Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK320 Problems
Check Engine Light and Engine Misfire
Failed spark plug wires and/or ignition coils can cause intermittent misfires (rough running); the Check Engine Light may also illuminate. Diagnoses of the ignition system will be necessary to determine which components are at fault.
"Crank no Start" Due to Failed Crankshaft Position Sensor
The crankshaft position sensor may fail. Symptoms of this are: The engine will crank—but not start—especially when the engine is warm. The car may start again if it is left to cool off, but it may run roughly or have poor performance.
Third Brake Light
The Third brake light (the brake light on the trunk)becomes broken and disconeected. Brought to dealer and repaired for $390.
Computer Control Modules (Seats, Doors, CD Changer, Brake Lamp Switch) May Fail
Computer control modules for the seats and doors, the CD changer, and the brake lamp switch tend to fail.
Brake Pads & Rotors May Wear After 20,000 Miles
As a way to increase braking performance, the brake pads and rotors are make of a softer material and may be in need of replacement after approximately 20,000 miles; owners should be vigilant about getting their brakes checked.
HVAC Oder Due to Mildew in Heater Box
The heating, ventilation and AC (HVAC) heater box is susceptible to mildew buildup. This can result in a musty odor from the HVAC system, most noticeable when the system is first turned on.
Convertible Models may Deploy the Roll Bar When Driving Over Large Bumps
Going over large bumps in convertible models may cause the roll bar to deploy, rendering the roof inoperative. Special tools are generally required to return the roll bar to its stowed position.
Engine Oil Leak From PCV Vent Housing and/or Engine Inspection Plate
An engine Oil leak may develop from the PCV vent housing on the valve cover and/or the inspection plate on the front of the engine.
Harmonic Balancer May Fail and Damage Timing Cover
The rubber bond in the harmonic balancer can decay, which causes the balancer to move and work its way toward the timing cover. If the balancer comes into contact with the timing cover while the engine is running, it will fracture and damage the cover and potentially other surrounding parts. The harmonic balancer should be inspected at every service.
Transmission May Leak Fluid and Damage Control Module
The electrical connector at the automatic transmission may leak fluid. Over time leaking fluid could migrate through the wiring harness and damage the transmission control module. If that happens a new harness and control module may be necessary to correct the problem.
Check Engine Light On Due to Failed Mass Air Flow Sensor
The mass air flow sensor can fail, resulting in poor fuel economy and Check Engine Light illumination.
ABS Modulator Failure Due to Dirty Brake Fluid
The anti-lock brake system (ABS) modulator assembly may fail due to dirty brake fluid. Our technicians recommend a complete brake system flush every two years in order to help prevent this problem.
Alignment &Tire Wear Issue and/or Clunk or Thud From Front Suspension
Torque thrust bushings in the front suspension may crack and leak oil, this causes steering alignment problems and excessive tire wear. Another symptom of a worn bushing is a clunk or thud noted when turning, on hard acceleration, or hard braking.
Clicking Noise From Behind Center of Dash
A repetitive clicking noise from behind the center area of the dash panel is usually caused by a broken stepper motor actuating arm. The actuating arm controls the direction of air flow in the climate control system. Disassembly of the center console will be required to access and change the broken arm with the updated, reinforced part.
Knocking Noise Over Bumps Due to Worn Sway Bar Link Joints
The sway bar end link joints may wear and cause a knocking noise over bumps. Loose or warn links should be replaced to correct this type of noise.