New Member: Getting a CLK55 - Have Questions
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 135
Likes: 1
From: NY
your mom
New Member: Getting a CLK55 - Have Questions
Hello Everyone,
I am about a week away from finalizing a deal on a 2003 CLK55 (Silver with black leather, nav). The car has 54,000 miles. I am getting it for around $27-28,000 through a friend of a friend.
I'm going to have it checked out by Mercedes, but I wanted to know if there were any specific things/issues to look out for. Also, are there any major scheduled maintenances coming up? I looked long and hard and couldn't find the schedule for the 55.
Hopefully I'll have my car soon, I'll be sure to post pictures as long as the deal goes though.
Thanks in advance!
I am about a week away from finalizing a deal on a 2003 CLK55 (Silver with black leather, nav). The car has 54,000 miles. I am getting it for around $27-28,000 through a friend of a friend.
I'm going to have it checked out by Mercedes, but I wanted to know if there were any specific things/issues to look out for. Also, are there any major scheduled maintenances coming up? I looked long and hard and couldn't find the schedule for the 55.
Hopefully I'll have my car soon, I'll be sure to post pictures as long as the deal goes though.
Thanks in advance!
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: Jacksonville Beach, FL
2001 CLK55
Hey AOG, cool handle.
I'm a newbie too. Just bought an 01' CLK55 with 50,000 miles about 3 weeks ago and received the service records from the previous owner in the mail today. The thing that jumped out at me was having both transmission and motor mounts replaced the week before I picked up the car. Along with some other misc. maintenance the tab came to over $4K. I got an extended warranty to 85,000 miles in the deal so I'm not real concerned about repairs but I've owned a lot of hot cars, and I never had to have the motor mounts replaced.
Something to look out for I guess?
I'm a newbie too. Just bought an 01' CLK55 with 50,000 miles about 3 weeks ago and received the service records from the previous owner in the mail today. The thing that jumped out at me was having both transmission and motor mounts replaced the week before I picked up the car. Along with some other misc. maintenance the tab came to over $4K. I got an extended warranty to 85,000 miles in the deal so I'm not real concerned about repairs but I've owned a lot of hot cars, and I never had to have the motor mounts replaced.
Something to look out for I guess?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 3,784
Likes: 84
From: SCV SoCal
2002 CLK430
Normal wear items at this stage will include:
I'd ask the owner to supply a VMI. If the 2003 has a Valeo radiator, I'd replace it immediately.
IHTH
- Both motor mounts
- Trans mount
- Brake light switch (if it's the same as a W208)
- Differential side seals
- Flex dics
- Catalytic converters
I'd ask the owner to supply a VMI. If the 2003 has a Valeo radiator, I'd replace it immediately.
IHTH
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 135
Likes: 1
From: NY
your mom
Hey thanks, I'm a little put off by the mileage but it seems like a very very good deal. I'm setting up the inspection by Mercedes tomorrow, I'll tell them to look out for those items especially.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: Jacksonville Beach, FL
2001 CLK55
Marcus, let me ask you a question.
Why are motor/trans mounts considered "normal wear"? I have an idea why these need replacing, but it wouldnt be under what I consider normal conditions. Thanks.
G
Why are motor/trans mounts considered "normal wear"? I have an idea why these need replacing, but it wouldnt be under what I consider normal conditions. Thanks.
G
Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 236
Likes: 0
From: SE Massachusetts
2008 911 C2S, 2009 SL63
There was a recall a year or so ago, concerning the alternator/power regulator. Make sure your car got the recall work done, or didn't need it.
http://www.amgpower.com/phpBB3/viewt...&sd=a&start=36
And yes, if it has the Valeo radiator, GET IT REPLACED...NOW. My experiences (and the technical service bulletin about it) here:
http://www.amgpower.com/phpBB3/viewt...&sd=a&start=39
http://www.amgpower.com/phpBB3/viewt...&sd=a&start=36
And yes, if it has the Valeo radiator, GET IT REPLACED...NOW. My experiences (and the technical service bulletin about it) here:
http://www.amgpower.com/phpBB3/viewt...&sd=a&start=39
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 72
Likes: 1
From: Dallas
2001 CLK55
Normal wear items at this stage will include:
I'd ask the owner to supply a VMI. If the 2003 has a Valeo radiator, I'd replace it immediately.
IHTH
- Both motor mounts
- Trans mount
- Brake light switch (if it's the same as a W208)
- Differential side seals
- Flex dics
- Catalytic converters
I'd ask the owner to supply a VMI. If the 2003 has a Valeo radiator, I'd replace it immediately.
IHTH
What other service do you recommend in addition to having the parts you mention checked. E.g. I know the recommendation to have the transmission fluid flushed.
I am fixing to take the car to get a check up of the components you mention, and would like to know what other stuff to get done/checked. Car has 50K mi, W208 CLK55, and not used as a daily driver, just for long distance driving..
Also planning on joining folks at the AMGFest in Louisana, so any additional checks recommended before a "gentle" driving event like that would be appreciated..
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Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 135
Likes: 1
From: NY
your mom
I wasn't even considering these when I was car shopping. I have been looking for a E46 M3 since May but everyone selling theirs GROSSLY overestimates what their cars are worth. I'm not about to plop down $31k on a 60,000 mile 2002 M3 just because it has rims.
Hell, I see people asking $38-40k for 2003 M3's...ridiculous
Is there any way to get the radiator done as a recall? If not, how much am I looking at to get it replaced? I DEFINITELY don't want to risk transmission damage so it will be the first thing I do when I get the car.
Hell, I see people asking $38-40k for 2003 M3's...ridiculous
Is there any way to get the radiator done as a recall? If not, how much am I looking at to get it replaced? I DEFINITELY don't want to risk transmission damage so it will be the first thing I do when I get the car.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 3,784
Likes: 84
From: SCV SoCal
2002 CLK430
Our cars have liquid filled motor mounts, which have always been considered normal wear. When the motor mounts leak, they sag. *I believe*, if the car is continually driven with sagging motor mounts, that puts additional strain on the trans mount. It's definitely at an odd angle when the motor mounts sag. I believe that odd angle is what kills the trans mount. In that light, maybe the trans mount is exactly normal wear, but on many cars, they have to be done. My trans mount has never been replaced, but both motor mounts were done a few months ago. Trans mounts are dirt cheap. Less than $25.
Almost a Member!
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 44
Likes: 0
2001 CLK55 AMG
I wasn't even considering these when I was car shopping. I have been looking for a E46 M3 since May but everyone selling theirs GROSSLY overestimates what their cars are worth. I'm not about to plop down $31k on a 60,000 mile 2002 M3 just because it has rims.
Hell, I see people asking $38-40k for 2003 M3's...ridiculous
Is there any way to get the radiator done as a recall? If not, how much am I looking at to get it replaced? I DEFINITELY don't want to risk transmission damage so it will be the first thing I do when I get the car.
Hell, I see people asking $38-40k for 2003 M3's...ridiculous
Is there any way to get the radiator done as a recall? If not, how much am I looking at to get it replaced? I DEFINITELY don't want to risk transmission damage so it will be the first thing I do when I get the car.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 3,784
Likes: 84
From: SCV SoCal
2002 CLK430
I wasn't even considering these when I was car shopping. I have been looking for a E46 M3 since May but everyone selling theirs GROSSLY overestimates what their cars are worth. I'm not about to plop down $31k on a 60,000 mile 2002 M3 just because it has rims.
Hell, I see people asking $38-40k for 2003 M3's...ridiculous
Is there any way to get the radiator done as a recall? If not, how much am I looking at to get it replaced? I DEFINITELY don't want to risk transmission damage so it will be the first thing I do when I get the car.
Hell, I see people asking $38-40k for 2003 M3's...ridiculous
Is there any way to get the radiator done as a recall? If not, how much am I looking at to get it replaced? I DEFINITELY don't want to risk transmission damage so it will be the first thing I do when I get the car.
That's the FIRST thing I'd recommend - joining MBCA. My discounts on parts & service more than pay for my membership fee.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 9,734
Likes: 65
From: Hotlanta
AMG
DRIVER SAFETY
____ Helmet – Snell M or SA2000 or newer rating
_____ Closed toe rubber soled shoes
_____ Long Pants (non-synthetic fiber)
_____ Long sleeve shirt (non-synthetic fiber)
VEHICLE INTERIOR
_____ All loose items, including floor mats, removed
_____ Interior rear view mirror intact
_____ Seat belts operable and in good condition
_____ Pedals in good condition
_____ Brake pedal firm
_____ Emergency brake operational
VEHICLE EXTERIOR
_____ Body panels secure
_____ No cracked glass in windows
_____ Side mirror(s) intact
_____ Windshield wipers operational
_____ Gas cap secure
WHEELS & TIRES
_____ Straight and round, no visible damage
_____ Valve stems intact
_____ All lug nuts in place and torqued
_____ Tires – no cords or structure material exposed
_____ Tires – no visible patches, blisters or bulges
_____ Tire pressures
_____ Center caps removed
ENGINE AREA
_____ Battery tied down and secure
_____ Battery cables and posts tight
_____ Oil level full
_____ No visible signs of oil leakage
_____ Coolant level full
_____ No visible signs of coolant leakage
_____ All belts in good condition
_____ All hoses in good condition
_____ All hoses secure
_____ All lines secure
_____ All fluid reservoirs capped and secure
_____ Throttle linkage
_____ Hood and deck lids secure
BRAKES
_____ Brake fluid full
_____ Brakes recently bled
_____ Sufficient brake pads – 3/16” minimum
_____ Brake light operational
SUSPENSION & GEARS
_____ Steering linkage
_____ Tie rods secure with no play
_____ Shocks and springs in place and secure
_____ Brushings intact and tight
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 135
Likes: 1
From: NY
your mom
Car is going into the dealer on Tuesday for the final checkup. The radiator was already replaced around 30k miles, sweeeet. I am test driving the car tomorrow, can't wait to rock the double nickel
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 135
Likes: 1
From: NY
your mom
I drove it last night, what a ride! The interior is black with maroon-ish inserts. I didn't get to play with the Nav too much, but everything was there...all the bells and whistles.
I loooooove the exhaust note. I've never owned a V8 before so this is very new to me. I can definitely get used to the low end torque.
Hopefully everything will check out on tuesday and I can be in the car by the end of next week.
I loooooove the exhaust note. I've never owned a V8 before so this is very new to me. I can definitely get used to the low end torque.
Hopefully everything will check out on tuesday and I can be in the car by the end of next week.
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 284
Likes: 0
From: NYC
CLK 55
I drove it last night, what a ride! The interior is black with maroon-ish inserts. I didn't get to play with the Nav too much, but everything was there...all the bells and whistles.
I loooooove the exhaust note. I've never owned a V8 before so this is very new to me. I can definitely get used to the low end torque.
Hopefully everything will check out on tuesday and I can be in the car by the end of next week.
I loooooove the exhaust note. I've never owned a V8 before so this is very new to me. I can definitely get used to the low end torque.
Hopefully everything will check out on tuesday and I can be in the car by the end of next week.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 3,784
Likes: 84
From: SCV SoCal
2002 CLK430
No timing belts, the M113 uses chains. At the 5 year mark, which is where the car is now, it needs plugs. They have a 5 year/100,000 mile lifespan. You may want to ask the dealer service writer about a price on the plugs.
The dealer's final assessment (which I assume to be a PPI for you, not the seller) should include what services are due, how much brake pad/rotor life are left, paint depth, condition of normal wear suspension components (struts, shocks, bushings, alignment, etc.), all electronics, cooling system, HVAC systems, complete drivetrain, interior, and exterior (esp. corrosion).
Lastly, I typically don't like the dealer who services the car, to perform the PPI. IHTH
The dealer's final assessment (which I assume to be a PPI for you, not the seller) should include what services are due, how much brake pad/rotor life are left, paint depth, condition of normal wear suspension components (struts, shocks, bushings, alignment, etc.), all electronics, cooling system, HVAC systems, complete drivetrain, interior, and exterior (esp. corrosion).
Lastly, I typically don't like the dealer who services the car, to perform the PPI. IHTH
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 613
Likes: 1
From: Sparks, NV
03 CLK 55 AMG, IMCO muffler/Magnaflow tips, KW V1 coilovers, 19" Petrol Metrix Wheels
if you think the exhaust sounds good now put a two chamber muffler on and then take a listen. you will get a deeper and throatier tone. 
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 135
Likes: 1
From: NY
your mom
Just got the car, and it is wonderful. My only question is...is there any way to stop the steering wheel and seat from moving back to the original positions when you stop the car?
It seems like something that would go sooner than later, plus it makes a creaking noise (steering wheel) when it goes back. I'd rather it just stay where I decided to put it!
Secondly, where do you put drinks? My center console has some weird phone attachment thing on it. Under it is all wires and some other crap I didn't recognize. Seems like there is no room to put "stuff" there...
Also, are there any scans of the owner's manual? Mine came with literally nothing in the glove box.
It seems like something that would go sooner than later, plus it makes a creaking noise (steering wheel) when it goes back. I'd rather it just stay where I decided to put it!
Secondly, where do you put drinks? My center console has some weird phone attachment thing on it. Under it is all wires and some other crap I didn't recognize. Seems like there is no room to put "stuff" there...
Also, are there any scans of the owner's manual? Mine came with literally nothing in the glove box.
