1999 Mercedes Benz CLK430
Only 11 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 11 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 11
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1999: 11 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1999 | 11 |
| 2000 | 20 |
| 2002 | 4 |
| 2003 | 2 |
Known problem areas
Only 11 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Power train
5 of 11 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission and torque converter.
Show complaint excerpts
The vehicle started back firing and stalling, it suddenly lost all power. Traction lights illuminated on the dash. When the consumer pulled to the side , engine began smoking and the caught on fire.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-12-27
Also filed under Engine and engine cooling
Transmission broke down. While was going in reverse fordward gear went on ,making a loud noise put the lever on neutral and car still going…
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-01-22
Engine and engine cooling
3 of 11 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline and engine.
Air bags
2 of 11 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
Crack along passenger side front air bag on the dash board, is air bag going to exploded? Dealer wants to charge $2500.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-11-15
Service brakes
2 of 11 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Wheels
1 of 11 total reports mentions: wheels.
Show complaint excerpts
On Friday May 30, 2014, at approximately 0200, I was getting on the freeway on 880-s in downtown oakland. I was driving in the far left lane, and there was construction going on.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-05-30
Also filed under Engine and suspension
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2003-12-17Preliminary evaluationClosed 2004-04-22 Engine crankshaft pulley failure
Buy-smart checklist
1999 Mercedes Benz CLK430 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Power train: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Engine and engine cooling: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 2 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1999 Mercedes Benz CLK430 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1999 Mercedes Benz CLK430?
- The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 45% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1999 Mercedes Benz CLK430 have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.