Why You Need A Mercedes Specialist // CLK Inspection ft. SPR Autos

[@sprautos]

Great edit. Enjoyed doing this one with you buddy. Lovely car.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Sam, it was great seeing you work your magic 👍

[@aq7705]

@@JJonCars when's the next one? spr are good lads

[@qc2731]

Definitely film the return leg with SPR! They are brilliant and its great seeing your car get the attention it deserves 👍

[@JJonCars]

Cheers, will do :)

[@simonbuckingham752]

That's the benefit of going to a specialist, they are very thorough and know the cars inside out. Nice video.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Simon 👍 exactly right

[@Anditover]

My personal experience of using a MB "specialist" is that they forgot to torque the front nearside brake caliper bolts and it actually lost a bolt in the time it took to drive half a mile to the next garage... Why did I take it to another garage? Because despite having the car over a month they didn't check that the aircon was working (after they had allegedly re-charged it) and I noticed it straight away, AND they refused to change the oil in the rear diff. I wasn't going to drive it until it was done, and, that decision saved my life. My car is a 2005 CLK 350 Sport, which in my opinion is the "Goldilocks" size, ie for all practical intent and purposes you get all the power you could possibly need without the ultra high insurance, fuel consumption and more torque than the rear can handle that the 5.5 and 6.3 versions come with. Oh, both my rear springs had broken too, but we only found that out when we removed the rear subframe to get at the rear upper suspension arms that had worn bushes... last Winter was particularly painful to the old wallet.

[@simonbuckingham752]

@@Anditover doesn't sound good. There are going to be good and bad garages whether they are a local mechanic or claimed MB specialist. You were unlucky to find a rogue one. Generally speaking specialists would know more than a 'normal' garage because they only work on a specific make of car.

[@Anditover]

​@simonbuckingham752 The garage in question has a good reputation, and after commissioning an engineers report AND having our local Main Dealership do a free (video) inspection of the car to see if any of the further £1500 of work they recommended was justified, I got a refund on the bits they got wrong, but nothing for the loss of a brake bolt, although they were very red faced (I took a photo of the odometer straight away when the second garage called me, to prove that I had literally driven no miles, and the images sent to me via WhatsApp were contemporaneous with the mileage). I hesitate to call them rogue, but, as I said to Trading Standards, IF you are unfortunate enough to suffer a fatal accident as a result of an error on their part... you're hardly in any position to complain. They also sheared off the plastic drain bolt on the bottom of the rad (they apologised for "forgetting" to mention that, AND didn't spot where the plate that fits underneath the steering rack had been bent and had almost chaffed through a coolant pipe... we had to remove the rad to replace the aircon condensor, and the pipe split as they moved the rad to get access to the bolts holding the condensor in place.... With all that out, I basically said, OK wallet prepare to be shafted.... New rad New hoses New condensor and seals New water pump New thermostat New oil heat exchange and oil filter assembly And new v belt, tensioners and rear discs plus pads and parking brake shoes... It's practically new!

[@Millennial_Manc]

SPR are magnificent - best mechanics I’ve dealt with for any car. Actually fix things to try to save you a bit of money instead of just replacing stuff. Advise you on how to make your car last longer and they don’t replace stuff on a service for the sake of it. You don’t get booked up 9 weeks in advance unless you’re really good. 👍🏼 👍🏼

[@JJonCars]

Couldn't have said it better myself 👍👍

[@PointNemo9]

If I lived in Manchester and owned a Mercedes I would definitely take it to them

[@kumquatbilly]

JJ, I would love to see another video with SPR doing the necessary repairs. As the owner and caretaker of a CLK500 with its 16 spark plugs (that I have yet to replace-ouch!), I was surprised to hear the bit about platinum plug orientation. That is definitely specialist knowledge.

[@JJonCars]

Cheers, will be doing the second video for sure :) Yeah, I had no idea about the plug alignment! I'd have probably torqued them in wrong if I'd done them myself haha

[@peternic1]

I wholeheartedly agree an older Merc needs a specialist. I also discovered Sam's channel a little while ago and I've actually commented a number of times on his vids, "this is why you take your car to a specialist". He certainly knows his stuff.

[@Judith-c6r]

I’ve kept my CLK for 11years. Serviced properly each year. Well worth spending to keep 100%. The biggest issue is finding a truthful expert. Try and use genuine parts as well. Being a Mercedes club member you are able to find the best people in your area. Sometimes the main dealer is best.

[@KingKabukiSushi]

Straight out of the gate with a handy tip for the sticky park brake, splendid! Noticed this issue recently so great timing for a possible easy fix.

[@JJonCars]

I know right. Took me 3 years to find that out!

[@Genjokoan]

Yes, more please. I just bought a CLK430. I have had W124s, 400E and E420 for three decades. But the CLK is new to me. And double plus good what you said about getting a specialist. They can be the difference between a great car and a long nightmare of auto misery.

[@JJonCars]

Ooh, 430, rare beast :) Thanks, there is a follow up video to this one if you want to check it out

[@quoc-baovu8241]

I also love my '01 CLK430, great & reliable car as long as you maintain it well; it has that awesome old-school M113 V8... I love SPR videos as well, always learned new things from Sam since I always try to DIY first. There are tons of mainrenance DIY videos on these older Gen-1 CLK so you can learn a lot about your car, good luck. Cheers,

[@davemitchell8756]

I watch Sam’s channel, if I owned a Mercedes I would trust him to take care of it. The depth of experience is obvious and he’s passing on his knowledge to the young lads. Good move taking your car to SPR.

[@coolcat23]

Yes, please, film the next visit as well. Subscriber of SPR Autos here and great to see Sam working on an CLK 200! Shame about the faults that have accumulated; I had to replace the rear flexi brake hoses on my CLK 200 as well. :) However, as you say, the car is 100% worth it!

[@JJonCars]

Will do :) I think some parts are just at an age now where they're old and need replacing. Definitely worth it!

[@damirzanne]

great video, it’s nice to see people taking care of their cars… I have S550 and love the car .. I live tinkering with it myself , but for things I can’t do I take it to the shop … here in US those cars depreciate tremendously, and people who really can’t afford them , buy them used , and then they skip on maintenance because they can’t afford to pay for it, so eventually they get hit with a big bill , and then it’s cars fault , car is no good … Benz will run for many hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance and service , but you do need to stay on top of the things … I’m happy to see someone else enjoying their Benz just as much as I enjoy mine … cheers

[@JJonCars]

That is exactly what happens here too! People don't appreciate that to run an old Mercedes is going to cost the same as running a new one. They're complex cars with a lot of parts. Cheers, the S550 is a lovely car!

[@zdravkomamic8505]

I really enjoyed this video, it is always good opportunity to learn about maingenance, SPR was really great 😊

[@JJonCars]

Brilliant, glad you enjoyed it :) 👍

[@bernardpowell3582]

Excellent video JJ and a brilliant insight to great service done SPR Auto.excellent video. Thank you Keep it up, looking forward to the next service done on the car at SPR.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Bernard! :)

[@colindavidson4297]

Great collaboration. I watch both channels and have a W203 C32 AMG a W209 CLK350 and a W219 CL55 AMG so love the merc stuff.

[@JJonCars]

Thank you, it seemed like a natural collab to do! Glad you enjoyed it. The CL55 AMG is a very special car :)

[@Rjhs001]

Really interesting vid JJ. I love watching a really experienced person doing their job well. I am referring to the mechanic but of course, the same can also be applied to the other person featuring in the video 😊

[@JJonCars]

Cheers John 😂 I mean, I do agree. Always wanted to hang around the mechanic when they're working but they generally aren't so happy with that (understandably), so quite a good opportunity! When am I finding out what car you've bought? 😄

[@Rjhs001]

@@JJonCars I'm planning to get it Feb/March next year. The current Mrs. Shaw and I are planning a big European road trip next May so I want to have the next motor before then.

[@johnlee2326]

I have clk280 which has the best of both worlds (imo)…. 16yrs on still runs beautifully with regular and proper maintenance ❤

[@stephanjanssen8150]

Hi JJ, great vid, to me it feels extra good , when my merc is in good hands. I ll bring my car also to a specialist for maintenance, they have a pasion for Mercedes Benz here in the Netherlands. For now we have a C 204s (c200 cgi engine /184 hp / automatic) brilliant car, but after this benz, we gonna look for a CLK 280 or 320 to , timeless beautiful design. I always watch your vid's👍 Greetz steven (from the Netherlands )

[@JJonCars]

Thank you Stephan! I know exactly how you feel and it's nice to know there is love for these cars in the Netherlands too. I do like the C204, nice cars. Thank you for watching and commenting :)

[@nickzourb190]

I like the fact you posted the W203 C-Class in the C55 AMG version that had the.... CLK 209 front to accommodate the wider engine ! Cheers from Greece , 2002 CLK200 C209 owner here!

[@JJonCars]

Gotta get more CLK in where possible... To be quite honest I didn't actually notice, but I did think 'I don't remember the W203 looking so much like the CLK' 😂

[@nickzourb190]

@@JJonCars So you accidentally learnt a new fun fact 😛

[@Dylan-xp6pk]

Great to see that you have chosen SPR to look after your car. I have had them give my new to me CLK a heath check for peace of mind, thankfully I bought a good un, phew. Yes, return video please.

[@JJonCars]

Haha yes, phew! Will be doing the return vid :)

[@markhooper1352]

This is awesome JJ! So well done from start to finish 👍 What a champ your specialist...does he want a trip out to Australia to do my A209? 😝 You are spot on tho man...these glorious motors need a Merc specialist tech 100%. Mine's going in to Merc next week for her annual "A". Ps. Your wheels are the sexiest Merc alloys ever produced...I'm jealous as all heck! ❣

[@JJonCars]

Ah, cheers Mark! Much appreciated. Haha, he's a busy man - I tell you what, I'll come and do it instead, though results not guaranteed to be the same 😂 Glad that your car is getting the proper treatment too I love those alloys too, if I do ever upgrade the CLK to an AMG, I'll be keeping them for sure. Thanks again :)

[@markhooper1352]

@@JJonCars hahaha! Let me know when you're on your way over man! Welcome any time! I really would like to get my hands on a full set of those - do you know what they are called (if there is a Merc name for them)? I have the AMG wheels on mine which were probably an upgrade, but gimme yours any day! Totally classy and timeless. I'm on the lookout! 😊

[@rockonbaz]

Perfection in motion!

[@donaldcunningham2386]

Yes please looking forward to next video, really informative stuff!

[@JJonCars]

Coming very soon! :)

[@dantovey2785]

Great video and peace of mind having it checked over by SPR

[@novicetheaf]

Nice to treat your car to some extra TLC, great video JJ 👌, interesting to see some of the common issues on these

[@JJonCars]

Cheers man :) win win for me as it's a video and my car gets some care!

[@Hali88]

wow, the attention to detail! Would like to see the part 2

[@JJonCars]

Me too, I think it's gonna be a go-er :)

[@MartinJones123]

I agree, a specialist who actually knows the particular car well is very helpful... The 2000's Mercs were generally good, however there were some models that were quite bad, mainly the W220 S Class, and the SUV's... But cars like the CLK and E Class were great...

[@JJonCars]

Yeah, I think that S Class is responsible for a lot of the complaints this era gets (you'll note I didn't include a picture of it haha). None of them are perfect, but the longer I've owned the CLK the more I know it doesn't deserve that same criticism. Cheers for watching Martin 👍

[@MartinJones123]

@@JJonCars Yep, the CLK is one of the best Mercs from that era, and your one is in great condition 👍

[@enregistreur]

Very interesting, I may need to find a local specialist before buying my CLK, thanks for the video !

[@rjkulman8990]

you've made a wise choice, SPR cares about you / car

[@JJonCars]

For sure :)

[@michaelhynds8035]

SPR Autos. Fantastic.

[@BrianPaterson-f3i]

Good Chanel is spr sub about year ago and learned a lot about my sl 55 ,pity I don’t live nearby so it’s the next best thing.good vid.

[@JJonCars]

Definitely. Cheers :)

[@dbash2004]

I don't suppose you can buy a workshop manual for the model of merc you have? I know they're online but I am old school and they must have a book paper manual as well?

[@BomberFletch31]

Yes, please do another video with SPR. My dad has a W211 E200 Kompressor with the same engine, so some of this will be directly applicable, although I'm not sure if a W211 will have the same underbody foibles as on a C209.

[@JJonCars]

I love the W211 - one of my favourite Mercs. I'm sure there will be some similarities. I will definitely be doing a second video :)

[@coolcat23]

Did Sam mentioned anything about the corrosion on the spark plug in cylinder 1? Mine had the same rusty patina on it (also cylinder 1). I hope by changing them more regularly than the previous owner (I'll probably go with every five years, just to prevent them from getting stuck in the threads), I won't see rust like that build up again to the same extent. Apparently it is not a big issue, just feels odd as the area is pretty protected. Perhaps it is condensation moisture that happens to build up at the outermost cylinder more easily than at the others.

[@JJonCars]

He didn't. But I think you're right that changing them more regularly will help keep those threads clean.

[@coolcat23]

@@JJonCars Thanks. Perhaps ask him about the rust and how to potentially prevent it from building up again when you get there for the big service appointment. Can't wait for this second episode. :)

[@sphamandlamazibuko3074]

Oh yes, please take us along the journey in the next video.

[@JJonCars]

Will do :)

[@frostwise87]

Wow I was just about to say I use spr autos but that’s my green w124 estate during the intro 😂

[@JJonCars]

Haha nice! Cameo from your car :) I remember seeing it there, love the colour.

[@frostwise87]

@@JJonCars cheers man. She needs a bit of love really. I found your channel as I was looking at replacing it with a w203 coupe, which I think I will now. Great video it was :)

[@josephgonzalez_]

Any recommendations for Merc specialists down in the South East? London or Surrey especially…

[@JJonCars]

I only know the northwest area. Perhaps someone else will comment

[@jacquesvanzyl374]

Once again thanks for a great video Sam. One question , is it possible to change the crank shaft sensor from the bottom when the vehickle is on the lift?

[@coolcat23]

You probably need to ask that question on the SPR channel (not on this JJ on Cars channel). FWIW, I've seen a video where someone accessed it from the top which was nightmarish and some commenter wrote it would have been easier to get at it from the bottom. IIRC, one has to remove some hoses to get access, but that it would be a lot easier than from the top.

[@vikfox8]

Really great content with my favorite car. timing chain service? i did it in 540.000 km ! no way in 100.000 miles!

[@JJonCars]

Thank you!

[@vikfox8]

trust me is not true that the clk need to do the timing chain in 100.000 miles.. Some new mercedeses with renault engine only..the factory manual says 100.000, but only the renaoult engines... the Clk ? is a bulletproof engines. just drive the hell of it

[@JJonCars]

@@vikfox8 which engine though? We were specifically talking about the M271 in the 200 Kompressor. Other engines are far more robust in that area :)

[@vikfox8]

@@JJonCars exactly that engine, m271 kompressor 200 w209. i have exaclty the same car. my mechanich which was mercedes mechanick in germany. says that the timing chan can go over 500.000. in my city there are many CLKs 200 kompressor. trust me there si no one who needed to do the chain after 100.000 no way. theM271 is bullet proof engine. just put miles and miles no problem. mine has 560.000 km and still pulls great

[@vikfox8]

@@JJonCars mercedes company reported that the new a class with renaoult engines they might need timing chain replacement after 100.000 miles. not the Clk which is one of the most relieble cars ever. what your mechanich said i am sorry but is tottaly false

[@lancegraham7722]

The re installation of spark plugs peaked my interest...why does the orientation actually cause mis fires? Never torqued mine just the usual snug fit and a quarter turn and always perfect.

[@JJonCars]

Yes, I'm not sure on that one. If I remember I'll ask Sam about it next time.

[@beautgrainger147]

I didn't like doing any jobs on the mercs we've had in the family, be it this age or older, they need someone who knows how to work on mercs. My grandma had one of these but a 2.7d.. I found the lack of driving feel made for a nerve wracking drive when getting a move on, but it was a decent car otherwise.

[@German-Whip-V8]

Looking forward to the next episode 😂

[@lezivanerrol3697]

I continually advise those who are going to buy a used M.B. make sure you get a P.P.I. and have it serviced by a recommended independent Mercedes specialist. Those garages with the sign - European Car specialists 99% of the time don't cut the mustard. Your local mechanic or a friend do not have the specialist tools or knowledge to work on M.B.'s Even my local M.B. dealership doesn't generally work on "older" models. They send out older cars to specialists they can rely on.

[@nigelbryant5932]

Get your credit card out. Just had my wife’s SLK done by a specialist cost me £2000 as they unearthed lots of little issues. Even though it’s only done 60k and has been serviced by Mercedes every year

[@JJonCars]

These things do accumulate. I guess it depends if you want your car working the way it should. Mercedes dealers don't always do the best checks on the older cars so I'd not be surprised if they'd missed those things. Big bill on yours but as I say, they're complex luxury cars so it's to be expected really

[@r.weaver3769]

This is how specialists are suppose to be. I suppose only independent shops have coolant testers, my dealer claimed they would need to order one if I want my coolant checked. I asked "How are you going to perform a "B" service if your techs don't have all the proper tools to perform one? " "What else is being neglected?"

[@BBS_Robski]

17:51 spark indexing

[@damirzanne]

if you buy original Bosh spark plugs for that car, they’re already indexed in factory, you just tighten the spark plugs to specific torque and they should be perfectly positioned , if you buy some not originally made for your Benz, you will have to index it

[@coolcat23]

Did you get new spark plugs? May I ask which ones? Do you have the exact specification? I found conflicting information online.

[@JJonCars]

I did, but I'm not sure what they are exactly. What I do know is that they are, weirdly, for either the 200K or the AMG55. And they're Bosch. If I do find out I'll let you know

[@coolcat23]

@@JJonCars Thanks a lot in advance!

[@JJonCars]

This is the part number on the invoice :) A0041594503

[@coolcat23]

@@JJonCars Thanks! That rhymes with information I found. That's most likely a Platinum Bosch (FR 6 MPP 332) then. An NGK alternative apparently is the Iridium ILFR6A. AFAIK Iridium plugs have the potential to last a bit longer.

[@JJonCars]

@@coolcat23 No probs! Yep - FR6MPP332 is also mentioned on there :) Thing with spark plugs lasting a long time is, it kinda becomes moot, as you need to take them out every few years to avoid them getting stuck in there. The ones I had in were a bit stiff and squeaky coming out but in terms of condition were fine!

[@artuurdeclercq4634]

I’m looking to buy a 2004 clk 200 kompressor. But the seller says the steering angle sensor is sometimes malfunctioning. Do i need to stay away from the car or not.

[@JJonCars]

Hmm. I'm not sure. I'd say if you're uncertain you might be better to look at a different CLK.

[@coolcat23]

The steering angle sensor is not hard to get to (you just have to remove the steering wheel) and shouldn't be expensive (if you can get one). One that isn't working properly most likely will need to be replaced urgently, as I'm sure the car relies on plausible data for the ESP, etc.

[@malmond5369]

Could you give an idea in the cost of difference for this B service between a specialist and a local garage. Are we talking above 50% more expensive?

[@Millennial_Manc]

@@malmond5369 Their indicative servicing prices are on their website plus a load of other common stuff like gearbox services / suspension / brakes / air con

[@JJonCars]

As Millennial Manc says, best way to find out is to check SPRs website :) as prices can vary from indies, and between different specialists

[@malmond5369]

Yes I’ve seen their prices before I commented. It’s definitely relative between each garage. One interesting question or video idea would be able whether you would recommend to the everyday kind of person for a specialised garage. It’s a nuanced question but if you had a CLK, presumably if you just had a few hundred spare, would you opt for the higher end service or would you just part way for a cheaper alternative. Although they have these fancier tools, if it’s about old cars and basic parts being replaced, I don’t feel compelled paying £750 whereas another garage would do it for £400. Perhaps the best answer is once every 2 years you could go to them?

[@Millennial_Manc]

@@malmond5369 That’s a false binary isn’t it? I went to a different Mercedes specialist in Manchester and they literally nearly killed me because of what they did to a fuel line. You can’t group specialists and back street mechanics and compare them as there’s no consistency.

[@malmond5369]

@@Millennial_Manc interesting comment. I did offer a binary quality level between specialists and local garages. Seems like your comment indicates that’s not the case and best to stick to a local garage whom is reputable

[@Leo555ZZZ]

Interesting to see that Parking Brake release handle trick..

[@JJonCars]

Yeah definitely. Easiest fix ever, but only if you know :)

[@Leo555ZZZ]

@@JJonCars Thanks for sharing that knowledge.

[@arnietwo11]

I'm surprised u don't have your brake calipers painted ? Or have covered all suspension parts, brake pipes with lanoguard ? Likewise those parts and jobs u need done are not expensive if u do it yourself !! I maintain my 2008, CLK and it costs me very little.

[@JJonCars]

Tbh, it's something I should probably do. I need a ramp!

[@bigmarc1008]

Wish i could take mine to SPR but I'm down in Somerset, anyone know of a decent MB specialist in the south west?

[@SmithM1911]

May i ask? Do you use e5 or e10 in your CLK?

[@JJonCars]

I use E10. I'm not necessarily recommending that, but so far no issues whatsoever. And I know Europe has had that experiment going for longer and I've not heard of any issues with CLKs run on E10 there :)

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

Merc Specialist For the North East. Phil @ Staithes Garage. Dunston, Gateshead. 👍🏻

[@petrolhead28]

Cars are luxury items. You can either have a new one and pay through depreciation, or simply maintain and old one.

[@JJonCars]

Exactly 👍👍

[@arturseversons3444]

I don't suppose a plucky old '05 1.6 Civic is worth taking to a specialist? 😄 I'm one of the people who can't be bothered, I'm either servicing it myself or take it to any of the local garages.

[@JJonCars]

Haha, in your case with that car, you're doing the right thing :) it's a honda too so it will keep on trucking whatever you throw at it

[@CemlynRoberts]

Aww my handsome Sam ❤

[@CemlynRoberts]

Please provide part 2.

[@khsmith6242]

What wheels are those?

[@JJonCars]

They were a standard factory option when the car was new, you could get them on the CLS and S Class too. Can't remember what they're called though sorry

[@colinhutchinson5282]

1990's era much better than 2000's

[@fredonline]

Do you get a strange feeling when you see someone else driving your car? For the last 2 annual services of my car, it's been collected from my house and then returned (all done and dusted!) later in the day. It certainly feels strange to me to see someone else behind the wheel, driving my car off down the road! 🤷

[@JJonCars]

Yes, in some ways (though not quite ..) it feels like you're lending someone your pants 😂 you get so used to that car being part of you that it can be a bit weird. I've kinda gotten over it after lending it to Lot76 for a review though

[@CemlynRoberts]

I need to buy a Mercedes for handsome Sam to service for me 😂❤

[@Sha-Ayo]

Im planning to buy a 20 year old Merc/Jag and only get work done by a guy with less teeth than toes, then i will complain to everyone that its not worth getting something you love and everyone should drive a Toyota Yaris instead....- that seems to be half of all forums for luxury cars

[@JJonCars]

Hahahaha exactly right 😂

[@01menyou]

Why do you believe these cars are at 'the bottom of their depreciation curve'? As spares become unobtanuim, the economy continues to sink, pay per mile charging is adopted, I'd say they'll be for nothing, just parts cars.

[@JJonCars]

Thank you, glad you agree!

[@honda2384]

waste of money, better to buy Lexus or Honda - truly fine engineered cars. Driving Honda accord, car 12 years old, everything still original, shocks, bushes, exhaust - electrics

[@JJonCars]

My dad has an Accord, and you're not wrong that they're great cars. But I think you're being a little bit bias here :)

[@sonykroket]

Sam and his team are heroes.

[@alanmartins6349]

Yes, please video your next visit.

[@JJonCars]

Will do :)

[@catalinxnecula]

in and around nottingham, the merc specialists are full of shit. they charge in some cases more than the mercedes dealership and in other cases they have no clue what they're doing. if you want to save money you need to find a garage that doesnt charge an arm and a leg for labor and buy the parts yourself either from mercedes or aftermarket (autodoc)