Segment:
Entry-level luxury/mid-size coupe
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and performance-oriented coupe with Mercedes-Benz luxury and engineering.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Coupe, Audi A5, Lexus SC, Infiniti G37 Coupe
Design:
Elegant and timeless coupe styling, characteristic of Mercedes-Benz design language.
Powertrain:
Smooth V6 engine, refined automatic transmission, and Mercedes-Benz build quality.
Interior Comfort:
Luxurious materials, comfortable seating, and advanced features for its era.
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanation of engine components, operation, and monitoring systems.
Transmission Operation:
Information on automatic transmission features, modes (e.g., Comfort/Sport), and maintenance.
Braking System:
Covers ABS, Brake Assist, and general brake system operation and warnings.
Suspension Steering:
Overview of suspension and steering system functionalities.
Electrical Systems:
Includes details on lighting, wipers, windows, mirrors, and instrument cluster indicators.
Climate Control:
Operation of automatic climate control, A/C, and heating systems.
Infotainment Audio:
Operation of COMAND system (if equipped), radio, CD player, and speaker system.
Safety Restraints:
Detailed information on airbags, seatbelts, ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Driver Assistance:
Coverage of cruise control, ESP (Electronic Stability Program).
Interior Features:
Operation of power seats, memory functions, sunroof, interior lighting.
Exterior Features:
Operation of power mirrors, automatic headlamps, remote locking.
Dashboard Controls:
Identification and function of all dashboard switches, buttons, and indicators.
Instrument Cluster Warnings:
Explanation of all warning lamps and their meanings.
Fluid Checks:
Guidance on checking essential fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid).
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Information on the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and its operation.
Fueling Instructions:
Correct procedures for refueling the vehicle.
Key Remote Operation:
Instructions for using the electronic key and remote functions.
Emergency Procedures:
Guidance on emergency braking, starting with jumper cables, and tire changing.
Troubleshooting:
Basic troubleshooting tips for common vehicle issues.
Depth:
Covers everyday operation, basic maintenance, safety features, and troubleshooting for the owner.
Scope:
Owner-centric; does not delve into detailed mechanical repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in service manuals.
Engine Type:
3.5L V6 (M272 DE35)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
268 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm
Induction:
Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 (MB 229.5 Specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 US quarts (8.0 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent, 50/50 mix)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 US quarts (8.0 Liters)
Transmission Type:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Availability:
Standard across CLK350 Coupe models for 2008.
Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 134 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.5-8.5 US quarts (7.0-8.0 Liters) for a dry fill, refer to manual for specific refill quantity.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (standard)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard)
Brake Assist:
Brake Assist system (BAS) (standard)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on specific package).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Child Seats:
ISOFIX/LATCH child seat anchors in rear seats.
Comand System:
Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, featuring a central display for navigation, audio, climate, and vehicle settings.
Audio Options:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with speed limiter.
Parking Assist:
Optional front and rear PARKTRONIC parking sensors.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free communication system.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack for external media players.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, based on 'flexible' service intervals indicated by the vehicle's service indicator (ASSYST PLUS).
Major Service Points:
Major service points (e.g., spark plug replacement, transmission fluid service) are generally recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles, but specific intervals are detailed within the manual and on the vehicle's service indicator.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 PLUS (MB Spec 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Hydraulic fluid A (MB Spec 343.0)
M272 Engine Timing Chain Sprockets:
Potential wear on timing chain sprockets leading to rough idling or check engine lights due to faulty camshaft adjusters or timing chain stretch. (While this manual is for owners, it may mention general engine care that indirectly relates to preventing accelerated wear).
Transmission Shifting Issues:
Occasional reports of delayed shifting or harsh engagement, often related to transmission control module software or fluid degradation. (Owner's manual will advise on proper operation).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Regular replacement is crucial for air quality and HVAC performance. (Manual will guide on location and importance).
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Over a century of automotive innovation and luxury vehicle manufacturing.
Clk Series Origin:
The CLK-Class, introduced in 1997, served as Mercedes-Benz's mid-size coupe, bridging the gap between the C-Class and E-Class.
W209 Generation:
The W209 generation (2002-2009) succeeded the W208. The CLK350 was introduced for the 2006 model year, replacing the CLK320, and featured the new M272 V6 engine.
Manufacturing Plant:
Bremen, Germany
Production Years:
2002-2009 (W209 generation)
General Automotive Press:
The CLK-Class generally received positive reviews for its comfort, style, and refined driving experience from automotive publications.
Safety Ratings Summary:
Consistently high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its model year.
Brand Certification:
Manufactured under Mercedes-Benz's stringent quality control standards.