2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500 is a stylish and sporty coupe/convertible, powered by a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2003 CLK include the CLK320 with a 3.2L V6, and the high-performance CLK55 AMG with a 5.4L V8. All engine options are paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the CLK500 for its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and powerful engine, while common complaints include electrical issues, rust, and expensive maintenance.

Engine

5.0L M113 V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, often originating from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots on the ground, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the location of the leak and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• MAF (Mass Air Flow) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MAF sensor can fail, causing poor engine performance, rough idling, and decreased fuel economy. The check engine light will typically illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Erratic Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The 722.6 transmission can experience erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or delayed engagement, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission service (fluid and filter change). If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the severity and required repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The conductor plate inside the transmission can fail, leading to incorrect gear selection and a limp-home mode. Diagnostic trouble codes will be present.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate and filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Front lower ball joints can wear out prematurely, resulting in clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings, especially on the front, can cause clunking noises, vague steering, and vibration.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side, depending on whether just the bushings or the whole arm is replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: The LCD screen in the instrument cluster is prone to pixel loss, making it difficult to read the displayed information.
  • Solution: Replace the LCD screen or the entire instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window regulators can fail, causing the windows to become stuck or operate erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500 per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The SAM modules control various electrical functions and can fail, leading to issues with lighting, wipers, or other accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific SAM module failure and replace the faulty module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the module and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can form on the lower body panels, wheel arches, and around the door handles, especially in regions with harsh winters or road salt usage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the severity and extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs can become stuck, noisy, or leak due to broken or worn components.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on the severity and extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Creaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console can develop annoying creaks and rattles due to the age of the plastics and materials.
  • Solution: Applying sound dampening and re-securing loose trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500 can be a rewarding car to own, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Electrical problems and rust are prevalent, and suspension components can wear out. Engine and transmission issues can range from minor leaks and shifting problems to more significant failures. Repair costs can vary widely, but many issues can be expensive to fix due to the cost of parts and specialized labor. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.