EuroTech430

Hello, I am somewhat new to Mercedes-Benz, but not really all that new to German vehicles. I am looking a purchasing a 2003 CLK500 with 80k miles. I am wondering what kind of services this car will be needing, as well as common issues.

Also what are some Mercedes modification websites? I seem to have trouble finding quality ones. I would like to lower it, add an exhaust, head and tail lights, as well as a very discreet set of bumpers and skirts. Nothing over the top. I would like to give it a VIP look.

Also is it really almost impossible to install an after-market deck in the vehicle? I have a nice touch screen I would like to put in.

Thanks

directordat

MAKE SURE YOU DONT HAVE THE OEM RADIATOR THAT CAUSES TRASMISSION PROBLEMS!

M-bENZ

If you could try to find the one with low miles and if you decide to buy that one make u sure have the extended warranty for the long runs.


Andy

EuroTech430

It will be a trade in, and I can pick it up for 13k, is that a decent price? I would rather have a 2002 CLK55 but it's too rare to find a good costing one.

Also how does a radiator cause transmission issues?

Supafly

rad hoses flow through transmission; hoses corrode; mixing coolant and trans oil; resulting in a transmission replacement costing almost as much as the purchase price of your vehicle.

EuroTech430

Jeez. I haven't heard of that one. Ill have to check it out.

SZMB

Take it to a dealer for inspection, ~$150; strongly recommended. At this mileage, the valve cover and the rear main seal are probably leaking. $300 for valve cover gasket and ~$1,000 for the rear main seal (part & labor at a good indy shop, not the dealer). Spark plugs and coolant need to be replaced soon. Shocks wearing out at 80k is also common. Also, I replaced the alternator at 80k mi due to worn out bearings.

M-bENZ

looks like you got all the answer you need. If u have to buy that car try to bring it down to 10K or 11K and thats it.

Andy

EuroTech430

Valve cover I believe is leaking slightly on the passenger side, driver side seems fine. I actually work at the used Benz dealership and we payed 13 for trade in, so thats as low as it will go. I just ask the question here because I would like answers from owners, not sellers. Tune up is always #1 with me, new plugs and what not, as well as a few flushes probably, tranny, coolant, and oil change.

How much of a PITA is it to replace a valve cover gasket? Since I can pay cost for the part it could save me some $$$.

Also, since I am looking to lower the vehicle, should I replace the shocks at the same time I put the springs on?

EuroTech430

Ball joints are probably a given to be replaced, but I can do those for cheap, and how much of a PITA is the alternator to swap out?