Lamoureux

Hello everyone,

I am new to MB world as I am looking at purchasing a 2002 CLK55 AMG from a close friend. Car has 115K miles on it, black on black, all stock. He's selling it for $4500
Interior is in great shape and the paint is good for a 2002. Always garaged kept and he is the 2nd owner. Needs new tires but that's about it.
I have never owned a Benz but have had plenty of American V8 cars and I am very familiar with working on them. Was wondering if this would be a good purchase and if there is anything to look out for when working on these cars?

For $4500 this seems like a pretty fun car to get into and I just wanted to check around and make sure I'm not overlooking anything here as I have heard that these cars can be expensive to work on. (As of now this car needs nothing but tires).
Any info would be great! Thank you.

JoeJErnst

The 208 chassis CLK55 (which the 2002 is) is a great starter 'Benz. It was one of the last cars that isn't over-engineered; it's a great car for a DIY'er and doesn't have too many of the complex systems that get expensive to repair like the newer ones. It's still not a Honda, as far as repair expenses, but I think it would be a great purchase. I love mine just as much as my 2004 E55.

j-mo

I've had a 2002 CLK55 for 11 years. Bought it with 53K and have 125K on it now. Is such a great car, very reliable. I have had some big bills recently but all wear items. When you think about a 350 HP coupe of this quality for $4500, there is nothing that comes close. I second everything JoeJErnst said. I also have a 2006 E55 which I've had for a year. Amazing car but there is something about the CLK that I just love. The simplicity, the N/A engine.

Lamoureux

Thanks a ton for the input JoeJErnst I appreciate it. I have been doing some research on the 208 chassis as well and have seemed to come to the same conclusion.
Looks like the 208 chassis was really before these cars got too complicated . Thanks!

C280 Sport

I had a 2002 CLK430. Nearly the same car. It never gave me any issues. Pixels on the cluster will go out. The rust issues can be a issue for people not blessed enough to live with no snow. Also check for suspension issues. Make sure the A/C works. If the car has records and you can get a PPI then you should be more then fine.

Lamoureux

Thanks for the info! I will take a look at the pixels on the cluster. That's another semi common issue I've heard.