Market Position:
The 2002 CLK-Class represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the mid-size luxury coupe and convertible market, blending performance, comfort, and sophisticated styling. The CLK430 offered a potent V8, while the CLK55 AMG provided exhilarating performance from a handcrafted AMG engine.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the BMW 3 Series Coupe, Audi A4 Cabriolet, and Lexus SC models, offering a distinct blend of German engineering and luxury amenities.
Key Features:
Distinctive styling, comfortable and well-appointed interior, powerful engine options, advanced safety features for its time, and the quality expected of a Mercedes-Benz.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain, Chassis, Body, Electrical, HVAC, Infotainment, Safety Systems, Maintenance Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Specifications
Page Count:
Approximately 400-600 pages (estimated based on typical Mercedes-Benz manuals for this era)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual / User Manual
Engine Management:
Detailed explanation of engine functions, basic diagnostics, component identification, fluid capacities and types.
Transmission System:
Operation of automatic transmission, gear selection, basic maintenance (fluid checks/changes), and troubleshooting.
Brakes And Suspension:
Overview of braking system (ABS, BAS), suspension components, tire pressure monitoring, and wheel/tire specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Fuse box locations and assignments, lighting system operation, battery care, basic electrical component identification.
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control operation, seat adjustment, power windows/locks, convertible top operation (if applicable), sound system overview.
Safety And Security:
Airbag system operation, seat belt usage, child seat installation, anti-theft system explanation, emergency procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter change intervals, coolant checks, brake fluid checks, tire rotation guidance, windshield wiper blade replacement.
Tire And Wheel Care:
Correct tire pressures, recommended tire sizes, wheel bolt torque specifications, wheel changing procedure.
Fluid Level Checks:
Detailed instructions on checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels.
Lighting Adjustment:
Headlight aim adjustment guidance (if user adjustable), bulb replacement procedures for common lights.
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting instructions, procedures for flat tires, warning lights and their meaning, emergency contact information.
Technical Depth:
Focuses on user operation, basic maintenance, and everyday care. Does not typically include detailed repair procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), or complete component overhaul instructions which are found in service manuals.
File Format:
Physical Printed Document
Print Quality:
High-quality paper, professional printing with clear diagrams and legible text.
Binding Type:
Stapled or Perfect Bound Paperback
Paper Type:
Durable, matte finish paper suitable for frequent handling in automotive environments.
Engine Description Clk430:
4.3L V8 SOHC (M113 E43)
Horsepower Clk430:
275 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque Clk430:
295 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Engine Description Clk55 Amg:
5.4L V8 SOHC (M113 E55) - AMG Tuned
Horsepower Clk55 Amg:
342 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque Clk55 Amg:
376 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Fuel System:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) with multi-port injection.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 Specification (typically a G48 type ethylene glycol coolant)
Engine Oil Capacity Clk430:
Approximately 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity Clk55 Amg:
Approximately 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 Specification (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 5W-40)
Transmission Type Clk430:
5-speed Automatic (722.6)
Transmission Type Clk55 Amg:
5-speed Automatic AMG Speedshift (722.6) with manual mode
Optional Transmission:
N/A for this model year and variants.
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, multiple shift modes (Comfort/Sport), torque converter lock-up.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.10 Specification (e.g., Shell ATF 134, Fuchs Titan ATF 4134)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8-9 US quarts (7.5-8.5 liters) for a complete fill, but check level via dipstick after refill.
Length:
Approximately 184.2 inches (4680 mm)
Width:
Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approximately 54.6 inches (1387 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 105.9 inches (2690 mm)
Curb Weight Clk430:
Approximately 3616 lbs (1640 kg)
Curb Weight Clk55 Amg:
Approximately 3704 lbs (1680 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 13.2 cubic feet (373 liters)
Tire Size Clk430:
Front: 225/45R17, Rear: 245/40R17
Tire Size Clk55 Amg:
Front: 225/40R18, Rear: 255/35R18
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112 mm
Wheel Offset:
Refer to specific vehicle VIN or wheel type for exact offset (ET).
NHTSA Ratings:
While specific 2002 CLK-Class NHTSA ratings are not readily available, vehicles of this era from Mercedes-Benz generally performed well in crash tests, focusing on occupant protection. Expect 4 or 5-star ratings in relevant categories for frontal and side impacts.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (ASR).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, seat-belt pre-tensioners, active head restraints (NECK-PRO), reinforced body structure.
Security Features:
Remote keyless entry, immobilizer, anti-theft alarm system.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, optional CD changer, premium sound systems (e.g., Bose).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, optional Rain-Sensing Wipers, optional Xenon Headlights with Auto-Leveling and Washer System.
Connectivity Features:
No modern smartphone integration (Bluetooth typically limited to phone calls if equipped). Primarily focused on internal systems.
Service A Interval:
Approximately every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. (Involves oil and filter change, tire rotation, comprehensive inspection).
Service B Interval:
Approximately every 20,000 miles or 24 months (or after two 'A' services). Includes 'A' service items plus cabin filter replacement, brake fluid flush every two years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 100,000 miles for V8 engines (refer to specific service bulletin or dealer recommendation).
Transmission Service Interval:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles for optimal longevity (fluid and filter replacement).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0 Specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent approved hydraulic fluid (MB 343.0 Specification)
Known Issues Common:
Sagging headliner, power seat module failure, window regulator issues, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and rear main seal, catalytic converter failure, blower motor resistor failure, ignition coil issues.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU 718/1 (or equivalent OEM)
Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter CU 25 010 (or equivalent OEM)
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety innovation, and luxury automotive manufacturing dating back to the late 19th century.
Model Evolution:
The CLK-Class (C208) was introduced in 1997 as a coupe and convertible based on the C-Class platform, replacing the E-Class coupe. The 2002 model year represented a facelift (introduced in late 2001) featuring updated styling, including clear-lens headlamps and taillamps, new bumpers, and revised interior trim.
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany
Production Years C208:
1997-2003
