First Benz purchase ?? Info needed plz.

[lsenus]

Hello to all. I'm obviously new to the forum, and I need a little advice. I've found an '03 CLK55 AMG for sale. 81k miles, clean car fax, no evidence of accidents for $20k. I'd like to know what I can expect from this model: items or systems that seem to fail at predictable intervals i.e. fuel pumps, brake system components other than the obvious pads and rotors; common items or system problems over all such as keyless ignition problems, sensors, displays, etc., fuel mileage? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

To remove this ad, register today or login if you already are registered!

[MarcusF]

If you can't do it yourself, I highly recommend you take the car to a Mercedes-Benz dealer and pay them to inspect the car. The drivetrain is bulletproof, but a six year old car does have normal wear items.


The normal wear stuff to watch for at this stage will include:

• Power seat motors
• Both motor mounts
• Trans mount
• Brake light switch
• Possibly the differential side seals
• Flex dics
• Possibly the catalytic converters

You may want to ensure (for me that means a visual and/or receipts) the maintenance has been kept up. One of the W209 guys will have to tell you which radiator to look for and whether the window regulators may be troublesome.

[lsenus]

I've read elsewhere about Valeo radiators in the 209.376 chasis being prone to leaking coolant into the trans cooler secton of the radiator and destroying the friction material in the trans., basically ruining it.
Has anyone had this problem? How can you tell if this has happened to a particular vehicle? Is there trans fluid present in the coolant or vice-versa? Has anyone just simply installed an auxilary trans cooler and by-passed the in-radiator cooler? How much is a relacement trans for these cars?

I know, I know, alot of questions, but I'd like to make sure about this vehicle. The more I look at pictures of it, the more I fall in love with the styling.

[j-mo]

If you can, try to get an aftermarket ext warranty. I got a 3 year on my 208 CLK55. Haven't used it yet but I'm sure I will at some point. 81 K isn't super high mileage wise but might be a challenge to get a warranty - that is if you want one.

Good luck, you will love the car!!

[Chappy]

Personally, I'd go for a car with lower miles. There is an '03 with 40K+ miles in ATL for a few thousand more. Condition is everything....have a thorough PPI done.

Good luck!

[Jons95c36amg]

Originally Posted by Chappy

Personally, I'd go for a car with lower miles. There is an '03 with 40K+ miles in ATL for a few thousand more. Condition is everything....have a thorough PPI done.

Good luck!

I guess its too late now. Mine still has 43k miles. I just checked the air filter looks dirty. Still debating if I should go with the OEM or K&N filter. Also the valve gaskets were slightly leaking. Since I tightened the screws no more drip!

[lsenus]

I'm going tomorrow to look at the car again with a friend of mine who is a mechanic. We'll definatly check which radiator is in the car and verify there no leaks of anti-freeze into the trans cooler section of the radiator. If all's well, then put down a deposit and pick it up after I get back from an out of town trip.