Segment:
Entry-luxury convertible/coupe
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals seeking a stylish, comfortable, and well-engineered convertible with a focus on luxury and brand prestige.
Key Competitors:
• BMW 3 Series Convertible
• Audi A4 Cabriolet
• Lexus SC
• Infiniti G35 Coupe/Convertible
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, refined interior, comfortable ride, and strong Mercedes-Benz brand heritage.
Convertible Top Operation:
Fully automatic electro-hydraulic retractable hardtop (or fabric soft-top on some variants, though CLK350 typically had a fabric soft-top), offering coupe-like refinement when raised and open-air enjoyment when lowered.
Powertrain Systems:
Covers general information and basic checks related to the engine and its related systems (oil, fuel, air filter), though detailed diagnostic and repair procedures are typically found in a service manual.
Chassis Systems:
Includes information on driver controls, locks, security, and seating/restraint systems. Detailed brake, suspension, and steering system specifications are usually in a service manual.
Electrical Systems:
Covers instrument cluster, entertainment systems, and climate controls, providing operational guidance rather than detailed wiring diagrams or troubleshooting for electrical faults.
Body And Interior:
Details on interior controls, seating adjustments, safety restraints, and basic cleaning procedures for the interior and exterior. Does not cover body panel repair or replacement.
Basic Maintenance:
Details on checking and topping off fluids (engine oil, coolant, washer fluid), checking tire pressure, and understanding dashboard indicators. Includes general maintenance information and specifications.
Operation:
Comprehensive operational guidance for all vehicle systems, including climate control, infotainment, lighting, and driver assistance features.
Safety Features:
Explains the function and operation of all safety systems, including airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, and child seat installation guidelines.
Emergency Procedures:
May include basic information on tire changes or jump starting, but detailed emergency repair procedures are not typically covered.
Depth:
Operational and informational. Focuses on how to use and care for the vehicle, with specifications for routine maintenance. Does not provide detailed diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a factory service manual.
Engine Type:
3.5L V6, Naturally Aspirated
Horsepower:
268 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
258 lb-ft @ 3500-4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Valve Train:
4 valves per cylinder, Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset Moderate Overlap:
Good
Brake Assist System:
Brake Assist (BAS)
Traction Control:
Acceleration Skid Control (ASR)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection airbags (window airbags)
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with front belt force limiters and pretensioners, rear seat belts
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bars integrated behind rear headrests, deploy automatically in a rollover incident.
Head Unit:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Audio System:
Standard Mercedes-Benz audio system with CD player and AM/FM radio. Optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system integrated into the COMAND unit.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling (may require separate adapter depending on model year nuances and COMAND version).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors (front and rear).
Lighting Features:
Automatic headlights, front fog lamps, optional Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to Flexible Service System - ASSYST).
Major Service Interval:
Around 30,000 to 40,000 miles for comprehensive checks and replacements (e.g., spark plugs, cabin air filter).
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 Synthetic (or equivalent) meeting Mercedes-Benz Specification 229.5
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) specification 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (or Mercedes-Benz specification 331.0)
M272 Engine Balance Shaft Wear:
Certain M272 engines produced between 2004-2007 had issues with premature wear of the balance shaft timing gear, leading to check engine lights and rough running. While many 2006 models were produced before the main affected range, it's a potential concern.
Transmission Shifting Issues:
Some 7G-TRONIC transmissions could exhibit harsh shifting or occasional error messages, often resolved by software updates or fluid changes.
Cabriolet Top Hydraulics:
Potential for leaks or pump issues in the convertible top hydraulic system over time, requiring specialized service.
Interior Trim Wear:
Soft-touch interior coatings can become sticky or peel with age and exposure to heat. Regular cleaning and conditioning can help mitigate this.
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, is renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation in the automotive industry.
Previous Generation:
The first generation CLK (C208) was produced from 1997-2003. The C209/A209 generation introduced updated styling, new powertrains, and enhanced technology.
Facelift Introduction:
The C209/A209 CLK received a significant facelift in 2006, introducing revised exterior styling (e.g., new headlights, grille, bumpers), interior enhancements, and updated powertrain options, including the 3.5L V6 for the CLK350.
Production Period:
2003-2010 (C209 Coupe, A209 Cabriolet)
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The CLK-Class generally performed well in IIHS tests, often earning 'Good' ratings, contributing to its reputation for safety.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Consumer Reports reliability ratings for this era of Mercedes-Benz can be mixed, often below average compared to Japanese luxury brands, though specific model year variations exist. Maintenance is key.
Emissions Certification:
Meets U.S. EPA and California ARB emissions standards for the 2006 model year.