2003 Mercedes Benz CLK430
Only 2 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 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1999 | 11 |
| 2000 | 20 |
| 2002 | 4 |
| 2003 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES- BENZ CLK 430. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 40 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE BECAME RESISTANT TO ACCELERATION ATTEMPTS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20111222
1 of 2 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ S430. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT OUT OF PARK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20140613
1 of 2 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ S430. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT OUT OF PARK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20140613
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2003 Mercedes Benz CLK430 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2003 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 2003 Mercedes Benz CLK430?
The most-reported component is vehicle speed control, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2003 Mercedes Benz CLK430 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.