Mercedes CLK W209 (2002-2009) – batteries


Choosing the right battery for a Mercedes-Benz CLK W209 (2002–2009) is essential to maintain optimal performance and avoid electrical issues, especially given the variety of petrol and diesel engines available in this model range. Since none of the engine variants in the W209 feature Start-Stop technology, traditional lead-acid batteries are fully sufficient. The battery specifications, however, vary significantly depending on the engine type and its power requirements.

For drivers of models like the 200 CGI, 200 Kompressor, or 240, which are equipped with smaller petrol engines, a battery with a capacity between 60 and 65 Ah and a cold cranking amperage (CCA) ranging from 540 to 640 A is recommended. Suitable battery types are standard 12V lead-acid, which are widely available and cost-effective. Some of the compatible models for these engines include the Bosch S40 05, Bosch S50 05, Exide EA640, and Varta D15. These examples represent high-quality batteries known for reliability and performance, making them solid choices for daily driving needs.

If your CLK has a larger petrol engine like the 280, 320, or 350, the electrical demand increases, especially during cold starts or when using multiple accessories at once. For these versions, batteries in the 74–78 Ah range with 680–780 A CCA are advised. Examples of matching batteries include the Exide EA770, Bosch S50 08, and Varta E44. These batteries provide more reserve capacity, which ensures consistent energy delivery during short trips or in colder climates. It’s always a good idea to check the battery dimensions and terminal layout to confirm compatibility.

For owners of high-performance models like the CLK 500, 55 AMG, and CLK DTM AMG, the need for a powerful battery is even more pronounced due to larger engine displacements and the presence of additional electronic systems. These engines perform best with batteries offering between 80 and 90 Ah and 640–800 A CCA. Sample compatible models include the Exide EA900, Bosch S50 11, and Varta F19. A well-performing battery in this range ensures rapid engine cranking and stable voltage for premium features like high-end audio systems, memory seats, and advanced climate control.

The pinnacle of power in the CLK lineup, the 63 AMG, demands even more robust battery performance. For this flagship model, batteries with 95–100 Ah and 800–900 A CCA are recommended to meet the power-hungry needs of the massive V8 engine and its electrical systems. Some compatible battery examples are the Bosch S50 13, Exide EA1000, and Varta H3. These batteries are not only larger in capacity but also built with higher durability, making them ideal for sport-oriented or demanding driving conditions.

For diesel variants such as the 220 CDI, 270 CDI, and 320 CDI, high cold cranking power is critical for reliable starts, especially in cold weather where diesel engines can be more difficult to ignite. These models require 80–90 Ah batteries with CCA values between 640 and 800 A. Examples of suitable models are the Lucas LP115, Exide EB800, and Varta F16. Diesel engines benefit significantly from batteries with high burst energy due to their higher compression ratios.

A helpful tip when replacing your battery in the CLK W209 is to always reset the onboard electronics if necessary, as some systems may require reinitialization after a power loss. Additionally, while AGM batteries are often used in newer vehicles with Start-Stop technology, they are not necessary for the CLK W209 unless additional electrical loads or future modifications justify the upgrade.

Interestingly, Mercedes-Benz positioned the battery in the engine bay for most CLK W209 models, making access and replacement relatively straightforward compared to modern vehicles where batteries are often hidden in the trunk or under the seats. This traditional layout makes DIY battery swaps more accessible for confident car owners.

To ensure the longevity of your new battery, consider driving your vehicle regularly and avoiding short trips that don’t allow the alternator enough time to recharge the battery fully. With the right battery properly installed, the Mercedes-Benz CLK W209 can continue to offer its signature blend of comfort and performance for years to come.

Mercedes-Benz CLK in version W209 was produced in the years 2002 – 2009. Below we present the specifications of batteries suitable for specific engines.

Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Mercedes-Benz CLK (2002-2009):

LayoutTerminal typesBase hold-down
0 – positive on the right side1B13

Mercedes-Benz CLK W209 – petrol engines:
  • 200 CGI
  • 200 Kompressor
  • 240

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4
S40 05
60 Ah
540 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 05
63 Ah
610 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB620
62 Ah
540 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA640
64 Ah
640 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 027
62 Ah
550 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Supreme
LS027
65 Ah
640 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
D24
60 Ah
540 A
242x175x190 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
D15
63 Ah
610 A
242x175x190 mmMore
The above three petrol engines of the Mercedes-Benz CLK W209, namely 200 CGI ,200 Kompressor and 240, will perform best with batteries of at least 59 Ah capacity. We recommend choosing higher-end battery models for cars with a large number of optional extras. The weakest of these is the battery Bosch S4 S40 05 which capacity is 60 Ah and Cold Cranking Amps is 540 A. The most powerful battery is Lucas Supreme LS027 of a capacity 65Ah and Cold Cranking Amps: 640 A. All of the above motors have a base hold-down B13.

Mercedes-Benz CLK W209 – petrol engines:
  • 280
  • 320
  • 350

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4
S40 08
74 Ah
680 A
278x175x190 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 08
77 Ah
780 A
278x175x190 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB740
74 Ah
680 A
278x175x190 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA770
77 Ah
760 A
278x175x190 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 096
76 Ah
680 A
278x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP096
75 Ah
680 A
278x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Supreme
LS096
78 Ah
780 A
278x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
E11
74 Ah
680 A
278x175x190 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
E44
77 Ah
780 A
278x175x190 mmMore
The above three petrol engines of the Mercedes-Benz CLK W209, namely 280 ,320 and 350, will perform best with batteries of at least 71 Ah capacity. We recommend choosing higher-end battery models for cars with a large number of optional extras. The weakest of these is the battery Bosch S4 S40 08 which capacity is 74 Ah and Cold Cranking Amps is 680 A. The most powerful battery is Lucas Supreme LS096 of a capacity 78Ah and Cold Cranking Amps: 780 A. All of the above motors have a base hold-down B13.

Mercedes-Benz CLK W209 – petrol engines:
  • 500
  • 55 AMG
  • CLK DTM AMG

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4
S40 11
80 Ah
740 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 11
85 Ah
800 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB800
80 Ah
640 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA900
90 Ah
720 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP115
80 Ah
670 A
317x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
F16
80 Ah
740 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
F19
85 Ah
800 A
315x175x190 mmMore
The above three petrol engines of the Mercedes-Benz CLK W209, namely 500 ,55 AMG and CLK DTM AMG, will perform best with batteries of at least 77 Ah capacity. We recommend choosing higher-end battery models for cars with a large number of optional extras. The weakest of these is the battery Exide Excell EB800 which capacity is 80 Ah and Cold Cranking Amps is 640 A. The most powerful battery is Exide Premium EA900 of a capacity 90Ah and Cold Cranking Amps: 720 A. All of the above motors have a base hold-down B13.

Mercedes-Benz CLK W209 – petrol engines:
  • 63 AMG

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4
S40 13
95 Ah
800 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 13
100 Ah
830 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB950
95 Ah
800 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA1000
100 Ah
900 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 019
95 Ah
850 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP019
95 Ah
800 A
354x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Supreme
LS019
100 Ah
850 A
354x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
G3
95 Ah
800 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
H3
100 Ah
830 A
353x175x190 mmMore
For the Mercedes-Benz CLK W209 with a 63 AMG gasoline engine, we choose batteries with dimensions of 352x175x190 mm, 353x175x190 mm or 354x175x190 mm, whose capacity exceeds 92 Ah. The weakest of these is the battery Bosch S4 S40 13 which capacity is 95 Ah and Cold Cranking Amps is 800 A. The most powerful battery is Exide Premium EA1000 of a capacity 100Ah and Cold Cranking Amps: 900 A. All batteries compatible with the 63 AMG engine have a B13 mount.

Mercedes-Benz CLK W209 – diesel engines:
  • 220 CDI
  • 270 CDI
  • 320 CDI

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4
S40 11
80 Ah
740 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 11
85 Ah
800 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB800
80 Ah
640 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA900
90 Ah
720 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP115
80 Ah
670 A
317x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
F16
80 Ah
740 A
315x175x190 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
F19
85 Ah
800 A
315x175x190 mmMore
The three above-mentioned diesel engines, namely 220 CDI, 270 CDI and 320 CDI, should be paired with batteries sized 315x175x190 mm or 317x175x190 mm with a capacity of at least 77 Ah. The most basic battery of this set is Exide Excell EB800 of a capacity 80Ah and 640A Cold Cranking Amps, the battery with the biggest capacity is Exide Premium EA900 of a capacity 90 Ah, having 720A Cold Cranking Amps. All of the above motors have a base hold-down B13.
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Mercedes-Benz CLK , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!

See also information about other cars of this manufacturer

Mercedes-Benz A-Class I (W168) (1997-2004) battery
Mercedes-Benz A-Class II (W169) (2004-2012) battery
Mercedes-Benz B-Class W245 (2005-2011) battery
Mercedes-Benz B-Class W246 (2011-) battery
Mercedes-Benz C-Class I (W202) (1993-2000) battery
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Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 (2007-2014) battery
Mercedes-Benz Citan W415 (2012-) battery
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Mercedes-Benz CLC-Class CL203 (2008-2010) battery
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Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220 (1998-2005) battery
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Mercedes-Benz SL R129 (1989-2001) battery
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Mercedes-Benz SLK R170 (1996-2004) battery
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