JettaRed

iTrader: (1)

Thinking of getting a 2006 CLK 500 with 162k miles on it. The asking price is $5000. The seller claims it's in good condition, etc. Of course, I will bring my Autel scanner along to make sure there are no hidden issues.

I already have a 2004 SL500 with the 113 engine and 722.9 tranny.

Is there anything in particular I need to check for?

Thank

Rudeney

I saw you asked the same question over on BW...I'll give the same answers...If you are comfortable handling the maintenance on the SL, then CLK will be about the same, but no worries with ABC. If your SL has the 7-speed transmission, then it's the same drivetrain in the CLK with the same potential problems with conductor plate issues (generally a dealer-only job), dirty fluif that needs changing ever 40K miles, and the noisy fluid pump sleeve bearing. The hydraulics ont he soft top are no worse than the SL's vario roof, but the canvas top may need more maintenance. The seam above the rear window tends to come apart. If the rest of the top is in good condition, it can be fixed by folding the canvas back and stitching/gluing from underneath (topside fixes won't work). If you do need new canvas, top of the line OEM Haartz Sonnenlenad from Robbins is $1000 and if you are so skilled, it can be done in a weekend, or a good shop should charge less than $2000 for labor.

JettaRed

iTrader: (1)

Rodney, thanks a lot. I thought I'd ask on both forums since I'm not sure everyone is on both. WRT the conductor plate, I have pulled mine and sent it off to Circuit Board Medics for repair, etc., and they did a marvelous job. I broke the connector removing it and they were able to still copy over/program a replacement plate. The car runs great now.

I'm still debating the CLK 500. It was on Craig's List and the seller didn't provide contact info. So I'm waiting to see if he updates the posting. So many scams on Craig's List!