2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG is a performance-oriented variant of the CLK-Class coupe. It came exclusively with a 5.4L naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 342 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the car’s blend of luxury and performance, its distinctive styling, and the robust power delivery of the V8 engine. Common dislikes include the potential for expensive repairs due to the car’s age and complexity, as well as some dated interior features.

Engine

5.4L M113 V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, leading to oil drips and a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• MAF Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission slipping, getting stuck in a single gear (limp mode), and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and potentially the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, especially during acceleration and shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the Torque Converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, especially when going over bumps, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vague steering, vibrations, and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings, or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per arm
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replacement of the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per shock
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels disappearing from the instrument cluster display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, or moving very slowly, along with clicking noises when operating the switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, and a battery warning light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust around the wheel wells, door edges, and other body panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair or body panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ (varies greatly depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening the doors from the outside.
  • Solution: Door Handle replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, or getting stuck.
  • Solution: Sunroof repair or replacement of the sunroof motor/mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Switches
  • Description/Symptoms: Buttons losing functionality or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected switch(es).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per switch
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG, while a desirable vehicle, is prone to certain issues due to its age and performance-oriented nature. The most significant and costly problems tend to be related to the transmission (conductor plate/valve body) and electrical components (instrument cluster). Engine issues, such as oil leaks, are also relatively common. Suspension components are also a typical maintenance item at this age. While some issues can be addressed relatively inexpensively, others require more extensive repairs, potentially making ownership more expensive than some might anticipate.