Mercedes-Benz CL C215 (1999–2006)

4.5/5
Reliability score Good
Email-verified reliability report

Model and generation reliability insights from verified owners. Variants are selected when adding reviews.

6 Verified owner reports

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Most reported affected parts

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No affected parts have been reported yet.

Engine reliability summary

Petrol

Engine Score Reports Common issues
AMG CL 55 V8 (360 Hp) Automatic (M 113.991) No reports 0 No issues reported
AMG CL 55 V8 (500 Hp) 5G-TRONIC (M 113.991) No reports 0 No issues reported
AMG CL 63 V12 (444 Hp) Automatic (M 137.980) No reports 0 No issues reported
AMG CL 65 V8 (612 Hp) SPEEDSHIFT (M 275.982) No reports 0 No issues reported
Show 5 more engines
CL 500 V8 (306 Hp) 5G-TRONIC (M 113.960) No reports 0 No issues reported
CL 500 V8 (306 Hp) 7G-TRONIC (M 113.960) No reports 0 No issues reported
CL 500 V8 (306 Hp) Automatic (M 113.960) No reports 0 No issues reported
CL 600 V12 (367 Hp) Automatic (M 137.970) No reports 0 No issues reported
CL 600 V12 (500 Hp) 5G-TRONIC (M 275.950) No reports 0 No issues reported

Owner reviews

Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

CLK W209

I bought the car recently as a 'fun car' for the summer. Generally, I'm delighted. Despite its high mileage, my CLK drives like new. Perhaps this depends on my car's service history, as it's always had official Mercedes service. I also own a Mazda CX-5 – the only thing I like about the Mazda compared to the Merc is the lighter power steering, hahaha :) Everything else is a plus for the Mercedes – seriously – it's sensational. I've owned about 30 cars, and the CLK is one of the coolest. Generally speaking, I have

Pros: Drives like new despite high mileage, Sensational driving experience, One of the coolest cars I've owned
Cons: Power steering is heavier than a Mazda CX-5
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

CLK W209 Review

I've owned the CLK W209 270CDI for over 3 years. I bought this unit imported from Italy, which helped avoid typical corrosion issues with this model. The looks speak for themselves – if you're reading this, you likely like this car. It was a childhood dream for me. Finding a good condition model is tough; most on the market have been in serious accidents or have high mileage. If you're looking, I recommend patience and to avoid cars under 20,000 PLN.

Pros: Striking design, Good import example avoid rust, Childhood dream car
Cons: Difficult to find in good condition, Many units have accident history, Likely high mileage
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

CLK W209: A Near-Perfect Coupe

For me, it's almost the perfect car. It deserves at least a 4.5/5 rating. Timeless silhouette, well-equipped for its age, comfort is more than sufficient. Driving pleasure is guaranteed. Economical, especially with LPG STAGG (my previous A4 was constantly having issues with bulbs or suspension). I bought it 3 years ago (end of 2018) and after all this time, I have absolutely no desire to sell it. I think I'll keep it for a few more years.

Pros: Timeless design, Comfortable for its age, Guaranteed driving pleasure, Excellent economy (especially with LPG)
Cons: None significant enough to mention
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

CLK W209 Review

The car is very comfortable, lively, and pleasant to drive. It offers a decent amount of space for 4 passengers, especially for its segment. The trunk is also quite spacious. The engine is faultless; properly maintained, it's reliable. I don't recommend this engine solely for city driving – in traffic with the AC on, it can consume 15l (according to the onboard computer). Perfect for long trips – at 120 km/h, it uses around 5l! Parts prices are reasonable, and nothing serious has broken down.

Pros: Very comfortable and pleasant to drive, Decent space for 4 passengers, Spacious trunk, Reliable engine (with proper care), Excellent fuel economy on the highway, Reasonable parts prices
Cons: High fuel consumption in city traffic with AC (approx. 15l/100km)
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

CLK W209: Pure Driving Fun!

This car is bought for the joy of driving and immense pleasure. Acceleration is above average. At traffic lights, many have been surprised they couldn't catch up. It's a racer that recently beat a motorcycle, whose owner asked what's under the hood, impressed. I'm not a young hothead, but an older gentleman (55) finally able to race those who think they have supercars. Never again another car.

Pros: Exhilarating acceleration, Surprising performance, Pure driving enjoyment, Impressive for its class
Cons: Older car may require maintenance
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

CLK W208

Overall very good. I fondly remember this car, but it was time for a change as the car was getting old. Sensible handling, pleasant fuel consumption. Faults were mainly due to previous owner neglect or heavy use. I'm satisfied enough with this car that I'd probably buy it again if it were simply younger. It's not a BMW with stereotypes, more like a sporty wagon. Sometimes confused with the E-Class coupe due to design, however

Pros: Good overall impression, Pleasant fuel consumption, Sensible handling
Cons: Age-related wear, Potential for neglected maintenance

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