2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK430

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK430 is a sporty and luxurious coupe/cabriolet known for its elegant design, comfortable ride, and robust V8 engine. Other engine options available in the CLK range for 2002 included the CLK320 with a 3.2L V6 and the high-performance CLK55 AMG with a 5.4L V8. The CLK430’s 4.3L V8 engine produces 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the CLK430’s combination of style, performance, and Mercedes-Benz prestige. Common dislikes include higher maintenance costs associated with a luxury vehicle, potential for electrical gremlins, and age-related wear and tear on components.

Engine

4.3L V8 (M113)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks commonly occur from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals. Ensure proper torque during reassembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak and if DIY vs. professional repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and potential stalling. The check engine light will illuminate, and a diagnostic scan will reveal a MAF sensor code.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty MAF sensor with an OEM or high-quality aftermarket replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough running engine, stalling, and reduced power. Check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and potential damage to the engine. Common culprits include a failing water pump, a leaking radiator, or a faulty thermostat.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue and replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the part and if DIY vs. professional repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Transmission Fluid Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks from the conductor plate electrical connector. These can eventually wick up the harness and into the TCU.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate connector. If the fluid has wicked into the TCU, replace the TCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for the conductor plate connector. $500 - $1500+ for the TCU replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, and overall poor transmission performance.
  • Solution: Often caused by low transmission fluid level or degraded fluid. A transmission flush and filter replacement might resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body issues or internal wear may require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for fluid and filter change. $2,000 - $5,000+ for rebuild or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and instability.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension bushings, including control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the number of bushings replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noises when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps. Excessive play in the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per ball joint.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixels Fading
  • Description/Symptoms: Portions of the LCD display in the instrument cluster become unreadable due to pixel failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to operate properly, getting stuck, or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the quarter panels, door sills, and around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Repair rust by cutting out the affected metal, welding in new metal, and painting the area. Prevent further rust by applying rust inhibitors and regularly washing and waxing the car.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ per area depending on the severity and location of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue and repair or replace the faulty component, such as the motor or tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK430, while a stylish and powerful vehicle, is prone to certain common issues due to its age. Engine-related problems such as oil leaks and sensor failures, along with transmission concerns like fluid leaks and erratic shifting, can be relatively costly to repair. Suspension wear and electrical gremlins are also common. Rust can be a significant issue as well. The severity and cost of these repairs can vary widely depending on the specific problem, the extent of the damage, and whether the repairs are performed by a professional mechanic or DIY. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.