need some info on the Mercedes CLK

[mobbin6]

Somebody school me on the older clk's, the W208 CLK(1998-2002). I looking to buy either a clk320 or a clk430. Now, this is the car that first got me to start loving german cars. I had seen one in Koln, Germany slammed on AMG wheels, and totally blacked out. The thing sounded amazing. Anyways, somebody tell me things I should know, such as what to look for when buying, and things I should be worried about.
Thanks,
Edris

[bugzy]

they updated the look i believe in 2001-2002

i believe they might have updated the motor in those same years to, but they are minor upgrades

either way, the CLK's a clean car

[mobbin6]

Thanks for the info Lon

I'm looking to go a clean route with the car. Nothing with too much bling or overdone, pretty much a oem+ look :D Something like this

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d84/etrain92688/benz.jpg


Now, if only I can find out how much maintenance this car will be, and what I need to look for when buying one :tup:

[SoCalClk]

Yo Mobbin,

What do you want to know about the W208 CLK? I have an '02 CLK 430, with the K3 and K4 option packages (Xenon lights and Heated Seats/Rear Sunshade packages).

The car is fast, and like a typical German V8, really shines on the top end, going from 60-60mph really quickly.

The car is sound mechanically, but you need to watch out for the MAF sensors and sometimes the AC on older models.

Hope this helps,
SoCalCLK

[SoCalClk]

Maintenance:

I take mine exclusively to the dealer. They do the service like this:

Service "A" = Oil Change, etc. for $175 Retail, and includes loaner car

Service "B" = Oil Change, Fluid top-off, etc. for $275 Retail, includes loaner

The only other frequent services are Brake Pads (every 30,000 miles) and Tires (I average 25,000).

Spark plugs, tranny fluid, coolant are all designed to go 100,000 miles.

[SoCalClk]

Nice CLK photo, BTW. I have the exact same rims and set-up, my color is black opal (charcoal grey/pearl).

The rims on that car are 18" AMG Monoblock II's.

[HP Autowerks]

The 208's are awesome, no major problems. Look for worn front lower control arm bushings, worn steering shock, worn steering drag link assembly. Check for exhaust leaks from the exhaust manifolds, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, and transmission fluid leak at the electrical connector. Service history is always a plus.
We've installed RENNtech software and carbon airbox on a handfull of 430's and 55's with good results.
Good luck!