🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: CLK-Class Year: 2002 Body Style: Cabriolet Trim Level: CLK430 Generation Generation Code: C208 Generation Years: 1997-2003 Codes Chassis Code: A208 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Luxury Sports Coupe/Convertible Target Audience: Consumers seeking a premium, stylish, and performance-oriented luxury convertible with German engineering Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: BMW 3 Series Convertible, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Lexus SC 430, Porsche Boxster Key Features Design Philosophy: Elegant coupe lines adapted to a convertible, embodying Mercedes-Benz's signature blend of performance and luxury Convertible System: Fully automatic, power-operated soft top with a heated rear glass window Powertrain Emphasis: Focus on smooth, powerful V8 engine performance and refined driving dynamics 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: All aspects of owning and operating the 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK430 Cabriolet Secondary Coverage: Maintenance, specifications, driver controls, safety systems, comfort systems Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approx. 400-500 pages (based on typical Mercedes-Benz owner manuals of this era) Manual Type Manual Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system Chassis: Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires Electrical: Lighting, instrument cluster, battery, fuses, infotainment, climate control Body: Doors, locks, security, convertible top operation, glass Interior: Seating, safety restraints, climate controls, entertainment systems Climate Control: Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings, recirculation mode, cabin air filter replacement location. Locks And Security: Central locking system, remote keyless entry, immobilizer system, alarm system operation. Instrument Cluster: Explanation of all gauges, warning lights, telltales, and the Driver Information System (DIS). Procedures Included Operation: Starting and driving, parking, convertible top operation, basic controls Maintenance: Fluid checks and refills, filter replacement, cleaning, general care Troubleshooting: Indicator lights, warning messages, basic user-level diagnostics Safety: Seat belt usage, airbag system information, child restraint systems Cleaning: Interior and exterior cleaning recommendations, convertible top care, wheel and tire cleaning, paint care. Technical Depth Depth Level: Owner-level maintenance, operation, and basic troubleshooting; not a full service or repair manual Diagnostic Tools: Covers basic warning lights and what they signify, but does not detail use of diagnostic scanners or advanced troubleshooting procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Searchable: Yes (if text-based PDF) Print Quality Print Quality: High resolution, suitable for printing Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M113 Engine Type: SOHC V8 Displacement: 4.3 Liters (4266 cc) Performance Horsepower: 275 hp @ 5750 rpm Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 3000-4250 rpm Fuel System Fuel Injection: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended) Engine Compartment Engine Layout: Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive (RWD) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Automatic (5G-Tronic) Optional Optional Transmission: N/A for CLK430 model Features Transmission Features: TouchShift (manual selection of gears), electronically controlled with lock-up torque converter 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 178.7 inches Width: 68.2 inches Height: 53.9 inches Wheelbase: 105.9 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3600-3700 lbs Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4500-4600 lbs Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 10.2 cubic feet (with top up) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver: Good NHTSA Front Crash Test Passenger: Good IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating: Good Active Features Traction Control: ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) Stability Control: ESP (Electronic Stability Program) Brakes: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags Rollover Protection: Pop-up roll bars behind rear headrests (deploy automatically if rollover is detected) Seat Belts: 3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front pretensioners and belt force limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Bose premium sound system (optional), AM/FM radio, CD player Navigation: Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard, electronic Headlights: Halogen projector beam headlights, optional Xenon HID headlights Connectivity Telephony: Optional integrated hands-free telephone system (often with cradle) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (dependent on driving conditions and display message) Major Service A: Often indicated by the flexible service system ('Service A') at around 15,000-20,000 miles, including oil change, filter replacement, inspection. Major Service B: Often indicated by 'Service B' at around 30,000-40,000 miles, including more comprehensive checks and fluid replacements. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: MB Approved 229.5 or 229.51 synthetic oil (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent) Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 8.5 quarts (with filter change) Coolant Type: MB Approved 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, OAT type) mixed with distilled water Transmission Fluid Type: MB Approved ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 (MB Approved 331.0 or 402.0) Known Issues Common Wear Item: Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, ignition coils, O2 sensors, blower motor resistor, valve cover gaskets (oil leaks) Convertible Top Issues: Hydraulic pump leaks, microswitch failures, fabric...
Mann-Filter HU 718/5y, Bosch 72308 (verify with VIN)
Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter C35145/1 (Right Bank), C35144/1 (Left Bank) or equivalent (verify with VIN)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, is renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and innovation in the automotive industry.
Model Evolution
Clk Platform Origin:
Based on the W202 C-Class platform, but styled and positioned as a sportier, more luxurious coupe/convertible.
Clk Generation C208 Introduction:
Introduced in 1997 as the successor to the E-Class Coupe (C124).
Production
Production Period:
1997-2003
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Reputation:
The CLK-Class was generally well-received for its styling, comfort, and strong V8 performance, contributing to Mercedes-Benz's luxury brand image.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Rating:
Historically mixed, with strengths in performance and comfort but occasional concerns about reliability compared to some competitors (as per period reviews).