Used 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class Consumer Reviews
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2004 CLK55 AMG Convertible, Fun!
This is luxury and fun all in one. Its too bad a car this wonderful to drive should be so expensive when new, because it really brings out the kid in me. This CLK55 AMG, a Convertible that has a naturally aspirated power plant. Put the top down to explore the open road and its awesome! From my own "fears" about owning an AMG Mercedes, I thought meant lots of maintenance expenses at the dealer. But in fact this car has been anything but! This car can be your everyday driver, or your Sunday fun car! You Choose! It has neither been a maintenance problem or any other waste of time. Just pure pleasure with power, luxury and the quality Mercedes Benz ride with AMG under the hood. I've got about 100,000 miles on her now and she still purrs and roars like a beautiful machine should. I take her to the dealer for service, and never have any problems. Just regular services. What a great car! No wonder the CLK55s are going up in price.
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EX HOT RODDER STILL LOVES HIS CLK 500
I did a 48 state search for this car (found it 4 hours from my home!) I have done virtually all the work on my cars since I was 16. I have only bought 3 new cars in the 59 years I have been driving. My motto has always been: "I never met a car I didn't need to modify for me". That means modify in all ways. The only mods on this car needed involve adding things that did not come on it originally (such as bluetooth) and updating the navagation/entertainment system. It has the right wheels (AMG) so it is the first car ever that I don't have to change the wheels! It has the right engine - more than enough power/acceleration/speed (and economy considering the performance) (my last "hot rod" was a 1987 Volvo wagon with a Mustang Cobra 5.0 with a Tremec 5-speed - like Paul Newman and David Letterman had!). This car is effortless, smooth and secure. The HVAC is great and I like the "Distronic" Cruise Control. It has the right suspension - it rides nice, handles the twisties great and stops like a race car. It does have some options I don't need but I can handle that since I figure I didn't pay for them. And it looks awesome with the top down (and the top is so easy to lower/raise) - and it seats 4.. Based on how new the interior looks (I am very fussy) the materials are tough as well as good looking and luxurious (but I know that from my previous 3 MB's). So far it is easy to work on (better than my 300CE was) and maintain, especially with the help online. I’ve had this car for almost 5 years now and still love it. No disappointments. Interior is holding up beautifully. Got hit in the rear last year and ended up repainting the whole car and getting the headlights cleaned again - car looks new. After 6 years still love my CLK. I’ve had a couple of electronics failures and some failed before I bought it, but nothing that really detracts from the enjoyment of driving, looking at and caring for it. However, being a small collector (6 cars) I feel the same about all of them and they are all special to me.
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- CLK320 CoupeMSRP: $6,99082 mi away
- CLK55 AMG ConvertibleMSRP: $8,000162 mi away
- CLK500 CoupeMSRP: $6,950262 mi away
CLK500 is a Supermodel Girlfriend
It’s beautiful but a real pain to deal with. The CLK500 has been one of my favorite cars that I have owned, even having other more dependable Mercedes. I wanted a CLK since the original came out in the late 90’s and they only got better looking with the second generation. I finally got around to buying the V8 convertible I had longed for and it’s been a rollercoaster relationship since the very beginning. Repairs are costly and many used CLK’s have devalued to a point where buying one could be the same as repairing the a/c unit (which will go out, guaranteed.) As much trouble as the car has given me, from inoperable convertible top to faulty fiber optics in the entertainment components, the engine and transmission have never had a single fault. The V8 is a solid performer needing little more than regular oil changes and fluids topped off. It will eat through gas like it will eat your money if you replaced everything when it broke or failed. After years of defending my love for the car after all of its troubles I can say that it is not the car for everyone, rather for those who simply love the feel of how a naturally aspirated V8 Mercedes convertible drives and at a price that make that enjoyment obtainable to nearly anyone.
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Driving CLK class car IS exhilarating
I always loved the CLK models, especially with AMG bodywork, upgrades and notable performance is something that I have always marveled. I really liked the 208 body, but the newer 209 just gives me chills. These cars are the complete package for me, weighted more towards luxury than sport. I opted for the 320 (over 500) because I would lose my license, be in jail and ultimately would not be practical for me, as I cannot take advantage of the modest 3.2 liter engine in my current daily driving conditions. I have had a few minor repairs during the warranty period. And I have noticed though, each time I (or the dealer) do any maintenance, the car drives notable different, improved & better.
after 5 years and 50k miles
I bought the car with 6k miles on it. I am still amazed with car after 5 years, the way it obeys driver's command. Body style is great. Only changes made to this car are 20inch giovanni rims which makes it look even greater.I heard complain about having one cup holder only. There are actually two cup holders. I own four different vehicles and believe if you keep up with the maintanance and make small changes technology wise to your car, it will give you years of enjoyment, specialy to clk500
2004 CLK55 AMG Cabriolet - VERY HOT CAR
This is a sexy firebreathing head- turner. The best car that I have ever owned. Purrs like a pussycat until you put the pedal-to-the-metal, then it takes off like a bat-out-of- h#**....handles like a snake, no rattles or shimmies or shakes, just glued to the road. Mine is Black/Black/Black. Able to easily blow- away any Z corvette, BMW or muscle car from the line or rolling. Cannot wait until I can add aftermarket chip and Kompressor....will then have 525hp...
Not as good as it looks
Beautiful looking car. BUT, DO NOT PURCHASE NAVIGATION SYSTEM!!! My car has approx. 2,400 miles and has already been serviced overnight due to mechanical issues. The electronics or "toy's" are not all that great.
I LOVE THIS CAR!!
I was very concerned on the maintenance cost for this car but it's really not as bad as you think if you are mentally prepared to expect slightly higher costs. I did have a transmission issue that kept the car jumping into default mode (3rd gear). I hear it is a common issue.. a $900 dollar issue. Other than that (FYI the dealership treated me very well) I brought the car as a weekend car. The power and looks make it practically impossible to NOT drive it daily. It pulls so smoothly from the light that it is not until you look in the mirror or down at the dash that you notice you are moving so quickly. Only car i have driven just for fun like riding my motorcycle.
Superb buy on the used market!
Some little niggly things are problematic, like a center console that doesn't open easily, one cup holder only, sunroof that pauses on closing,and rear side windeow activator issues. But mechanically the car has been perfect through 170K Drives as new. Beautiful, and subtle...and understated beast in the 500 trim.
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Wonderful!
This car brings back the joy in everyday life. It is sporty but luxurious. The ride is smooth, the sound system is rich and clear. The V8 engine is quiet and yet strong. The seats and in interior are comfortable with plenty of comfortable room for 4. The convertible tob is lined giving a quiet ride when the top is on. it makes any trip out a pleasure.
VERY NICE
THIS IS MY 53RD CAR...OVERALL #1 BUT ONLY DUE TO THE COMFORT FOR SPEED REASONING. AN M5 IS MORE COMFORTABLE, A LOTUS QUICKER, BUT THIS IS THE BEST OF ALL WORLDS.
Great Car
Best car I've driven. AMG has done it again
Superlative car but real mileage is poor
The CLK500 cabrio is a fantastic car. No compromises with this car--it doesn't even really need four doors because you can drop to top with the keyfob so backseat passengers can comfortably enter standing up. I use it to get my kids and their carseats in more easily than seating them in our SUV. Performance is fantastic. 0-60 in under 6. I've done 135 in it and there's litterally no difference in handling between that and 65. Braking is astonishingly short. Great car for family guys who want a sports car or tall people--drivers up to 6'7". One warning though: The real mileage you'll get in this car is about 16.5 mpg.
Best Coupe for the Money
The Mervedes 2003 CLK 320 is the best buy in the sporty coupe offerings. With sunroof open and windows down it has the feel of a convertible, without all of the exposure or hassel of the convertible. Smooth characterizes the entire experience.
Fun Car
Fantastic car, built with very high quality materials. With the soft top on, it is very quiet inside. Very powerful engine.
worth the $
Great coupe w/ useful backseat & trunk. Opted for 320 not 500, 320 has plenty of power. interior is rich, grt styling inside/out. test drove all the 2dr 4dr comp, BMW530 was a close 2nd but couldn't match Benz design.
Driving the CLK 500 convertible
Picked up this car one Monday evening after an 8 month wait. I'm delighted I waited for it. Besides being beautiful it drives and handles great. After picking car up left the following morning for a one thousand mile trip. Can't get over how quiet this convertible is. Almost as quiet as my Lexus LS was. Rides like a much larger car. Most of the controls are very user friendly. Going thru the mountains the car hugged the road and took the turns like a sports car. May be the best car I ever owned and I've owned a bunch of them.
smooooth
having traded up from the audi A4, I have been absolutely thrilled with my CLK 320. I love the style, love the way it feels when i get into it and hear the solid thud of the door closing, and the performance has been a pleasure. I've also loved the extras: the way the seats push up to let someone climb easily into the back, the trip computer, the rear mirrors automatically dimming, the automatic sensor in the windshield wipers... to name a few! Drawbacks so far? (just under 10,000 miles)The analog clock loses time, and the rear windows stopped working. My first check-up at 10,000 miles will keep them busy, but I wouldn't trade this car for anything.
Wow that's my car?
A beauty to look at. Fuel economy is good / Los Angeles to San Jose on 1 tank of gas in 105 degree heat. Bose system sounds great. Note: Don't get the keyless go as you'll burn your fingers on a hot summer day. Peeves: No in dash CD player (can't even recognize CD-RW for that matter) Road noise on concrete freeway overpasses
Fun and fast CLK500
I traded in my CLK320 for the CLK500 and what a differecne in speed, torque, and handling. The CLK500 is built solid and runs like a dream. As for the comment by another review about an oil dipstick, why? use the computer to check your oil, that's what Mercedes is all about. Nothing beats this car in build, reliability, and interior qualtiy. The Bose system is awesome thanks to the new digital wiring and sound.
Love it
Great car-would like better use of wind screen. Instlation, storage,and design could be better. I find the computer system for information can be difficult to use such as oil level, time change etc. Of course it would nice if the trunk could be larger even at the expence of the back seat being a little smaller(hard to get my golf clubs in & out of the trunk. Also somewhere to place a second coffee cup. Having said all that, I love the car and would recommened it to anyone. P.S. I got my brother to buy one in 2006.
Finally, its mine
Took 5 years to talk the prior owner out of it. Its fast, handles like its on rails, its an AMG, bullet proof running gear, while the peripherals fall of it and cost a small fortune. Dont care, its mine. Put the roof down turn up the “stereo” and smile at my wife of 30 years. Life is good
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A Styling Classic
Among the earliest CLK 500 Cabrios shipped. Superb styling and remarkable acceleration with pedal to floor. Also drive a '67 427 stick Vette so I speak with some authority. Minor problems with driver's seat belt "presentor". Early navigation system difficult to use, improved later in year but dash/wood/knob styling looks much better than improved GPS version. What's more important? I'm a style geek. Gas mileage seems poor to some because take is small! Get 23-25 on highway, 17-18 city driving. Top operation slick. Hard to understand why anyone could not love this car. Still get many great comments into 5th year. Wish it ran on regular gas! More power not essential with this car.
First Sports Car.. I love it!!
Fast great handling, SEXY car. I love it and would recommend to anyone as a head turner. Gas mileage is as expected, not your everyday driver. 4 sets of brake pads set me back 400 dollars at the dealer. No way to keep the factory look and add satellite radio unless it was already installed. Changing the head unit is not an option unless a custom bracket is fabricated. Verify the one you buy has the wiring to attach the bluetooth adapter for your hands free calling by taking it to the dealer. Adding it later is very expensive.
2004 Mercedes CLK 500 Cabriolet
One of the nicest looking Convertibles on the road today at a reasonable price. I love its Power and Speed. Fuel Economy is pretty good also. Definitely A Fun Vehicle, especially for my children.
you will love it
Pre-owned with 7k miles, over a year now and I still try to find any excuse to be out driving it. Acceleration is amazing, 5 years old and still a head-Turner. Few minor things went wrong but all were covered under the warranty. I drove many Mercedes, BMW's and prosches, and I can tell you this one combines the power of a Porsche with the luxury of a Benz.
Go baby
Had a few problems at first. The car was designed over the heads of the people who fix them. But when it was fixed. It's a really great car. I have owned 60 cars in my 53 years on earth and they did a good job the only one I would rather have is a sl 55
Beauty
This is a beautiful car. I get so many comments from all kinds of people:) Of course my family somehow thinks I'm rich! I will always drive a Benz. The car is so smooth. Before you know it, you are exceeding the speed limit. I stay on high because you get so much love. It feels so good to drive a Mercedes!
Becareful
This is now my second CLK320 Coupe. My first was a 2000 CLK320. This is turning into my worst nightmare. My first CLK was in and out of the workshop, and now in my 3rd week of ownership of my 2004 CLK320, I have to make it into the dealership b/c my lighting cluster (which houses my sunroof operation) is completely out. I can't close my sunroof! I think now (although I'm a huge M- B fan) I've lost complete faith in the company. This will most definitely be my last mercedes.
defects
The front seat broke. The xenon head lights broke. The window wipers broke. The sun roof failed. Simply put, the car is an electrical nightmare. Will never go with Mercedes again.
Amazing Car
Certainly the best car I have ever owned and the most fun to drive. I finally decided to go with some elegance in my sports car purchases and couldn't be happier. This car is stylish, feature rich and a monster when called upon. I would recommend this car to anyone considering a upper- crust sports car or who wants some oomph in a stylish daily driver.
Too many malfunctions
A beautiful car inside and out, but too many malfunctions. The tires only get 10- 12,000 miles. Automatic transmission failed after 30,000. The front upper console light panel blew after 1500 miles. Passenger window motor and headrest motor have needed to be replaced. Moonroof cables needed to be replaced after 25,000. Good mpg (24-26), and very comfortable and quiet.
Poor Quality At Mercedes
Love the look and the concept. Hate the hassle. Have clk 500 with all the options and 26k miles. So far communications computer failed, blinker lights on panel failed, brakes squeak, fan sounds like jet engine, paint on hood and other places is blistering, stalk for cell phone broken, seat seam is coming lose. Car is nightmare and this is not unusual from what I read. When you lay this on top of "normal" maintenance you are into serious dollars.
Awesome vehicle
I just sold my G35 and bought the CLK320. The Mercedes build quality and interior is by far superior to most vehicles. This vehicle handles well, has great speed and looks beautiful. I added appearnace package, sunroof package, lighting package, cd changer, and heated seats. The hand carved walnut is beautiful with the black leather interior.
CLK's are great
This is clearly the best vehicle we have ever owned. It's the perfect size for us, it's fun to drive and it's very safe
This car is absolutely gerogeous!
I traded my 2002 CLK320 Cab for this care. It is fast, far more comfy for rear seat pasengers and just a delight to drive.
clk500
What an absolutely beautiful, FAST eyecatcher. My ONLY gripe is the cupholder location and the lack thereof of more than one. Barring these minor imperfections this car is a jewel!!!
Mikes CLK
UNREAL CAR there is nothing better real class car
HAPPY AS A CLAM
ALWAYS DREAMED OF OWNING ONE--NOW I KNOW WHY!! THIS THING IS CLASS ON WHEELS!! I'M NOT A SHOWOFF, BUT I CAN'T HELP IT. FOLKS CONGREGATE AROUND THIS BEAUTY. CONSIDERED BMW AND LIKED IT VERY MUCH, BUT FOR A BEAUTIFUL MIX OF STYLE, PERFORMANCE AND COMFORT, YOU CAN'T MISS WITH THE CLK320!!!!!!!!!
CLK and Truth
I have owned this car for all of 1 month now. I read the reviews and everyone has an opinion. For the most part good, a few not so good perhaps. I have been a BMW driver for over a decade and this is my first Mercedes Benz. While I am used to a younger, sportier appeal in cars, the CLK 320 has changed my whole view of MB and the definition of fun, safe, sporty and elegant. If you have reservations about this car at all, I'm here to put your mind at ease. You will not be disappointed. You will probably drive this car for a long long time. My commute has become the fun part of my day!
2004 CLK 500 Cabriolet
The most fun, responsive car I've driven. Have had no problems with vehicle since purchase. Only problem, it has only one small, short cup holder up front, otherwise, I love it!
EXCELENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I LOVE THIS CAR
Truly Outstanding!
What an elegant yet sporty vehicle! It drives like a dream and is such a head- turner. I think the appearance package is a must as is the burl walnut steering wheel. The wheel coordinates nicely with the walnut interior. It's a fantastic lovely convertible; much nicer than all of the others out there!! I rarely drive anywhere without someone commenting on it's loveliness!
CLK500 cabriolet
Road handling is superb, accelleration is responsive at low, moderate and highway speeds. Seating is comfortable and it has usable back seating for two adults.
Black CLK 320
Styling of the black interior and exterior of our CLK coupe is what determined our buy, plus the good over all experience of the l998 E 320 sedan we turned in with excellent engine and ride performance. I do wish the doors had a more solid feel when shut on the CLK
Quality remains only what Mercedes knows
Once one owns a MB they understand what it is to own a MB and will never consider another car. The total absense of any noise... rattles do not exist.. noise does not exist... true quality built throughout... and you feel good about the car and yourself every time the ignition is energized.
Mercedes Benz CLK Cabriote 500
bought the car 8 weeks ago its a perfect car! It handles , its fast , its beautiful Its FUN. If your considering the car do it you will love it. I bought the car in silver with charcoal interior and a black top we ordered it with the navigation as well as heated seats , special CD sound system , wood steering wheel we ordered wit the 500 motor the car is fast fast fast and smooth smooth smooth.
CLK 500
I have owned several high performance cars including 2 BMW's. The CLK500 is, without a doubt, the best car I have ever driven - and I loved the Bimmers. It looks beautiful (I get compliments from strangers all the time), and it drives even better. The engine's performance is thrilling and the handling is superb. It is absolutely a thrill to drive. A friend of mine traded his brand new E500 for a CLK500 after riding in mine! Its also much more practical than the SL series or the SLK, because it has a functional back seat (I have two young teens to haul around), although not very good for long trips.
Review of 2004 CLK 500 Convertible
This car is abosolutely great in every way!
New CLK 500 Cab
Took delivery of CLK 500 Cabriolet this month. So far have had no problems with the car. I ordered it in september and it has been worth the wait. Keyless go is great. The seats are very comfortable but wish I had had the foresight to order ventilated sport seats.