Mercedes-Benz CLK-Klasse 208 CLK 320 Coupé, 218 PS, 5-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive (1997–2002)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Mercedes CLK W208 (1997-2003): known problems and buying guide

  A fair buy if the automatic shifts cleanly and the V6 pulley and steering are tight, with the closest look at the 1998 and 1999 automatics.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. Drive the automatic cold and warm, through every gear, and pull away from a stop in Drive and Reverse. Bad result: a delay or no movement when it engages, a jolt at higher revs, or a stall when cold.
2. On a lift, look at the torque converter seal and the wiring near the gearbox for fresh oil. Bad result: oil at the seal, which can creep into the wiring and reach the control unit.
3. Start the cold V6 and listen at idle, then watch the crank pulley. Bad result: a rattle, a knock, uneven running or a pulley that wobbles.
4. Look at the exhaust manifold of the Kompressor four-cylinder with a torch. A lift helps. Bad result: a visible crack in the manifold.
5. With the engine running, turn the steering wheel by hand and feel for play before the wheels move. On a lift, check the tie-rod ends for play. Bad result: play at the wheel, vague steering, or a loose tie-rod end.
6. Check the body for rust: door bottom edges, under the trim strips, boot lid, front wings where they meet the sills, sills and jacking points, and the floor. Lift the driver's footwell carpet and feel for damp. Bad result: bubbles, holes, fresh filler or a wet carpet.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions