Market Position:
Premium personal luxury coupe/convertible, competing with models like BMW 6 Series, Audi A5, and Lexus SC.
Competitive Analysis:
The CLK320 (W209) offered a balance of performance, luxury, and Mercedes-Benz's renowned build quality. It was positioned as a more accessible entry into the luxury coupe market compared to the larger CL-Class.
Key Features:
Smooth V6 engine, comfortable ride, elegant styling, high-quality interior materials, advanced safety features for its era, available as coupe and cabriolet.
Coverage Areas:
Full vehicle service and repair
Page Count:
Extensive (Software-based, not a fixed page count)
Manual Type:
Official Licensed Service & Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Digital Download)
Licensing:
Officially Licensed
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Management (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain (RWD), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Electrical System (12V), Lighting, Body Control Modules (BCM), Climate Control (HVAC), Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels, Safety Systems (SRS Airbags), Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service & Repair, Brake System Service, Suspension & Steering Repair, Electrical Component Testing & Replacement, Bodywork Repair, Air Conditioning Service, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacement, Belt Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Diagnostic Tool Usage
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive - From basic maintenance and fluid checks to advanced diagnostics, component replacement, and complete rebuild procedures. Includes detailed torque specifications, electrical schematics, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers procedures and information for use with Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., Star Diagnosis, XENTRY) and general OBD-II scanners.
Vehicle Specific Coverage:
Explicitly covers the 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK320 (W209 chassis) with the M272.962 engine.
Transmission:
5-speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
Transmission:
N/A for CLK320 in 2005
Transmission Features:
Driver-adaptive with Comfort and Sport modes
Transmission Gear Ratios:
1st: 3.59, 2nd: 2.19, 3rd: 1.41, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.83, Reverse: 3.15
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
IIHS Front Offset Driver:
Acceptable
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS)
Passive Features:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front head protection airbags (optional), seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Device) with optional CD/DVD changer, navigation, radio, and cassette player.
Speaker System:
Standard 8-speaker system, optional Bose premium sound system.
Driver Assistance:
Cruise Control, Rain-sensing wipers, Optional: Bi-Xenon Headlights with cornering function.
Connectivity:
Optional Tele Aid emergency calling system, optional Bluetooth hands-free communication (often via cradle).
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control (THERMATIC)
Lighting:
Halogen projector headlamps, optional Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination.
Oil Change Interval:
Flexible, typically 10,000 miles or 1 year, based on Mercedes-Benz's 'Service A' and 'Service B' indicator system.
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to 'Service B' for spark plug replacement (approx. 100,000 miles), coolant flush, brake fluid change (every 2 years).
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Antifreeze/Coolant (MB 325.0 or MB 326.0)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF (MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 compliant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 Hydraulic Fluid
Known Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil cooler seals, potential for MAF sensor issues, E-Class (W211) / CLK (W209) balance shaft gear wear (M272 engine common issue though more prevalent in later M272 variants, early 3.2L M112 V6 in prior models had different issues), front suspension component wear (ball joints, control arms), window regulator failures, SRS module errors.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU 718/5x or Mahle OX 352/1 D
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter C 35185/1
Cabin Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter CU 2535
Front Tire Size:
205/55 R16 (standard)
Rear Tire Size:
225/50 R16 (standard)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112 mm
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and performance since its inception in 1926.
Model Evolution:
The W209 CLK-Class debuted for the 2003 model year, replacing the C208 CLK. It shared its platform with the W203 C-Class but featured a distinct, more elegant styling and a wider array of luxury amenities. The CLK320 was a key model in the lineup, offering the smooth V6 power.
Platform Sharing:
Shares platform components with the W203 C-Class but with a unique body and suspension tuning.
Production Years:
2003-2009 (for W209 chassis)
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
