CLK320/500 CLK55 A few Questions

[Andre]

Hi,

As above please ...

2003 onwards models, should these be referred to as C209 or W209?
Which model year will give me the ability to upgrade the installed factory audio system to bluetooth (does the car need to specifically come with Sat Nav for example?).
Is rust an issue on these cars like it was on the previous CLK?
And finally -for now - assuming a good service history is there a mileage wall where its all starts to become expensive (relatively of course)?

Thanks in advance

Andre

 

[NAZ_]

Hi Andre - good talking to you today. So in response to your queries, 2003 onwards CLK is the w209 model. As for Bluetooth, I believe that the car needs to be equipped with the phone kit which comes with a phone cradle inside the front centre armrest - as long as you have this you can connect the Viseeo module which gives you Bluetooth and allows you to use phone functions on the steering wheel and head unit. Rust can be an issue especially under the rear arches so check carefully. As for mileage, the AMG engine is bullet proof and a friend of mine sold his (as you know!) with 100k on the clock with no major issues. Common issues appear to be electrical gremlins particularly affecting heated seats. I have owned a CLK320 previously and it was a lovely car but the CLK55 is in a league of its own and cannot be compared in both handling and performance - if you can find a decent example go for the CLK55! One issue to look out for is the valeo rad affecting earlier models - there are plenty of threads on this forum relating to it.

Good luck with your search and keep us posted.

 

[Andre]

Thanks for the info Asif and very useful conversation yesterday. I am now on the look out for a CLK55.

Thank you again.
Andre