2009 Mercedes Benz CLK350
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Mercedes Benz › CLK350 › 2009
These records cover every 2009 Mercedes Benz CLK350. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
3 recalls name the 2009 Mercedes Benz CLK350. Newest first.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2001-2011 C-Class, CLK, E-Class, and CLS vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The glass sunroof panel may not be properly secured and can detach.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A detached sunroof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the sunroof panel as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 10, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall number 22V-954. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2024120001/2/3.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2001-2011 C-Class, CLK, E-Class, and CLS vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The glass sunroof panel may not be properly secured and may detach.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A detached sunroof panel may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the sunroof panel as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 3, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall expands NHTSA recall number 19V-918. MBUSA's numbers for this recall are 2023010004, 2023010005, and 2023010006.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2001-2011 vehicles. The bonding between the glass panel and the sliding roof frame may deteriorate, possibly resulting in the glass panel detaching from the vehicle. For a full list of the affected models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2019/RMISC-19V918-4126.pdf
Risk and remedy
Risk
A detached glass panel can separate from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the glass panel bonding and replace the sliding roof, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began July 10, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020040011.
Owner complaints
8 complaints1 involved a crash2 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Visibility › Defroster/defogger/hvac system › Air handler/chamber, ducts, and valves
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes - Benz CLK350. The contact stated he turned on the air condition of his vehicle and an odor of mold came from the vents. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and stated that there was no recall for that failure. The manufacturer was contacted, and they also stated that there was no recall for the failure and advised the contact to call the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was 40,030.
- Seats › Front assembly › Head restraint
TL* the contact owns a 2009 mercedes benz clk350. the contact stated that the front driver seat headrest air bag exploded while driving, as a result, the contact sustained loss of hearing in her left ear that required medical attention. The contact stated that the vehicle's sos system alerted her…
TL* the contact owns a 2009 mercedes benz clk350. the contact stated that the front driver seat headrest air bag exploded while driving, as a result, the contact sustained loss of hearing in her left ear that required medical attention. The contact stated that the vehicle's sos system alerted her of a failure and a tow truck was sent to the scene. The vehicle was towed to rbm of alpharetta (345 mcfarland pkwy, alpharetta, ga 30004) however the failure had not been diagnosed as the dealer was waiting for the manufacturer to advise and send a field inspector to the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 123,000.
- Visibility
TL* the contact owns a 2009 mercedes benz clk350. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken for state emission testing and she was informed that the vehicle was included in nhtsa campaign number: 19v918000 (visibility) however, parts to do the recall repair were not yet available. The contact…
TL* the contact owns a 2009 mercedes benz clk350. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken for state emission testing and she was informed that the vehicle was included in nhtsa campaign number: 19v918000 (visibility) however, parts to do the recall repair were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Neither the manufacturer nor the dealer were made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes · Unknown or other
Driving straight about 25mph along a an otherwise empty residential street. Experienced multiple micro-bursts of sudden, brief, violent, unintended braking. Driver's foot was nowhere near the brake pedal. Braking was so violent that the wheels locked up and made skidding sounds and occupants were…
Driving straight about 25mph along a an otherwise empty residential street. Experienced multiple micro-bursts of sudden, brief, violent, unintended braking. Driver's foot was nowhere near the brake pedal. Braking was so violent that the wheels locked up and made skidding sounds and occupants were shaken. Each incidence of braking was very short, perhaps a fraction of a second. The first occurrence (while traveling ~25mph) there were about four separate "brakes" within a few seconds. This occurred only two blocks from home. I proceeded home at a much slower pace with the emergency lights flashing. En route I experienced several more incidents of sudden, brief, violent unintended braking. no warning lights (e.g. Esp) flashed during any of the braking episodes. Even at low speed on a empty road the unintended braking was so violent as to leave me shaken. if it occurred at high speed, on a busy road, and/or of with an inexperienced driver the consequences could have been serious.
- Air bags
I was involved in a car accident last february, my airbag didn't deploy as compared to the other vehicle (toyota) where her airbag worked. My car and the other person's car were totaled. I was driving on the middle lane of a 3 lane road when the driver on the right side lane hit a parked vehicle…
I was involved in a car accident last february, my airbag didn't deploy as compared to the other vehicle (toyota) where her airbag worked. My car and the other person's car were totaled. I was driving on the middle lane of a 3 lane road when the driver on the right side lane hit a parked vehicle on the right side of the road, spun around, and cross over to my lane and hit me head on. A road due to my accident, I sustained a fracture of my neck and still have ongoing physical therapy treatments. *Tt *tr
- Wheels
The TPMS constantly displays false warning messages about the tires being low on pressure. this began about two years ago, when the car was 7 years old, 100K miles. numerous trips to the dealer and other repair shops has not alleviated the problem. TPMS constantly giving a false warning…
The TPMS constantly displays false warning messages about the tires being low on pressure. this began about two years ago, when the car was 7 years old, 100K miles. numerous trips to the dealer and other repair shops has not alleviated the problem. TPMS constantly giving a false warning about low tire pressure IS a serious problem. much like smoke alarms which give false notice, false tire pressure warnings will be ignored. the vehicle IS typically in a moving condition when the TPMS issues a false alert.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2009 mercedes-benz clk350. While operating the vehicle, the odor of fuel was present. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the seal connected to the fuel pump was faulty and the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 38,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Strong fuel odor outside of vehicle following fill up. Mileage 59590.just purchased used without extended warranty.. Have not taken for service. Will seek info prior to taking to mb service.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11009122Complaint Washer fluid system leaks Cause Various possible causes: 1. Washer fluid reservoir itself. 2. Seal on washer fluid pump/washer fluid reservoir. 3. Washer fluid pump. 3.1. Distributor housing leaks. 3.2. Pump fitting leaks. 3.3. Washer fluid hose cannot be snapped into place on pump fitting. 3.4. Washer fluid hose will not stay on pump fitting, although connector OK. 4. Washer fluid line. 4.1 Connector will not stay on pump fitting because it is broken. 4.2 Sealing ring in connector missing. 4.3 Sealing ring in connector fitted, but deformed and therefore leaks. 4.4 Damage to washer line by animal. 5. Seal on heating washer fluid reservoir/washer fluid reservoir. Remedy Replace defective component parts only. Do not replace any adjacent component parts that are intact. Note: Repair kits for washer line hoses do exist to allow patches for line damage.
- 11008091Complaint During a phone call, the called party has difficulty understanding/cannot understand the driver, or interference/background noises are audible to the called party during a call. It becomes increasingly difficult to understand as the speed rises. Cause A. Seating of the microphones in the headliner. Side edges are covered by the textile cover (see picture "1") B. Assembly of microphones (B25/20 or B25/21) in the headliner. C. Dirt inside the microphone housing Remedy 1. Press finger on rear of microphone (on adhesive tape) 2. Remove microphone cap from the front 3. Eliminate protruding material residues of the microphone cutout at the headliner, e.g. with a soldering iron. The microphone must be seated in the headliner as shown in picture "2". 4. Push microphone from behind until it is firmly pressed into the headliner 5. Maintain pressure and press/clip cap into microphone from the front. Note: The cover cap must be clearly heard and felt to engage. 6. This procedure must be carried out on both microphones (B25/20 and B25/21) Note: It is recommended to replace the cover caps. The non-woven cloth in the cover cap protects the microphone from soiling and must not be removed. NOTE: The information contained in this document is intended for use by trained, professional technicians with the knowledge to properly and safely perform diagnosis and repairs on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, using Mercedes-Benz approved tools and equipment. It informs service technicians about conditions that could occur in certain vehicles and provides information that could assist in proper vehicle diagnosis, service, or repair. It does not indicate that a defect is present in any vehicle referenced in this document nor does it imply warranty coverage. DO NOT assume that a symptom or condition, or a described cause of a symptom or condition, affects any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles, or that a described repair applies to any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles. There can be multiple causes resulting in the same or similar symptoms or conditions described in this document, and trained professional service technicians must use their diagnostic skills to make evaluations on a case-by-case basis. The information contained in this document does not guarantee warranty coverage nor does it extend the vehicles warranty in any way.
- 11007974Complaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp. A leak test must be performed to determine if physical fogging exists or if the headlamp is leaky. Remedy In advance, observe LI82.10-P-078301 "Headlamps or Front Fog Lamps Leaking or Fogged". 1. Prepare headlamp/check for external damage: For headlamps with a closed system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and check also for correct seating of the Gore-diaphragm/correct latching of the cover caps. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. For headlamps with an open system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and seal off the vent then make sure the cover caps are latched correctly into place. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. Note: A headlamp with external damage is not a warranty or goodwill case. 2. Leak test of headlamp with overpressure: Connect test adapter to pressure tester. (Figure 1) Check test adapter for leak tightness. To do so, connect plug and coupling (picture 2) and apply a maximum overpressure of 30 mbar. The pressure must remain constant. If the pressure does not remain constant, use a new adapter. Seal all the outlet openings using sealing compound and the given diaphragm with the plunger (picture 3). (Picture 4) Make allowance for the different headlamp variants here (there are different outlet openings). Check if the headlamp needs to be removed to gain access to the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. Plug the adapter onto the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. (Picture 5). Apply a maximum of 30 mbar overpressure to the headlamp housing. Note: If the maximum overpressure of 50 mbar is exceeded the headlamp seal will be damaged. If a pressure drop of less than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is not leaky and the problem is down to natural physical fogging. If a pressure drop of more than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is leaky. Note: The leaky position can be localized with the aid of soap suds. Replace any leaky headlamps. Note: Desiccant packs can be installed for headlamps that are not leaky. See: LI82.10-P-064766 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - open ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - closed ventilation system
- 11007753Complaint Headlamp or front fog lamp leaky or fogged Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. Headlamps comply with all applicable standards. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the hood or trunk. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing fogged/condensed halogen/xenon headlamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4F). Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch off the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Note: If there is no visible reduction in the formation of condensation, check the headlamp for a defect. (See Remedy 2) It is not physically possible to defog the headlamps completely. Fogging does not impair the operation or the service life of the headlamp. Remedy 2 A Damaged headlamp can be identified as follows: 1. Check the headlamp for external damage and that the cover caps and the diaphragm are correctly seated. 2. Check the electrical connectors of the plugs and pins. 3. Check for leak tightness in accordance with LI82.10-P-078307. The test can only be conducted on headlamps. 4. If the headlamp or the rear lamp has any external damage, replace the component part in accordance with the WIS instructions. Note: External damage to the headlamp/rear lamp or faulty seating of the cover caps does not present a warranty or goodwill case. With headlamps, it is possible to install desiccant packs if the problem occurs repeatedly. Open ventilation system: LI82.10-P-064766. Closed ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304
- 11005294Complaint Rear lamps fogged up/not leaktight. Cause Fogging of the rear lamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. This does not lead to any technical impairment of the rear lamps. Remedy Rear lamp: Remedy 1: Clearing fogged/condensed rear lamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) Note: Do not wash the vehicle or subject it to high-pressure cleaning before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the trunk. 4. Switch on the exterior lighting. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation -> a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (defogging progress).
- 10252770As previously reported, to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, avoid further costs of litigation and return focus to its core businesses, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) has entered into a Settlement regarding claims relating to allegations that the 590 Mars Red paint available as an original, exterior color option for certain models of Mercedes-Benz vehicles may experience peeling, flaking, or bubbling of the exterior paint or clear coat. This Mars Red paint is sometimes referred to as Fire Opal. The purpose of this update is to alert you that: 1. The Settlement has received final approval. The Settlement will go into effect on March 11, 2024. As of that date, customers are eligible to receive extended warranty coverage under the Settlement. 2. Under the Settlement, an eligible customer might receive extended warranty coverage as of the date the vehicle is presented to your dealership OR certain customers might have validated Qualified Future Repair claims, making them eligible for a different level of coverage. To determine if a customer: (a) is eligible for extended warranty coverage; and (b) what level of warranty coverage is available to them, please refer to the Service Packages section in VMI/Netstar. 3. Damage code 21800 (damage type 00) must be used for warranty claims covered pursuant to the Settlement. Please note that you should only claim for the percentage of warranty repair cost reflected in VMI/Netstar (see below, e.g., for Period Two, claim only 50% of warranty repair cost). 4. Before the dealership agrees to perform any work: The customer should be given a Repair Order containing: (1) an estimate for the repair, (2) the portion covered under the extended warranty; and (3) the customers contribution amount for the repair, if applicable. The customer must agree to pay their contribution amount for the repair and sign the Repair Order before the repair is performed.
- 10248162Crease formation on genuine leather seat covers in vehicles with low mileage Objects left on the seats for extended periods of time (pressure marks). Objects wedged between the seat backrest and seat cushion (e.g. seat belt buckle). Light initial creases due to vehicle handling. Light creases in the outer covers originating from the production process (missing finish). Heat treatment of the seat covers using heat gun and plastic wedge. Be very careful to not overheat the seat material!
- 10181124Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D or R
- 10176670To enhance the satisfaction of our customers, avoid further costs of litigation and return focus to its core businesses, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) has entered into a settlement regarding claims relating to alleged mold and mildew type odors originating from the HVAC system in certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles. As part of the settlement, MBUSA has agreed to offer sliding-scale warranty coverage for certain vehicles diagnosed as having mold or mildew type odors originating from the HVAC system?although that coverage will not take effect until the settlement is judicially approved and other events occur; likely not until December 7, 2020 at the earliest (see below). If the settlement becomes effective, coverage will include cleaning of the evaporator and replacement of the HVAC filters
- 10167553Combination message: "Clean fuel filter" is displayed. The fault code 162500 (water level message - Bosch) or P226997 (water level message - Delphi) or 171600 (filter load - Bosch) is stored in the engine control unit.
- 10166994Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). Heard once when changing from forward to reverse (and vice versa)
- 10166976Message in instrument cluster "DISTRONIC PLUSCurrently Unavailable - See Owner's Manual"
- 10166975This Customer 1 Action has been initiated because certain mbrace subscribers were recently contacted by mbrace informing them that they need to have an i-button call performed to ensure their mbrace device has registered with the Verizon Telematics systems. If the i-button call failed or if the customer was unable to perform the i-button call, the mbrace agent instructed the customer to make an appointment with their dealer to have the issue corrected and/or i-button call performed. The vehicles impacted range from model year 2002 to 2014.
- 10166099Pneumatic comfort systems with insufficient performance, entirely inoperative or leaky.
- 10166087The presence of a quiescent current can have several causes. These are not always recognized and lead to an increased number of OK components being removed. Possible Hall sensor faults or normalization faults can exist which can be eliminated without replacing the control unit.
- 10166081Noise complaints when load on backrest frame changes. Affects the driver and front passenger seats. Also perform the remedial action if you are performing work on: - backrest frame - backrest cover or - guide rail of head restraint. If the backrest frame is exposed as a result, the actions must always be performed in order to avoid follow-up repairs.
- 10158329Oil in engine wiring harness
- 10151959Seat belt extender toothed rack sluggish or makes noises
- 10135628iPhone mobile phone: Various complaints after software update to iOS8
Every Mercedes Benz CLK350 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.