jayh

is replacing the front struts something simple or should ya take it to the mechanic?

rear pads i need to replace there getting a bit worn..any special tools needed to replace them?

thanks in advance!!!

Gullwing

You will have issues if you are transferring the springs. If not then you should be able to do it fine, if you know what you are doing.

Nope

ncoupe

Well it all depends on your interest and experience. I have done break pads on my 2003 CLK 320, and they are some of the simplest of all the cars I have worked on, because you do not need to take out the caliper from the caliper bracket. The pads simply slide out through the side of the caliper furthest frmo the center of the rotor (the side that faces toward the rear of the car), after you drift a couple of lock pins out of the caliper. The only "special" tool I remember needing can be replaced by a strong long nail (2-3 mm thick and 7 mm long) to use as a drift for said pins.

Now about the front struts. Disclaimer: I have not done struts on the 320 yet, but I have dome them on numerous BMWs and Volkswagens of similar design. This is a step or two above replacing brake pads. You will definitely need a set of strut spring compressors, and, for convenience, a special socket to tighten the strut tower nut of the strut, whicle holding the shock piston fixed with another wrench. I will be happy to send you the relevant section out of the MB repair manual DVD, so that you can decide if it makes sense for you to attempt the repair.