Just bought a CLK55, sight unseen off of Cars and Bids. The car looks to be in pretty good shape with about ~85000 miles on it with one owner and California owned. I am going to take pick it up in Los Angeles and drive it to Seattle. Other than tires and oil, what maintenance items should I look for and take care of In LA before I start my drive?

 

Rust... first thing's first. Look out for any rust.
And then start by checking out the electrics in the car.

 

Congrats on your purchase and the great drive ahead!

I would also look at the coil springs. They have a penchant for breaking.

Do you have a couple or convertible?

 

Also, just saw Doug DeMuro rave about your car. If you don’t take it down to San Diego and let him film with it, you’ve failed.

 

I just did something long these lines. I took it to a specialist garage and had them look at it and advise. I had them change the oil/filter and they suggested that the coolant tank be changed (the plastic hardened and was falling apart when touched). I would do this since you're probably going to do this anyway when you get to Seattle.

 

How's the car? How was your trip?

To be clear, I was recommending that you have a specialist look at it to assess any potential issues, and not change the coolant tank (like I had them do).

 

I’d first recommend topping the A/C refrigerant, as old systems typically leak some. You can pickup a full can for from any auto parts store. Mine took 3 cans, but has now stayed charged for a year. Also, swap the windshield wiper while you’re at it. My last recommendation would be to replace the engine mounts, as there is a high likelyhood they are original. They are available at most autopart stores. It takes a floor jack and a couple wrenches and maybe 3-4 hours to replace both. My 2003 CLK430 feels and drives like a completely different car after replacement, much smoother and less road translation.

 

1 and done 😐

 

He wrote in the comments on the auction that he intends to resell in “July/August.”

 

I meant 1 question/post then crickets.

 

Super late, but it was great! The car has been a ton of fun!! I did plan on selling the car in July but its been really hard to let go!

 

The plan was to have it as a summer car, but I still have it haha! I never got email notifications for this post so I had no idea anyone even replied!

 

Great to hear. How has the car been? Any hidden issues?

 

Definitely need to do this..Do you have a sticky on how to do? Very interested!!
R
2Merks

 

Here’s the engine mount replacement video:
Here’s the AC fill video:
Andy

 

I see you've put it up for sale on The cars and the bids. Good luck.