2003 CLK 55, LA to Seattle, what to look for?
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Newbie
Joined: Feb 2025
Posts: 5
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From: Seattle
2003 CLK55
2003 CLK 55, LA to Seattle, what to look for?
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?
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Joined: Jan 2025
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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.
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Joined: Jun 2024
Posts: 118
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From: Midwest
CLK 430
First Trip
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.
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Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Feb 2025
Posts: 5
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From: Seattle
2003 CLK55
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!
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Newbie
Joined: Feb 2025
Posts: 5
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From: Seattle
2003 CLK55
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From: Merkville the galaxy of Stars
'99 CLK/05 E500 WAG
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.
R
2Merks
