MERCEDES CLK (1998)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 800 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
77%
Total Tests (2024)
800
Avg Mileage
102,449 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 1998 MERCEDES CLK reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 26 years old, 77% of MERCEDES CLKs from 1998 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 800 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 102,449 miles.
How does the 1998 MERCEDES CLK compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1998 MERCEDES CLK has 102,449 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 192,400 miles for a 26-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES CLK?
The most reliable year is the 2000 model with a 81% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 75%. The 1998 sits between the two at 77%.
How much does a 1998 MERCEDES CLK cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES CLK by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 90% | 30 | 61,131 mi |
| 2011 | 75% | 40 | 64,021 mi |
| 2010 | 77% | 152 | 92,126 mi |
| 2009 | 76% | 6,353 | 97,542 mi |
| 2008 | 75% | 5,758 | 104,878 mi |
| 2007 | 76% | 8,003 | 106,765 mi |
| 2006 | 76% | 7,045 | 106,273 mi |
| 2005 | 76% | 8,463 | 107,835 mi |
| 2004 | 76% | 8,352 | 105,633 mi |
| 2003 | 78% | 6,287 | 105,487 mi |
| 2002 | 78% | 3,392 | 106,379 mi |
| 2001 | 79% | 2,542 | 103,971 mi |
| 2000 | 81% | 2,099 | 102,251 mi |
| 1999 | 78% | 2,485 | 103,421 mi |
| 1998 | 77% | 800 | 102,449 mi |
| 1997 | 75% | 138 | 86,436 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES CLK?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1998 MERCEDES CLK
The 1998 MERCEDES CLK is a performance with a 3199cc petrol engine. 800 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 1998, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 102,449 miles at 26 years old, MERCEDES CLK owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1998 MERCEDES CLK Fuel Costs
The 3199cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1998 MERCEDES CLK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 77% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES CLK Reliability Trend
The MERCEDES CLK has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1998 MERCEDES CLK
At 26 years old, the MERCEDES CLK is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2000 model has the highest pass rate at 81%.
Alternatives to the 1998 MERCEDES CLK
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW Z3 (1999) 78% pass rate (+1%) from 8,191 tests
- PORSCHE BOXSTER (2000) 82% pass rate (+5%) from 3,688 tests
- PORSCHE 911 (1999) 87% pass rate (+10%) from 3,668 tests
- MERCEDES C (1999) 82% pass rate (+5%) from 2,683 tests