2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG is a performance-oriented coupe and convertible powered by a hand-built 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 362 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. It was exclusively offered with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Common complaints include higher maintenance costs and some electrical gremlins typical of Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era.

Engine

5.4L M113 V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, leading to burning smells and potential oil loss.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
• MAF (Mass Air Flow) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, rough idle, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in a single gear (limp mode), or failure to shift. The Check Engine Light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and potentially the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially at lower speeds, as well as harsh shifting or slipping.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission shifts gears poorly, or the transmission feels like it is slipping in and out of gear.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and replace the filter. If the problem persists, inspect the valve body for damage, or consider replacing the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The car sits unevenly, the air compressor runs constantly, or the suspension sags.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per corner depending on component.
    • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking, popping, or squeaking noises from the suspension, along with loose or wandering steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels fading or disappearing from the instrument cluster display.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The window does not go up or down, or makes grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per window
    • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening/closing correctly or getting stuck.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the sunroof motor, tracks, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming around the wheel wells, door sills, or other body panels, depending on the car’s location and upkeep.
  • Solution: Rust removal and repainting or body panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3000+, varies greatly depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Buttons/Switches Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Buttons such as those for the seat heaters not working, or the hazard light switch failing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected switches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ per switch
    • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature control, with hot air blowing from one side and cold from the other, or clicking noises behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen not working correctly or not turning on at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK55 AMG, while offering strong performance and luxury, is prone to several age-related issues. Engine issues like valve cover leaks and sensor failures are common, but relatively inexpensive. Transmission problems can be more costly, especially conductor plate and torque converter failures. Suspension issues, especially with the air suspension (if equipped) are costly to fix. Electrical problems are common for vehicles of this era. Overall, owning a CLK55 AMG requires budgeting for potential repairs, especially concerning the transmission and suspension.