Used Mercedes-Benz CLK240

What to know before buying: Mercedes-Benz CLK240

From 3 forum threads and 1 press test · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• Sources describe the 2.6-litre, 170 hp M112 V6 as a durable and reliable engine.[3][4]W208W209
• The five-speed automatic is praised for smooth operation and convenience in city driving.[2][4]W209
• In W209 owner discussions, the CLK 240 is considered modest in performance and thirstier than the 200 Kompressor.[1][3]W209
• One owner reported about 10 L/100 km, while another car displayed 16.2 L/100 km after an 11 km city trip.[2][3]W209

Typical faults

• On the W209, a failed combined radiator can allow coolant-related damage to the automatic transmission.[3]one sourceW209
• Light early-stage underbody corrosion was reported on one 2002 W209.[3]one sourceW209

  2002–2002

• Crankshaft and camshaft position sensor failures are cited as typical M112 issues, causing hard starting or unstable idle.[4]one sourceW208W209

  M112

• The plastic coolant pipe leading to the expansion tank can become brittle and split, creating an overheating risk.[4]one sourceW208W209

  M112

• One W209 at 21,000 km showed a slight vibration while stopped; it disappeared in Park.[2]one sourceW209

  21 000–21 000 km

Which engine and version to take

• Choose the M112 2.6 V6 if smoothness and source-reported durability matter more than economy or brisk performance.[1][3][4]W208W209

What to avoid

• Avoid the CLK 240 if economy or performance is the priority; comparisons favour the 200 Kompressor or CLK 320.[1][3]W209

What to check at the inspection

• Check the automatic-transmission fluid: black fluid with a burnt smell can indicate overheating and an expensive repair ahead.[4]one sourceW208W209
• On a W209, inspect the combined radiator and transmission because radiator failure can damage the automatic.[3]one sourceW209
• Look for corrosion at the door seams, boot lid and lock area, rear wheelarches, and underbody.[3]one sourceW209
• Test all electrics and climate functions; the source cites parking-sensor, window-regulator, and climate-control faults.[4]one sourceW208W209
• Before purchase, test cylinder compression and run transmission diagnostics.[4]one sourceW208W209

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]forums.mbclub.bg — Недостатъци на Clk 240 спрямо Clk 200?! · forum
2. [2]db-forum.de — CLK 240 (209er) - Mercedes-Benz Forum · forum
3. [3]motor-talk.de — CLK 240 - Mercedes · forum
4. [4]mercedes-info.vercel.app — Mercedes-Benz CLK 240: Элегантность и Надежность · press

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