructions for automatic transmission disassembly, component identification, clutch pack/seal replacement, valve body servicing, torque converter replacement, and reassembly.

Brake System Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake fluid bleeding (conventional and pressure bleeding), ABS/ESP system diagnostics and bleeding, parking brake adjustment.

Electrical Component Replacement:

Headlight bulb replacement, taillight assembly replacement, battery replacement, starter motor, alternator, power window regulators, door lock actuators, radio/audio components.

Body Panel Alignment:

Guidance on adjusting door, hood, and trunk alignment for proper fit and sealing.

Lubrication Points:

Identification of all lubrication points and recommended lubricant types for hinges, linkages, and other moving parts.

Tightening Specifications:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners across all systems (engine, chassis, suspension, wheels).

Depth:

Factory-level detail, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complex engine and transmission overhauls, electronic diagnostics, and body repairs.

Diagnostic Tools:

While not specifying proprietary tools like STAR Diagnosis, it provides information on system operations and fault symptoms that would be interpreted by such tools, making it an invaluable companion.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, allowing for in-depth electrical troubleshooting and repair.

Special Tools:

Identifies any required special tools for specific repair procedures, enabling technicians to prepare adequately.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes And Displacements:

M271 (1.8L Supercharged Inline-4), M112 (2.6L & 3.2L V6), M272 (3.5L V6), M113 (5.0L V8), M273 (5.5L V8)

Clk350 (M272):

3.5L V6, 268 hp @ 6000 rpm, 258 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Clk500 (M113):

5.0L V8, 302 hp @ 5600 rpm, 339 lb-ft @ 2700 rpm

Clk280 (M112):

2.8L V6, 201 hp @ 5700 rpm, 200 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Clk320 (M112):

3.2L V6, 215 hp @ 5700 rpm, 221 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) or Direct Injection (DI) depending on engine variant.

Required Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Systems:

Catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, secondary air injection (on some variants), EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) on specific models.

🔧 Transmission

2006 Standard:

5-speed Automatic (722.6) for most V6 models. 7-speed Automatic (722.9) for CLK350 and CLK500.

2006 Optional:

None typically offered for the 2006 model year in most markets, RWD and AWD (4MATIC) configurations available.

Automatic Transmission Features:

TouchShift (manual shifting capability via selector lever), Comfort/Sport modes, electronic control.

Transmission Fluid Type 722.6:

MB 236.10 (e.g., Shell ATF 134, Pentosin ATF1)

Transmission Fluid Type 722.9:

MB 236.14 (e.g., Shell ATF 134 FE, Pentosin ATF1)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 7-9 liters for 722.6; 8-10 liters for 722.9 (dry fill, depends on torque converter).

📐 Dimensions

Length C209:

Approx. 4637 mm (182.6 in)

Width C209:

Approx. 1741 mm (68.5 in)

Height C209:

Approx. 1391 mm (54.8 in)

Length A209:

Approx. 4638 mm (182.6 in)

Width A209:

Approx. 1741 mm (68.5 in)

Height A209:

Approx. 1387 mm (54.6 in)

Trunk Volume C209:

Approx. 350 liters (12.4 cu ft)

Trunk Volume A209:

Approx. 270-300 liters (9.5-10.6 cu ft) with top up, reduced with top down.

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1500 - 1700 kg (3300 - 3750 lbs) depending on engine and options.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2715 mm (106.9 in)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112

Wheel Size Range:

16-18 inches (standard and optional)

Common Tire Sizes:

205/55R16, 225/45R17, 245/40R17 (front), 245/40R18, 255/35R18 (rear on some models)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Crash Test:

5-star (for vehicles of similar construction and era, typical for Mercedes-Benz)

NHTSA Front Passenger Crash Test:

5-star (for vehicles of similar construction and era, typical for Mercedes-Benz)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Good (for vehicles of similar construction and era, typical for Mercedes-Benz)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esp:

Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Traction Control

Brake Assist:

Brake Assist (BAS) system

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags, and optional head curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters, automatic height adjustment.

Rollover Protection:

Pop-up roll bars for A209 Cabriolet, integrated into the windshield frame and rear headrests.

💡 Technology Features

Comand System:

Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated navigation, CD player, radio, and display screen. Upgrades available for Bluetooth and iPod connectivity.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control with speed limiter function.

Parking Assist:

Optional Parktronic parking assist system (PTS).

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling (often requiring a separate cradle or adapter for specific phone models).

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control (THERMATIC or THERMOTRONIC).

Seating Options:

Power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated and ventilated front seats optional.

🔧 Maintenance

Service A Interval:

Typically around 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Includes oil and filter change, inspection of key components.

Service B Interval:

Typically around 20,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first, following Service A. Includes additional checks like cabin filter, brake fluid, and more comprehensive inspections.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by engine: M271 (approx. 60,000 miles), M112/M272 (approx. 100,000 miles for iridium plugs), M113/M273 (approx. 100,000 miles).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles, particularly for the 722.9 transmission. Critical for longevity.

Engine Oil Type:

Mobil 1 Formula M 5W-40 or equivalent meeting MB 229.5 specification for most engines.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Varies by engine: 5.5L (M271), 6.5L (M112/M272), 8.0L (M113/M273) approximately.

Coolant Type:

MB-approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Pentofrost G05 or equivalent meeting MB 325.0 specification).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB specification 331.0)

Common Problems M271 Engine:

Timing chain tensioner and guide wear (can lead to jumped timing), intake manifold runner flaps failure, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil cooler seals.

Common Problems M272 V6 Engine:

Balance shaft wear (leading to misfires and check engine light), intake manifold tumble flap actuator failure, cam adjuster solenoids (camshaft magnets) failure.

Common Problems 722.9 Transmission:

Valve body issues (solenoid failure), conductor plate failure, torque converter issues, slow or harsh shifting, 'limp mode'.

Common Problems Electrical:

SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) failures, window regulator failures, ABS/ESP sensor issues, CAN bus communication faults.

Common Problems Convertible Top:

Hydraulic pump failures, cylinder leaks, microswitch failures, canvas wear and seam separation.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz has a long and prestigious history of engineering excellence, safety innovation, and luxury vehicle production.

Clk Class Origin:

The C209 CLK Class debuted in 1997 as a successor to the E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet, bridging the gap between the C-Class and E-Class. It was based on the W203 C-Class platform for the second generation (C209/A209).

C209 A209 Generation:

The C209 coupe and A209 convertible were introduced in 2002 for the 2003 model year, receiving a facelift in 2005 for the 2006 model year, which included updated styling, engines, and technology.

Production Period:

2002-2010 (for the C209/A209 generation)

Manufacturing Plants:

Primarily manufactured at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Vehicles of this era generally received strong safety ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS, reflecting Mercedes-Benz's commitment to safety engineering.

Reliability Ratings:

While reliability can vary, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this period are generally considered well-built, with proactive maintenance being key to long-term dependability. Specific consumer reliability surveys of the CLK class would provide more granular detail.