Radiator for Mercedes Benz CLK-Class CLK320 CLK500 (2003-2006) 3.2L 5.0L

Direct-Fit All-Aluminum 3-Row Performance Radiator for 2003-2006 Mercedes Benz CLK-Class (C209)

What it Does: The all-aluminum 3-row performance radiator replaces failure-prone plastic-tank factory units on the 2003-2006 CLK-Class to maximize heat dissipation, eliminate internal fluid cross-contamination, and stabilize coolant temperatures under heavy load.

The Stock Mercedes Benz CLK-Class Radiator Weakness

Factory cooling systems on the C209 chassis rely on aluminum cores mated to glass-filled nylon end tanks using rubber gaskets and crimped perimeter tabs. Continuous thermal cycling embrittles these plastic tanks, leading to fatigue fractures at the upper hose neck. More critically, early OEM assemblies are susceptible to internal transmission cooler barrier failures, allowing ethylene glycol to contaminate automatic transmission fluid and destroy the torque converter clutch friction linings in 722.6 transmissions.

The Engineering Solution

This upgraded performance unit features 100% aluminum construction with precision TIG-welded end tanks joined to an oven-brazed, high-efficiency 3-row core. By eliminating mechanical crimps and plastic resin components, it completely removes the risk of tank separation and internal fluid cross-contamination. The multi-louvered fin array optimizes airflow dynamics and heat transfer surface area, combating heat soak in both the M112 V6 and M113 V8 powertrains while matching OEM mounting locations and hose interfaces.

What's Included

• 1 x All-aluminum 3-row direct-fit performance radiator
• Protective port transport caps

Technical Specifications

Compatibility

• 2003-2005 Mercedes Benz CLK320 Base 3.2L V6 (M112)
• 2003-2006 Mercedes Benz CLK500 Base 5.0L V8 (M113)

Frequently Asked Questions & Fitment Warnings

Does this fit the C209 CLK-Class?

Yes, this is a direct fit for the 2003-2006 Mercedes Benz CLK-Class equipped with the M112 3.2L or M113 5.0L engine. This product is specified exclusively for the applications listed above and does not fit 4-cylinder supercharged or AMG models with different core dimensions and oil cooler layouts.

Do I need to flush and bleed the system during installation?

Yes, perform a complete cooling circuit flush, replace degraded hoses and clamps, and purge air pockets thoroughly through the expansion reservoir after installing to prevent hot spots.

The Mercedes Benz Standard

Engineered to satisfy demanding European thermal management tolerances, this unit delivers uncompromising reliability and stable operating temperatures without causing CEL faults or cooling circuit irregularities.