2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK500

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK500 is a luxury coupe that offers a blend of performance and comfort. It’s powered by a 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2009 CLK include the CLK350 with a 3.5-liter V6 and the high-performance CLK63 AMG with a 6.2-liter V8. All engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the CLK500’s smooth ride, powerful engine, and elegant styling. Common dislikes include the high cost of maintenance and some reported electrical issues.

Engine

5.5L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased performance, and a check engine light. Diagnostic codes often point to issues with the camshaft timing.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also manifest as harsh or delayed shifts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping gears, and failure to shift into certain gears. Can also result in the transmission getting stuck in a gear.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, compressor not running, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, intermittent starting issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and potentially reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, including issues with lighting, wipers, windows, and other electronic systems.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the affected SAM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in northern climates)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust bubbles forming around wheel wells, door edges, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair involving sanding, priming, and repainting. Severe cases might require panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on severity and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, track misalignment, leaking.
  • Solution: Replacing the sunroof motor, repairing or replacing the tracks, resealing the sunroof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Command System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, navigation errors, inability to control audio functions.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit (if necessary).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK500, while a luxurious and enjoyable vehicle, can present owners with a range of issues, some of which can be quite costly to repair. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems are common concerns, and electrical gremlins can also surface. Air suspension issues (if equipped) can also be a significant expense. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in maintenance costs when considering this vehicle. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.