Living with a 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 convertible is an experience filled with unique charm and the anticipation of sunny weather. After owning my Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 for over nine months, the time has flown by, punctuated by enjoyable drives and road trips that have allowed me to truly appreciate this vehicle.
However, like any car of this age, ownership hasn’t been without its minor challenges. This CLK, now 23 years old, presents a blend of classic Mercedes quirks wrapped in a timeless silver finish. My initial optimism about purchasing a well-priced and well-maintained car proved accurate, as did my expectation of encountering a few surprises along the way.
Why the Mercedes CLK 430 Convertible?
My desire for a Mercedes-Benz convertible has always been strong. Initially, I considered the R107 or R129 SL Class models, but their prices for well-maintained examples were beyond my budget. My criteria also included seating for four and a V8 engine, which naturally led me to the Mercedes CLK.
Last year, a local dealership listed a 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 convertible equipped with the desirable AMG styling package. Throughout the summer and into the fall, the price gradually decreased. By late October, as my work transitioned to fully remote, I decided to sell my existing commuter car and seriously consider the CLK. It boasted a relatively low 74,000 miles and a comprehensive, documented service history. Crucially, it comfortably accommodates four passengers. And, of course, the 4.3-liter M113 V8 engine delivers effortless power accompanied by a satisfying, deep rumble. I made an offer to the dealer, matching the proceeds from the sale of my previous car, and to my delight, they accepted. Looking back, I remain confident that I made a sound decision.
Early Experiences and Quirks of a 23-Year-Old Mercedes
During the first couple of months of ownership, the convertible top was lowered whenever temperatures were above freezing. Whether for a quick errand or a leisurely Sunday drive, the CLK 430 was enjoyed in its open-top configuration. December was unusually mild, with Christmas Day reaching a comfortable 60 degrees. The CLK was driven frequently, almost always with the top down. Even on colder days, a warm coat, gloves, and the car’s heated seats made open-air motoring a pleasant experience.
Then, winter arrived with snow. After letting the car sit idle for a week, I encountered a drained battery. Jump-starting a CLK is not straightforward. The battery is located in the trunk, which was inaccessible with the key due to the dead battery. Instead, I had to access the engine bay, apply power to the car’s electrical system using the positive terminal under the hood, and then finally open the trunk. However, jump-starting proved unsuccessful as the battery was completely discharged and beyond recovery. Being two years past its warranty, a replacement was necessary. I opted for a new AGM battery from a local auto parts store.
Since this incident, I’ve learned to drive the car at least every two to three days or connect it to a battery tender to prevent drainage. The slow battery drain issue is a known quirk that I haven’t yet prioritized fixing. Like any older vehicle, my Mercedes-Benz CLK has a few minor imperfections. In addition to the battery drain, a valve cover exhibits a slight oil leak. The original stereo head unit refuses to play CDs. And a persistent warning light indicates a burned-out bulb, even though all bulbs are functioning correctly. These are all minor issues that are easily manageable and do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the car.
Day-to-Day Living with the Mercedes CLK 430
The CLK feels surprisingly compact compared to contemporary vehicles. This is often surprising because it drives with the presence of a larger car. From the driver’s seat, you find yourself looking down at occupants of modern Honda Civics. It’s actually shorter and narrower than a Mini Countryman. Yet, despite its smaller footprint, it remains remarkably practical. With the arrival of spring and warmer weather, driving became even more frequent.
The CLK even proved to be a surprisingly capable impromptu pickup truck, effortlessly hauling an evergreen tree and four boxwood bushes during one of many trips to Costco. It’s impressive how much cargo the CLK can accommodate. A significant amount of items fit comfortably in the trunk, even with the convertible top stowed, and transporting taller items like five-foot trees is actually easier with the top down than in my wife’s SUV.
One particularly noticeable aspect of CLK ownership is its transformation when the top is lowered. Driving becomes akin to participating in a parade. People frequently stare and admire the car. The CLK’s distinctive styling allows it to stand out amongst a sea of modern crossovers and trucks. Its design is genuinely beautiful in person, possessing a subtle elegance that grows on you over time. Photographs often fail to capture its true presence.
What appears somewhat blocky and flat in images reveals a subtly sculpted form in reality. The front end design effectively bridges classic and modern automotive eras. A formal grille is subtly angled back, acknowledging aerodynamic principles. The oval headlights incorporate integrated turn signals, subtly referencing the stacked headlamp design of the classic Mercedes-Benz 300SEL. The AMG package, with its more assertive front fascia, side skirts, and iconic Monoblock wheels, further enhances the CLK’s clean and sophisticated lines.
Speaking of those Monoblock wheels…
Recently, prior to a road trip, I took the CLK to my trusted mechanic for a check-up. It required two new rear tires, and unfortunately, two of the Monoblock wheels were found to be bent. Apparently, bent Monoblock wheels are a relatively common issue, so common in fact that my mechanic’s shop offers a wheel reconditioning service. Repairing the two wheels cost $200 each. The car also needed a new steering damper. The total bill, including a routine oil change, came to $1,280. While not insignificant, it could have been considerably more expensive.
Nine months into ownership, my enjoyment of driving the CLK 430 remains undiminished. Peter Egan, the long-time editor at large for Road and Track, famously wrote about “Cars of Occasion.” These are vehicles driven purely for pleasure or reserved for special events. Or, as Egan eloquently describes them, cars “whose emergence from the garage makes us feel as if we’re rolling out the big guns.” In the future, I plan to address the valve cover leaks and track down the source of the battery drain. However, for the present, I am happily occupied creating my own special occasions to drive and enjoy this charming Mercedes-Benz CLK 430 convertible.
Photos: Mark Webb
