2001 CLK430 Rust Bubbles

[shimon]

Hi all. Having just test driven a CLK430 for the first time I'm awes by the V8 engine. However on closer inspection of the paintowrk found numerous rust bubbles and spider cracks around chips. The boot lock also has a large area of rust around it despite the surface paint being intsact. If you press in it feels like it will crumble. Is this common with this age fo car? I am very keen to take this car home but do not want to see it fall apart around the engine!
How are these cars mechanically? Is 85000 miles ok or are there factors to look out for? The steering felt quite light and a little vague to me, almost over assisted. is that normal for this car?

Appreciate your help as I am new to the world of MB problems, just want to enjoy the amazing V8

 

[Shude]

The bootlock is the most common rust spot on W202/208 models and it's prone to rusting because of the rubber "seal" which is a water trap.

Depending on the age of the vehicle and it's service history it may be possible to have the bodywork repaired as a goodwill gesture from MB. Please search for rust and corrosion on the forum for more information.

There will likely be a lot of threads about this subject but do not let this put you off, every car should be treated on an individual basis as lots of cars are apparently corrosion-free. Not mine however, the bootlock has started rusting...

Good luck with your decision!

 

[shimon]

CLK Rust Bubbles

Thanks Shude, quite a lot of useful information and a few horror stories! I thought rust problems were eradicated from the world by Fiat and Alfa back in the day!!

The service is all Mb except one or two, grey area I guess. Last two were MB but not sure how the change of hands will affect things.

Been offered the car at a fair price, so happy to do some toing and froing but not keen on taking on a can of worms.

 

[eGuru]

I picked up my car from MB on Saturday after 3 weeks in the bodyshop. Had small rust bubbles on all four wings and on the bottom of the doors.
Front wings replaced, all rust removed and treated.
The car was cleaned, polished and waxed. Also had a A150 as a courtesy car.
The car looks absolutely beautiful now. Cannot fault the level service at the MB Bedford bodyshop.
Shimon, go to your nearest dealer and show them the problem. I know from this and other forums that some dealers are more helpful than others.
Good luck

 

[LeighW]

I think you'll generally find that 'goodwill' rust repairs will be refused until you've owned the car for 6 months or so. Have a quick search, there's a thread on here on the very subject. I guess the policy is there to prevent unscrupulous individuals buying a rusty Merc, getting it repaired FOC, and selling on at a profit.

For what it's worth, my 00 CLK is also rusting slightly around the rear arches, and next to the boot lid handle. As I had a couple of marks in the paintwork repaired my the non MB dealer I bought the car from, I will be having to foot the bill for my repairs myself.

 

[Cool Mart]

Wooo hoo

Just took a call from MB in Stevenage asking if I wanted all the rust sorted on my S-class before the goodwill warranty period runs out.

Let me think about this for a minute ..... YES !