🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

CLK550

Year:

2009

Body Style:

Coupe / Cabriolet

Generation Code:

C209 (Facelift)

Chassis Code:

A209 (Cabriolet)

Engine Code Family:

M273

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2009 CLK550 represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the luxury grand tourer segment with a focus on performance and comfort. Positioned as a more sporting alternative to the E-Class coupe of the era, it competed with vehicles from BMW (6 Series), Audi (A5), and Jaguar (XK).

Competitive Analysis:

The CLK550, powered by a potent V8, offered strong acceleration and a refined driving experience. Its key differentiators included the Mercedes-Benz brand prestige, sophisticated interior appointments, and advanced safety features for its time.

Key Features:

Naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 engine, 7-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, luxurious interior materials, advanced infotainment options (for 2009), and Mercedes-Benz's renowned build quality and engineering.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All mechanical, electrical, body, and chassis systems.

Page Count:

Thousands of pages (typical for comprehensive dealer-level software).

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software.

Language:

English (Primary, licensed for North American market).

Format:

Software (digital access, likely requiring installation or online portal).

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (M273 E55 engine), Transmission (722.9 7G-TRONIC PLUS), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, ESP), HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (including CAN bus diagnostics), Body Control Modules (BCM), SRS (Airbag System), Infotainment, Lighting, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, routine checks, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, step-by-step repair instructions, component removal and installation, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, system schematics, software updates and coding, special tool requirements.

Technical Depth:

Dealer-level diagnostic and repair procedures, including advanced diagnostics, component-level troubleshooting, and complete system overhauls. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complex electronic module replacement and programming.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary Software / Digital.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format offers scalable resolution).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format).

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine:

M273 E55

Engine Type:

4.7L (4663cc) V8 SOHC 3 valves per cylinder (24 valves total)

Bore X Stroke:

92.9 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.7:1

Horsepower:

382 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

391 lb-ft @ 2800-4500 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC).

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended).

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz approved G48 Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent blue/green silicate-inhibited coolant).

Oil Type Specification:

MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40).

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-speed Automatic Transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS).

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for detailed ratios. Typically features a wide spread for efficiency and performance.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 134, Mobil ATF 134).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.0-9.0 liters for complete refill (check dipstick after filling).

Transmission Features:

Driver-selectable modes (Comfort, Sport), Manual Shift Mode (M) via steering wheel paddle shifters or shift lever, Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4661 mm (183.5 in)

Width:

Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in) (excluding mirrors)

Height:

Approx. 1404 mm (55.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2715 mm (106.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1700-1800 kg (3750-3970 lbs) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Refer to vehicle placard (typically around 2150 kg).

Towing Capacity:

Not Specified / Not Recommended for towing.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 435 liters (15.4 cu ft) for Coupe.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

5-Star (for models tested).

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Likely awarded Top Safety Pick for its model year, consistent with Mercedes-Benz safety reputation.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Lighting Features:

Bi-Xenon Headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags (dual-stage), Side airbags (front and rear), Curtain airbags (front), Active front head restraints (NECK-PRO), Front and rear crumple zones, Advanced body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with a 7-inch color display.

Audio Features:

AM/FM radio, CD player, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system, auxiliary audio input.

Navigation System:

Optional integrated GPS navigation system with DVD-ROM based maps.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional DISTRONIC (Adaptive Cruise Control), PARKTRONIC (Parking Assist).

Connectivity Features:

Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling.

Comfort Features:

Dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats (optional), power-adjustable front seats with memory, keyless-go ignition.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (as per Flexible Service System - ASSYST PLUS). Consult manual for specific ASSYST codes.

Major Service Intervals:

Examples include transmission fluid and filter change (every 40,000-60,000 miles), spark plugs (every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on type), coolant flush (every 5 years or 100,000 miles).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MB Specification 236.3 (ATF Dexron III or equivalent).

Coolant Type:

MB Specification 325.0 / 326.0 (G48 Antifreeze).

Common Issues:

Oil cooler seals (leaks), PCV valve system (can lead to rough idle or oil consumption), suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), early 7G-TRONIC transmission solenoids (in earlier builds, less common on facelift), balance shaft gear wear (on some M273 engines), HVAC blower motor resistor failure.

Diagnostic Tips:

The software is invaluable for diagnosing complex electronic issues, reading specific Mercedes-Benz DTCs, and performing system adaptations that are not possible with generic OBD-II scanners.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing legacy of engineering excellence, luxury, and safety dating back to the late 19th century. The brand is synonymous with innovation and premium automotive manufacturing.

Model Evolution:

The CLK (C209) generation, introduced in 2003, replaced the CLK (C208) and was based on the W203 C-Class platform. The 2009 model represents the facelifted version, offering updated styling, technology, and the more powerful 5.5L V8 engine option.

Production Period:

2003-2010 (C209 generation).

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2009 CLK550 might not be as widely publicized as individual accolades for the brand, Mercedes-Benz vehicles consistently receive high marks in quality, safety, and luxury from automotive publications and consumer surveys such as JD Power and Consumer Reports for the model years covered.

Jd Power Dependability Ratings:

Mercedes-Benz generally performs well in JD Power dependability studies, indicating good long-term reliability for its models, including the CLK class.

Certification:

Officially licensed by Mercedes-Benz, ensuring accuracy and completeness of diagnostic and repair information.