W209 - Things You Must Have
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Super Member
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 725
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From: Orlando, FL.
2005 CLK500
W209 - Things You Must Have
You can add to this list if you want, but there's tons of questions as to modifications coming in constantly on this subject, and since I got my car there was always me lurking around for ideas, input, etc. So I decided to put together a "key" for new owners and/or member to peek at. I'm sure you'll all have your own pitching in, so go for it. This is from my opinion.
Exterior Modifications (Cosmetic):
AMG Styling Kit (Includes Front Bumper, Rear Bumper, Side Skirts): Most 500/550/55/63 CLK's will be equipped with this package from the factory. 350/320/240 owners will be lucky to have this on their cars originally. You can also opt for a Brabus Kit for a similar look with slight differences at similar pricing. **Do Not Expect Cheap**
Bi-Xenon Headlights: Let's get on our serious tone of voice and discuss how good the halogens really look... okay all set.
Rear AMG/Black Series Lip Spoiler (trunk): This little guy will set off the car very well and make a huge difference from the flat trunk look. Whether you go with a normal AMG style or a Black Series Lip Spoiler, that's your call. Most BS lips you'll see will be carbon fiber also.
Front Lip Spoiler: Unless you're running a Brabus bumper (because everyone knows the sex appeal it contains in itself) this visual lowering edgey object being added to your AMG bumper will turn the car from looking like a CLK, to looking like a more aggressive CLK. You'll find the majority if not all will be carbon fiber. You can purchase a Euroteck lip or go with the eBay route (highly suggested for penny saving) and bolt it right up. Non AMG bumpers will require modification and lengthier installations.
Window Tint: Because your parents made you but don't want to see your face when you're taking out their ride for the weekend without their permission, or something like it... window tint is self explanatory isn't it?
Suspension and Wheels:
AMG or Aftermarket Wheels: No smaller than 18" no bigger than 19" and if you're slick enough and don't wear tall tee's you can possibly run a 20" wheel. So many classifications here so let's cut to the chase. If you're in a 350 or less trim CLK, most case scenarios is that the factory loves dressing these cars with low appeal rim packages. Upgrade! AMG replicas can be had for under $800 per set in 19" and 18" applications. Do yourself a favor and pretty up your car, staggered fitment. 8-8.5" width in the front and 9-10" in the rear. Most owners run 8.5 F and 9.5 R fitment. And yes you can contact me if you need suggesstions and feedback.
Lowering Springs: Because Mercedes made our cars with 4x4 suspension, this is crucial. Get your car a little lower, close your wheel gap up a little, feel the car handle and lean less into and out of turns. And most of all, just look at lowered W209s compared to stock height. Covered.
AMG or Aftermarket Struts/Coilovers: Listen, coilovers are not for everyone. Hell they're not even for 90% of Mercedes owners. We don't get to run the cool lowering links like S/SL/CL owners do, so we can use coilovers for adjustable suspension. THESE THINGS MAKE BUMPS FEEL LIKE BRICKS. Alternative? Struts. You can run AMG struts from the 55 or go for something like a Koni setup. This will stiffen your suspension while maintaining a lesser harsh setup. It also helps on the run life of your springs that you would have gotten by reading this in order
Wheel Spacers: Again this is a personal preference. Let's just leave this one out and keep it short on description, they're for the people who like a wide look, a full wheel well, an aggressive appeal. If you need advice on this just message me.
Interior Modifications:
Summing up this whole category with one word. YOU. This is completely up to you. Mercedes did a great job with our cars on the interior, no matter the trim. I'll list out some things people have done.
Steering Wheel (Black Series, Etc.)
Shift Knob (Though Our Cars are Auto in most cases, Brabus, BS, etc.)
Paddle Shifters (Easier for 500 and up owners, difficult otherwise)
Satellite Radio (so you can listen to Lady Gaga's quest to ruin music 24/7)
Alcantara Trim/Roof (not as easy as it seems)
Carbon Fiber Interior (because having a woodie doesn't generally relate to our cars)
Illuminated Door Kick Plates (rare, but subtle)
LED Light Bulbs (oh you fancy huh?)
Performance Upgrades:
Custom / Aftermarket / AMG Exhaust: One of the first thing people go for on these cars, especially the V8 209. Hint: Having an exhaust on a V8 Mercedes will be the most raw and addictive sound on the road. Your choices are not limited at all. Most owners go with a custom setup from their preferred shop rather than purchasing an exhaust system from a company with inflated pricing. Dual, Quads, Single Tip, It's all been done, and there is no right and no wrong choice. Quad tip choice requires the proper bumper, or bumper cutout, or diffuser.
***There are not really any NEED TO HAVE performance upgrades, it's all based on the owner. Of course suspension has to fit into the performance category also, but here's a few recommendations also***
Tune: Everyone at one point in their life goes go this little bubble we call GOOGLE and types in "Mercedes Tune." Do you know what you're even looking for? Most good tunes come from performance shops, race shops, people working out of their garage. Chip? Sounds like something I eat, not something I trust. There are a few vendors here and you're lucky enough to know they will take your computer and reflash it to max performance spec. There are also people out in the world who have the proper software to plug into your car and retune the mechanics of it that way.
Intake: Look, a cold air intake is not something we need on our cars. Some people however opt for the AMG engine covers or the RennTech air box. Both will provide marginal difference to your car's breathing capabilities, but really you're not looking at large power gains.
Headers: Eh. A huge personal preference. Mercedes makes their vehicles very capable of performing, this isn't really necessary but can be added of course.
Underdrive Pulleys: While the thought of having a huge mod list is beautiful in your mind, pulleys are actually a modification worth mentioning. While they may not add the highest ratings to your vehicles performance, they do supply aid to the engine. I suggest Evosport personally.
Okay I need to stop there for now. Add away, I need to get back to work for a few! I'll update the original post as I go, and if you have any suggestions I'll add them in also. Hope this helps!
Exterior Modifications (Cosmetic):
AMG Styling Kit (Includes Front Bumper, Rear Bumper, Side Skirts): Most 500/550/55/63 CLK's will be equipped with this package from the factory. 350/320/240 owners will be lucky to have this on their cars originally. You can also opt for a Brabus Kit for a similar look with slight differences at similar pricing. **Do Not Expect Cheap**
Bi-Xenon Headlights: Let's get on our serious tone of voice and discuss how good the halogens really look... okay all set.
Rear AMG/Black Series Lip Spoiler (trunk): This little guy will set off the car very well and make a huge difference from the flat trunk look. Whether you go with a normal AMG style or a Black Series Lip Spoiler, that's your call. Most BS lips you'll see will be carbon fiber also.
Front Lip Spoiler: Unless you're running a Brabus bumper (because everyone knows the sex appeal it contains in itself) this visual lowering edgey object being added to your AMG bumper will turn the car from looking like a CLK, to looking like a more aggressive CLK. You'll find the majority if not all will be carbon fiber. You can purchase a Euroteck lip or go with the eBay route (highly suggested for penny saving) and bolt it right up. Non AMG bumpers will require modification and lengthier installations.
Window Tint: Because your parents made you but don't want to see your face when you're taking out their ride for the weekend without their permission, or something like it... window tint is self explanatory isn't it?
Suspension and Wheels:
AMG or Aftermarket Wheels: No smaller than 18" no bigger than 19" and if you're slick enough and don't wear tall tee's you can possibly run a 20" wheel. So many classifications here so let's cut to the chase. If you're in a 350 or less trim CLK, most case scenarios is that the factory loves dressing these cars with low appeal rim packages. Upgrade! AMG replicas can be had for under $800 per set in 19" and 18" applications. Do yourself a favor and pretty up your car, staggered fitment. 8-8.5" width in the front and 9-10" in the rear. Most owners run 8.5 F and 9.5 R fitment. And yes you can contact me if you need suggesstions and feedback.
Lowering Springs: Because Mercedes made our cars with 4x4 suspension, this is crucial. Get your car a little lower, close your wheel gap up a little, feel the car handle and lean less into and out of turns. And most of all, just look at lowered W209s compared to stock height. Covered.
AMG or Aftermarket Struts/Coilovers: Listen, coilovers are not for everyone. Hell they're not even for 90% of Mercedes owners. We don't get to run the cool lowering links like S/SL/CL owners do, so we can use coilovers for adjustable suspension. THESE THINGS MAKE BUMPS FEEL LIKE BRICKS. Alternative? Struts. You can run AMG struts from the 55 or go for something like a Koni setup. This will stiffen your suspension while maintaining a lesser harsh setup. It also helps on the run life of your springs that you would have gotten by reading this in order
Wheel Spacers: Again this is a personal preference. Let's just leave this one out and keep it short on description, they're for the people who like a wide look, a full wheel well, an aggressive appeal. If you need advice on this just message me.
Interior Modifications:
Summing up this whole category with one word. YOU. This is completely up to you. Mercedes did a great job with our cars on the interior, no matter the trim. I'll list out some things people have done.
Steering Wheel (Black Series, Etc.)
Shift Knob (Though Our Cars are Auto in most cases, Brabus, BS, etc.)
Paddle Shifters (Easier for 500 and up owners, difficult otherwise)
Satellite Radio (so you can listen to Lady Gaga's quest to ruin music 24/7)
Alcantara Trim/Roof (not as easy as it seems)
Carbon Fiber Interior (because having a woodie doesn't generally relate to our cars)
Illuminated Door Kick Plates (rare, but subtle)
LED Light Bulbs (oh you fancy huh?)
Performance Upgrades:
Custom / Aftermarket / AMG Exhaust: One of the first thing people go for on these cars, especially the V8 209. Hint: Having an exhaust on a V8 Mercedes will be the most raw and addictive sound on the road. Your choices are not limited at all. Most owners go with a custom setup from their preferred shop rather than purchasing an exhaust system from a company with inflated pricing. Dual, Quads, Single Tip, It's all been done, and there is no right and no wrong choice. Quad tip choice requires the proper bumper, or bumper cutout, or diffuser.
***There are not really any NEED TO HAVE performance upgrades, it's all based on the owner. Of course suspension has to fit into the performance category also, but here's a few recommendations also***
Tune: Everyone at one point in their life goes go this little bubble we call GOOGLE and types in "Mercedes Tune." Do you know what you're even looking for? Most good tunes come from performance shops, race shops, people working out of their garage. Chip? Sounds like something I eat, not something I trust. There are a few vendors here and you're lucky enough to know they will take your computer and reflash it to max performance spec. There are also people out in the world who have the proper software to plug into your car and retune the mechanics of it that way.
Intake: Look, a cold air intake is not something we need on our cars. Some people however opt for the AMG engine covers or the RennTech air box. Both will provide marginal difference to your car's breathing capabilities, but really you're not looking at large power gains.
Headers: Eh. A huge personal preference. Mercedes makes their vehicles very capable of performing, this isn't really necessary but can be added of course.
Underdrive Pulleys: While the thought of having a huge mod list is beautiful in your mind, pulleys are actually a modification worth mentioning. While they may not add the highest ratings to your vehicles performance, they do supply aid to the engine. I suggest Evosport personally.
Okay I need to stop there for now. Add away, I need to get back to work for a few! I'll update the original post as I go, and if you have any suggestions I'll add them in also. Hope this helps!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 4,748
Likes: 0
From: A Canadian in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
'05 C200K SS, '05 Kleemann CLK500K, '08 Hummer H3 & '92 Z34 5sp (track car in Canada)
If you have the old style split tails, gotta upgrade to the new style LED. The originals are far too mundane.
Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 195
Likes: 0
CLK350 Sport
Audio Upgrade:
In dash Navigation if your car does not come with the OEM Navi
Speakers upgrade
Subwoofer upgrade
Usually the aftermarket in dash navi has their own ipod connector which allows you to control your ipod from the headunit as well as recharge it. My gf loves my Pioneer Z110-BT because she can watch movie and play some music clip that are stored in her iPhone, and I like to have bluetooth from the HU too.
In dash Navigation if your car does not come with the OEM Navi
Speakers upgrade
Subwoofer upgrade
Usually the aftermarket in dash navi has their own ipod connector which allows you to control your ipod from the headunit as well as recharge it. My gf loves my Pioneer Z110-BT because she can watch movie and play some music clip that are stored in her iPhone, and I like to have bluetooth from the HU too.
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Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 41
Likes: 0
clk550
I want to change my exhaust, I have a clk550. I want to make a quad setup. I am trying to buy the same tip as my stock one. Anyone know where can i get it. Also will E55 intake fit on my clk550. I heard it will fit on clk500.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 10,275
Likes: 10
From: Jerzy
04 CLK 320 > CLK32K
I don't think the E55 airbox fits on the facelift 209s with the top mounted ECU. There are tons of threads on exhaust setups.
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...st-thread.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...st-thread.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...new-pipes.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...t-comment.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...st-thread.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...st-thread.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...new-pipes.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...t-comment.html
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 41
Likes: 0
From: Florida
W209 Clk Conv
Great List THE BEST MOD I did is scrap that wood, went to carbon-the whole car inside just looks so clean n sporty now. I am 30 yrs old not 65 ; ) no offense to our elders just not my style. Oh HID kits in all lights makes the car night appearance a 10!! Thanks
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 3,861
Likes: 3
From: Jacksonville Florida
209/W210 Estate /W211 modded by MBENZNL
Did a few OEM mods to the 209 and added 19 inch BBS lms
http://www.mbenznl.nl/index.php?opti...id=28&catid=27
http://www.mbenznl.nl/index.php?opti...id=28&catid=27
Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 174
Likes: 7
2016 C63s
I did a lot of searches on here... but I am sorry to bring this back up. I need to find instructions on adding paddle shift to my car (non paddle-shift clk500) I am ordering a new wheel and would really like to add that feature this time around.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,368
Likes: 3
From: Mesa, AZ
2011 E550 Sedan
