I newbie

[Ugly Bloke]

I am new to the Mercedes-Benz forum, as you can see, this is my 1st ever post on here

I am looking for a CLK430, circa 2000 model would be just ideal. They do seem rather thin on the ground.

So what are the pitfalls/running costs of owning one? Anything in particular to look out for?

Thanks

 

[Blobcat]

Hi & Welcome,

Rust is an issue

 

[PeterCLK]

Also - check if the valeo radiator problem applies to this model.

Apart from rust, cars of that era can be prone to elctrical faults.

Do searches on the forum for all these.

 

[Addy]

Watch out for the MAF sensor as well.
The CLK 430 are not that common.

Maybe just go that little extra and get a CLK55??

 

[bigasotonuk]

The V8 430 engine can be expensive if the spark plugs need replacing as it has 16 (2 per cylinder) and can be a bit of a pig to change, but they do last quite a long time, service period is 60,000 miles or 4 years I believe, but check in the vehicles history as if it is only a few thousand miles before they need changing, you could use it as a bargaining point.
The C43 AMG like mine "apparently" suffer from gearbox problems, and as the 430 is only a de-tuned C43 engine, it reasonable to assume that this might also apply, though mine is ok at just under 130,000 miles. If it drives ok just budget for a gearbox oil and filter change if the vehicle history does,nt show it being done.
I don,t think the valeo rad problem would effect cars before 2001.