CLK 430

[Gun]

I'm thinking of changing my car in the next couple of months and after trawling through Autotrader I've seen a few CLK 430s in my price range. Anyone got some info on them, what are running costs like, any problems I should be looking out for, I'm looking at cars around X/Y/51 reg.

Thanks all.

[angusc43]

Look for rust round the arches/evidence or re-sprays

Mechanically make sure you're not due a round of new pads and disks.

Try and find out if g/box fluid has been changed.

Clonks at the front can mean lower ball joints.

And check which service is next - there are 16 spark plugs on my C43 and assume it's the same on a 430. Plus 18 HT leads and eight coil packs IIRC.

[MarsellusWallace]

I bought a convertible brand new back in 2001 to upgrade the CLK 320 cab I owned at the time.I was disappointed by the 430-it didnt feel much quicker and the economy was a lot worse.

I only had it 2 months before I sold it again.

[Callughan]

Electronic gremlins are the main issue, make sure you get it plugged to a diagnostic... I had a bad ownership experience with mine, but luckily had the Merc Warranty, if you do a search you can find out more.

The car is almost 6 seconds quicker to a 100mph than a 320.

[GRIMAIG]

Hi there, I have had many Mercedes & 2 years ago bought a 2000 CLK430 Cabriolet. One lady owner from new, 19500 miles, FMBSH. It had a few scratches on the rear bumper from parking incidents, that was sorted out quite cheaply. I am fortunate enough to live near Mercury Motors, Aldershot, superb MB Specialist, 01252 318318, therefore dispatched the car for a Full going over & B service. No problems. What a fabulos car it is. Effortless driving & more than enough power. Consumption, average 22, is not an issue as I only do a small annual mileage. Over the 2 years I have had the plugs, 16, replaced, Air Mass Sensor, all filters, brake fluid & full coolant replacement & a full set of Continentals.
So my verdict is not a cheap car to own but what a beautiful car to have. Take my advice & have a specialist in your back pocket though. Good Luck.

[Gun]

Thanks for all the info, sadly because of insurance reasons I'm having to cross them off my list for now.