Mercedes-Benz Mercedes CLK 1997-2002 Brakes Specifications
Mercedes-Benz Mercedes CLK 1997-2002

Mercedes-Benz Mercedes CLK 1997-2002 Brakes Specifications

Explore the detailed brake specifications for the 1997-2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK, including rotor dimensions, pad types, caliper configurations, and hydraulic system details. Ideal for maintenance, repair, and performance upgrades.

Updated

Overview Specifications

This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the braking system of the 1997-2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. It is designed to assist owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts in understanding the brake components, maintenance requirements, and performance characteristics. Use the search and navigation instructions to quickly find relevant information. The sections are organized to cover key aspects of the braking system, including front and rear brakes, brake fluid, and ABS functionality.

How to Use

Use the search bar to enter keywords related to the brakes, such as 'front brakes' or 'ABS'. The results will highlight relevant sections and subsections for quick access.

Scroll through the document or use the table of contents to jump to specific sections. Each section is divided into subsections with detailed technical points for easy reference.

Key Specifications

Front Brake Disc Diameter

288 mm

Rear Brake Disc Diameter

278 mm

Brake Fluid Type

DOT 4

ABS System

Standard

Brake Pad Replacement Interval

50,000 miles

Available Specifications

Front Brakes

This section covers the specifications and components of the front braking system in the 1997-2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. It includes details about the brake discs, calipers, and pads, as well as maintenance recommendations.

Brake Discs
  • Diameter: 288 mm (11.34 inches)
  • Thickness: 25 mm (0.98 inches)
  • Material: Ventilated cast iron
  • Minimum thickness after wear: 23 mm (0.91 inches)
Brake Calipers
  • Type: Single-piston floating caliper
  • Material: Aluminum alloy
  • Piston diameter: 57 mm (2.24 inches)
  • Compatible with ABS system
Brake Pads
  • Material: Semi-metallic or ceramic
  • Thickness (new): 12 mm (0.47 inches)
  • Minimum thickness: 3 mm (0.12 inches)
  • Replacement interval: Approximately 50,000 miles

Rear Brakes

This section provides information about the rear braking system, including the brake discs, calipers, and pads. It also covers the parking brake mechanism and its integration with the rear brakes.

Brake Discs
  • Diameter: 278 mm (10.94 inches)
  • Thickness: 20 mm (0.79 inches)
  • Material: Solid cast iron
  • Minimum thickness after wear: 18 mm (0.71 inches)
Brake Calipers
  • Type: Single-piston floating caliper
  • Material: Aluminum alloy
  • Piston diameter: 38 mm (1.5 inches)
  • Integrated parking brake mechanism
Brake Pads
  • Material: Semi-metallic or ceramic
  • Thickness (new): 10 mm (0.39 inches)
  • Minimum thickness: 2 mm (0.08 inches)
  • Replacement interval: Approximately 50,000 miles

Brake Fluid and Hydraulics

This section explains the brake fluid requirements, hydraulic system components, and maintenance procedures for the 1997-2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. It includes details about fluid type, capacity, and bleeding procedures.

Brake Fluid
  • Type: DOT 4
  • Capacity: Approximately 1 liter (0.26 gallons)
  • Replacement interval: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
  • Boiling point (dry): 230°C (446°F)
Hydraulic System
  • Master cylinder diameter: 22.2 mm (0.87 inches)
  • ABS integration: Standard
  • Brake line material: Steel and rubber
  • Bleeding procedure: Requires specialized tools

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

This section details the ABS functionality, components, and maintenance for the 1997-2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. It includes information about the ABS control unit, sensors, and troubleshooting tips.

ABS Control Unit
  • Location: Under the hood, near the brake master cylinder
  • Function: Monitors wheel speed and modulates brake pressure
  • Diagnostics: Requires specialized scan tools
ABS Sensors
  • Type: Magnetic induction
  • Location: One per wheel
  • Maintenance: Clean and inspect during brake service
  • Replacement interval: As needed

Brakes Specifications

Overview

Type
Hydraulic disc brakes
Configuration
Front and rear disc brakes
Platform
Mercedes-Benz CLK (C208/A208)
Material
Cast iron rotors with composite pads
Location
Wheel hubs
Activation
Dual-circuit hydraulic system

Dimensions

Front Rotor Diameter
300 mm / 11.81 in
Rear Rotor Diameter
278 mm / 10.94 in
Front Rotor Thickness
28 mm / 1.10 in
Rear Rotor Thickness
22 mm / 0.87 in
Front Pad Area
55 cm² / 8.53 in²
Rear Pad Area
45 cm² / 6.98 in²
Brake Line Diameter
4.75 mm / 0.19 in
Brake Fluid Capacity
0.5 liters / 16.9 fl oz

Materials

Rotors
High-carbon cast iron
Brake Pads
Semi-metallic composite
Calipers
Aluminum alloy
Brake Lines
Reinforced rubber with steel braiding
Brake Fluid
DOT 4 synthetic

Features

Performance
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
  • Brake Assist (BAS)
Durability
  • Corrosion-resistant rotors
  • Heat-treated calipers
  • Wear-resistant pads
Safety
  • Dual-circuit hydraulic system
  • Automatic brake pad wear sensors
  • Emergency brake assist
Comfort
  • Low-noise brake pads
  • Smooth pedal feel
  • Minimal vibration
Maintenance
  • Easy-access caliper design
  • Replaceable wear sensors
  • Self-adjusting parking brake

Safety Features

Primary Systems
  • ABS with traction control
  • Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Secondary Systems
  • Parking brake with automatic adjustment
  • Brake pad wear warning system
Emergency Features
  • Brake Assist for panic stops
  • Dual-circuit fail-safe design

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Anti-squeal shims
  • Chamfered pad edges
Pedal Feel
  • Progressive brake force application
  • Low pedal effort
Vibration Control
  • Vented rotors for heat dissipation
  • Balanced caliper design
Maintenance Ease
  • Tool-free pad replacement
  • Integrated wear indicators

Accessories

Upgrades
  • Performance brake pads
  • Slotted rotors
  • Stainless steel brake lines
Tools
  • Brake caliper tool kit
  • Rotor micrometer
  • Brake fluid tester
Maintenance Kits
  • Brake pad replacement kit
  • Brake fluid flush kit
  • Caliper rebuild kit

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Service Items
  • Inspect brake pads and rotors
  • Check brake fluid level and condition
  • Inspect brake lines for leaks
  • Test parking brake function
  • Measure rotor thickness
Maintenance Notes
Replace brake fluid every 2 years regardless of mileage

Warranty

Brake Pads
Miles: 30,000
Years: 2
Coverage: Material defects and premature wear
Rotors
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Warpage and cracking
Calipers
Miles: 100,000
Years: 10
Coverage: Seal failure and piston issues
Brake Lines
Miles: Lifetime
Years: Lifetime
Coverage: Leaks and corrosion

Production Details

Manufacturer
Brembo and ATE
Manufacturing Process
  • Precision casting for rotors
  • CNC machining for calipers
  • Automated pad assembly
Quality Control
Rotor inspection: Ultrasonic testing for cracks
Caliper Testing: Pressure and leak testing
Pad Quality: Friction coefficient verification
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycled materials in brake pads
  • Eco-friendly brake fluid
  • Low-emission manufacturing
Production Metrics
Annual Output: 500,000 units
Defect Rate: 0.01%
Lead Time: 4 weeks

Service Information for brakes Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

30,000
24
  • Inspect brake pads and rotors
  • Check brake fluid level and condition
  • Test ABS functionality
  • Lubricate caliper slides
  • Inspect brake lines for wear

Replace brake fluid if moisture content exceeds 3%

60,000
48
  • Replace brake pads
  • Resurface or replace rotors
  • Flush brake fluid system
  • Inspect caliper pistons
  • Test parking brake adjustment

Use only Mercedes-approved brake fluid

100,000
84
  • Replace brake rotors
  • Inspect and rebuild calipers if necessary
  • Replace brake lines if corroded
  • Test ABS and ESP systems
  • Perform full brake system bleed

Requires specialized diagnostic tools for system testing

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

Are these brake pads compatible with all 1997-2002 Mercedes CLK models?

Yes, these brake pads are specifically designed to be compatible with all 1997-2002 Mercedes CLK models, including the CLK 230, CLK 320, and CLK 430. They meet OEM specifications and are suitable for both standard and high-performance driving conditions. Ensure that the brake pads match your vehicle’s exact trim and model year for optimal performance and safety.

Q2

What is the recommended maintenance schedule for Mercedes CLK brakes?

Mercedes-Benz recommends inspecting the brake system every 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Brake pads should be replaced when they reach a thickness of 3mm or less. Rotors should be checked for wear and replaced if they fall below the minimum thickness. Regular maintenance also includes checking brake fluid levels and ensuring the brake lines are free of leaks or damage.

Q3

How do I replace the brake pads on a 1997-2002 Mercedes CLK?

To replace the brake pads, first, lift the vehicle and remove the wheels. Use a brake caliper tool to compress the caliper piston, then unbolt the caliper and remove the old pads. Install the new pads, ensuring they are properly seated. Reattach the caliper and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications. Finally, reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle. Always test the brakes before driving.

Q4

What should I do if my Mercedes CLK brakes are squeaking?

Brake squeaking can be caused by worn pads, dirty rotors, or improper installation. Start by inspecting the brake pads for wear and replace them if necessary. Clean the rotors with brake cleaner to remove debris. If the issue persists, check for loose components or improper alignment. Applying a brake lubricant to the back of the pads can also help reduce noise.

Q5

How can I optimize the braking performance of my Mercedes CLK?

To optimize braking performance, ensure that the brake system is regularly maintained. Use high-quality brake pads and rotors that meet OEM standards. Consider upgrading to performance brake components for enhanced stopping power. Avoid aggressive driving and allow the brakes to cool after heavy use. Regularly check and replace brake fluid to maintain system efficiency.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Mercedes CLK 1997-2002 Service Manual

Coming Soon

This comprehensive service manual provides detailed instructions for maintaining and repairing the 1997-2002 Mercedes CLK, including brake system procedures.

Mercedes-Benz Technical Service Bulletin 2001-03

Coming Soon

This bulletin addresses common brake system issues and updates for the 1997-2002 Mercedes CLK, including recommended fixes and part numbers.

Mercedes CLK Brake Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

This catalog lists all brake components for the 1997-2002 Mercedes CLK, including part numbers, compatibility details, and installation tips.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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