Deciding on my first car, CLK350/500 owners get in here!
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: bay area
no car yet
Deciding on my first car, CLK350/500 owners get in here!
What's up guys, recently I was on the search for a c350 coupe, but I might buy
a CLK350/500 in cash instead of having to finance the c350. What do you guys
like about your cars? hows daily commuting? comfort? interior? performance
and overall MPG's? Trying to decide between the 350/500. Is the V8 worth the
extra power? I would go for it but I'm not sure of the maintenance problems a
merc V8 has.. plus not dual exhaust on a V8 kinda sucks. What are your guys
personal experiences like? Thanks .
a CLK350/500 in cash instead of having to finance the c350. What do you guys
like about your cars? hows daily commuting? comfort? interior? performance
and overall MPG's? Trying to decide between the 350/500. Is the V8 worth the
extra power? I would go for it but I'm not sure of the maintenance problems a
merc V8 has.. plus not dual exhaust on a V8 kinda sucks. What are your guys
personal experiences like? Thanks .
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 1,364
Likes: 149
2012 C300 4MATIC Sport
Whatever you do, skip 2006-2007 models because these were the first years for the M272/3 engines and the 722.9 7-speed transmissions and they both had major problems which cost a lot to repair if not under warranty.
The famous balance shaft issue plagued the engines while the fluid pump and the conductor plate/valve body issues plagued the transmissions.
The best choice for a CLK are 2005 CLK 320s or 2005 CLK 500 or 2008-9 CLK 250/550.
By 2005, all the 722.6 5-speed transmission problems were resolved and the interior received the facelift and by 08-09, the M272/3 and 722.9 problems were resolved as well.
I drive a 2005 CLK 320 and couldn't be happier. If they weren't much more expensive without any major visual difference, I'd definitely get a 08-09 CLK 350 since the powertrain experience is much smoother having test-driven both now.
The famous balance shaft issue plagued the engines while the fluid pump and the conductor plate/valve body issues plagued the transmissions.
The best choice for a CLK are 2005 CLK 320s or 2005 CLK 500 or 2008-9 CLK 250/550.
By 2005, all the 722.6 5-speed transmission problems were resolved and the interior received the facelift and by 08-09, the M272/3 and 722.9 problems were resolved as well.
I drive a 2005 CLK 320 and couldn't be happier. If they weren't much more expensive without any major visual difference, I'd definitely get a 08-09 CLK 350 since the powertrain experience is much smoother having test-driven both now.
Member
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 242
Likes: 17
2009 CLK 350
I just bought a 2009 CLK 350 in July with 27k mi on it. Love it! My other car is 415hp Trans AM but I really don't miss the hp as the CLK is no slouch, gas mileage has been great which is a bonus. Comfort is stellar, handling is cat like, just a world class automobile! Going to be looking for another for the wife soon.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 488
Likes: 37
From: Albuquerque, NM
2014 e350
A CLK fan speaking - I have had several and could recommend a 2005 320 or 500. Wonderful cars. 500 will have no more problems than a 320 - spark plugs will cost a bit more for the 500 and gas will cost more for the 500. The V-8s are really fun at times. If looking at 350s, look at 2008 and up to be safe. These are Mercedes cars and repairs can be costly, so be sure to have a pre-purchase inspection by a competent Mercedes mechanic so that you are not unpleasantly surprised after buying the car. Lower mileage cars that have been properly maintained with service records available are the best. Be patient on your hunt and Good Luck.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 3,829
Likes: 592
From: NY & FL
MB’s of all kinds.
What's up guys, recently I was on the search for a c350 coupe, but I might buy
a CLK350/500 in cash instead of having to finance the c350. What do you guys
like about your cars? hows daily commuting? comfort? interior? performance
and overall MPG's? Trying to decide between the 350/500. Is the V8 worth the
extra power? I would go for it but I'm not sure of the maintenance problems a
merc V8 has.. plus not dual exhaust on a V8 kinda sucks. What are your guys
personal experiences like? Thanks .
a CLK350/500 in cash instead of having to finance the c350. What do you guys
like about your cars? hows daily commuting? comfort? interior? performance
and overall MPG's? Trying to decide between the 350/500. Is the V8 worth the
extra power? I would go for it but I'm not sure of the maintenance problems a
merc V8 has.. plus not dual exhaust on a V8 kinda sucks. What are your guys
personal experiences like? Thanks .
I drive a 04 CLK320 and I am very please with it. A very reliable engine/Tranny.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: bay area
no car yet
Whatever you do, skip 2006-2007 models because these were the first years for the M272/3 engines and the 722.9 7-speed transmissions and they both had major problems which cost a lot to repair if not under warranty.
The famous balance shaft issue plagued the engines while the fluid pump and the conductor plate/valve body issues plagued the transmissions.
The best choice for a CLK are 2005 CLK 320s or 2005 CLK 500 or 2008-9 CLK 250/550.
By 2005, all the 722.6 5-speed transmission problems were resolved and the interior received the facelift and by 08-09, the M272/3 and 722.9 problems were resolved as well.
I drive a 2005 CLK 320 and couldn't be happier. If they weren't much more expensive without any major visual difference, I'd definitely get a 08-09 CLK 350 since the powertrain experience is much smoother having test-driven both now.
The famous balance shaft issue plagued the engines while the fluid pump and the conductor plate/valve body issues plagued the transmissions.
The best choice for a CLK are 2005 CLK 320s or 2005 CLK 500 or 2008-9 CLK 250/550.
By 2005, all the 722.6 5-speed transmission problems were resolved and the interior received the facelift and by 08-09, the M272/3 and 722.9 problems were resolved as well.
I drive a 2005 CLK 320 and couldn't be happier. If they weren't much more expensive without any major visual difference, I'd definitely get a 08-09 CLK 350 since the powertrain experience is much smoother having test-driven both now.
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Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2015
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From: bay area
no car yet
I just bought a 2009 CLK 350 in July with 27k mi on it. Love it! My other car is 415hp Trans AM but I really don't miss the hp as the CLK is no slouch, gas mileage has been great which is a bonus. Comfort is stellar, handling is cat like, just a world class automobile! Going to be looking for another for the wife soon.
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Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 63
Likes: 2
2008 CLS 63 AMG
I've driven so many different cars, but after totalling my first CLK in a freak underground garage (it caved it on the car), I had to get another CLK.
Comfort wise: CLK>Any Audi>BMW=Jaguar
That's my opinion but many would probably agree. If you live in the States, then comfort and/or ride quality isn't as important as if you lived in a less developed nation, because of the harsh roads. I live in Korea where there's more red light districts, motels, and internet cafes than there are decent roads to drive on, so ride quality is a must.
Comfort wise: CLK>Any Audi>BMW=Jaguar
That's my opinion but many would probably agree. If you live in the States, then comfort and/or ride quality isn't as important as if you lived in a less developed nation, because of the harsh roads. I live in Korea where there's more red light districts, motels, and internet cafes than there are decent roads to drive on, so ride quality is a must.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: bay area
no car yet
Also can anyone tell me what the annual costs for the clk350/500 usually are, as far as maintenance and gas consumption costs? Just trying to compare with other cars im considering.. thanks.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 986
Likes: 6
From: Kingsville Ontario (South of Detroit)
2003 S500 4Matic (SOLD) + 2004 S55 (SOLD) 2005 CLK 500 Cabriolet 2008 S 450
HTH can someone offer estimates for gas costs when we don't know the mileage etc. What does it matter? Buy the one you like and get on with life.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,227
Likes: 61
From: Atlanta Metro
2008 clk550 - Navigator - Frontier
The mileage performances of these cars are about as advertised. Knowing your anticipated mileage and a little math should get you the answer to the mileage question.
Do a search on Rudeney and maintenance. He posted a reply to someone else on maintenance cost a few weeks ago.
Do a search on Rudeney and maintenance. He posted a reply to someone else on maintenance cost a few weeks ago.
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 268
Likes: 37
From: near Birmingham, AL
2014 E350 Sedan; 2025 GLB 250
I bought a 2008 CLK350 coupe a couple of years ago as my daily driver and absolutely love everything about the car - appearance, performance, and comfort. I get 28 mpg overall, but rarely sit in traffic. I find Rodney's advice to always be spot on.
