2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK280

Introduction to the 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK280

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK280 is a luxury coupe that slots below the CL-Class and above the C-Class in the Mercedes lineup. It is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 228 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The CLK280 offers a comfortable and refined ride, with plenty of power for everyday driving. However, it is not as sporty as some of its rivals, and its fuel economy is only average.

Engine

• 3.0L V6 (M272)
  • Intake Manifold Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The plastic intake manifold can develop cracks, causing vacuum leaks and poor engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Balance Shaft Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The balance shaft, which helps to reduce engine vibrations, can fail, leading to a rattling noise and reduced engine power.
    • Solution: Replace the balance shaft and associated components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Thermostat Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The thermostat can fail, causing the engine to overheat or run too cold.
    • Solution: Replace the thermostat.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip and damage the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve cover gasket can develop leaks, causing oil to leak onto the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Transmission

• 5-Speed Automatic (722.6)
  • Torque Converter Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, causing slipping, shuddering, or loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Valve Body Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve body can fail, causing shifting problems and loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

Suspension

• Front Suspension:
  • Strut Mount Bearing Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The strut mount bearing can fail, causing a clunking noise when turning or driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replace the strut mount bearing.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
• Rear Suspension:
  • Rear Axle Bushing Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear axle bushings can fail, causing a knocking or clunking noise from the rear of the vehicle.
    • Solution: Replace the rear axle bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Electrical

• Battery Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can fail, causing the vehicle to not start or run properly.
  • Solution: Replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to not charge properly.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The starter can fail, causing the vehicle to not start.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Exterior

• Antenna Mast Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The antenna mast can break or become stuck in the up position.
  • Solution: Replace the antenna mast.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Cruise Control Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The cruise control switch can fail, causing the cruise control to not work.
  • Solution: Replace the cruise control switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Heated Seat Element Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The heated seat element can fail, causing the seat to not heat up properly.
  • Solution: Replace the heated seat element.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

Summary

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK280 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems reported by owners include engine intake manifold failure, balance shaft failure, and timing chain tensioner failure. These issues can be expensive to repair, so it is important to be aware of them before purchasing a used CLK280. However, the CLK280 is still a good value for a luxury coupe, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service.