Rag top? shouldnt say words like that around us lol
Should I buy?
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 65
Likes: 0
From: alabama
1997 mercedes e300d
Should I buy?
I am considering buying a 2001 CLK 430 conv. The car has 20,000 on the odometer and the car is in great shape. I am concerned because the car only has 20,000 and has probably sat up in a garage or storage. I know dry rot is a concern, but the reliability is questionable as well. The seller wants $16,900. What concerns should I have and should I buy this car? It seems like a really good deal, almost too good.
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 502
Likes: 3
From: Bay Area
02 clk 55, 13 GL 450
"dry rot"????? it's not a boat! LOL. Verts are fair weather for the most part so I wouldnt sweat the mileage. Prices are in the toilet for these cars so bargains abound. Id say beat him down and enjoy the ride. Make sure to have the car cked though because it is a buyers market.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,435
Likes: 0
From: Nebraska
99CLK320,
VIN
If the car has been maintained by a MB dealer, ask the seller for the VIN, present that to the dealer and they will/should be able to give you a complete maintenance history. I personally wouldn't have a rag top. Look on this forum at the problems convertables have. With that said 20K is really low mileage. NADA.COM has clean-retail priced at $19,250. The seller is not asking too much.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,258
Likes: 209
From: Boston North Shore
2001 CLK320 Cabrio
When new, that model went for around $60,000 and has taken a massive deprecation hit and urther deprecation will be minor.
I've had my CLK320 cabrio since new and other then routine maintenance (e.g. tires, oil/filter and coolant changes), the only repair needed has been a mass air flow sensor.
If original, the tires and battery will probably need replacement. I would change the oil/filter (use Mobile 1 0W-40) and coolant (use only MB brand or Zerex G-05).
The only dry rot concern would be the tires.
My independent mechanic said that German rubber (e.g. serpentine belt, coolant hoses) is good stuff. I do use a good rubber protectant annually on the rubber seals associated with the roof.
IMHO, there might be some flexability on the asking price (but not much).
I've had my CLK320 cabrio since new and other then routine maintenance (e.g. tires, oil/filter and coolant changes), the only repair needed has been a mass air flow sensor.
If original, the tires and battery will probably need replacement. I would change the oil/filter (use Mobile 1 0W-40) and coolant (use only MB brand or Zerex G-05).
The only dry rot concern would be the tires.
My independent mechanic said that German rubber (e.g. serpentine belt, coolant hoses) is good stuff. I do use a good rubber protectant annually on the rubber seals associated with the roof.
IMHO, there might be some flexability on the asking price (but not much).
Newbie
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: Pleasanton CA
CLK430 CAB, CLK55 CAB, BMW 545i
I bought a W208, 2002, CLK55 AMG Cabrio 3 months ago, with 20,000 miles on it for $25,000. Paid too much? Not in my mind, it is essentally a new car. What else can you buy for $25,000, not much. It replaced a 2001 CLK430 Cabrio with 94,000 relatively trouble-free miles. I love cabs and coudn't be happier with my $25,000 CLK55 AMG. I say buy it and consider yourself lucky to have found it. Of course get a CarFax before handing the check over and if it is clear, enjoy the car. What else can you buy for $16-17,000? A Honda, UGH
Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 123
Likes: 1
From: Lake Havasu City, AZ
2016 E250 Bluetec 2002 CL55, 2000 430CLK Cab
I love 00 430 Cab and just keep it around for sunny days (Most of the time where I live) even though I drive a CL55 on a daily basis!
GO for it!!!
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Newbie
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: Minneapolis, MN
2003 CLK 430 Cabriolet
Ditto the above.
Bought a 2003 430 Cab last Fall and absolutely adore it. Car had 38K miles and is in nearly pristine condition. Paid $19K. I don't see how you could go wrong...
My advice would be to buy it and enjoy!
Bought a 2003 430 Cab last Fall and absolutely adore it. Car had 38K miles and is in nearly pristine condition. Paid $19K. I don't see how you could go wrong...
My advice would be to buy it and enjoy!
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