Bilstein B8 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK320 Base Front 36mm Monotube Shock Absorber

German-Engineered Monotube Damping for the 1998-2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK

The Bilstein BIL24-025997 is the B8 Performance Plus monotube front shock absorber for the 1998-2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK320, CLK430, and CLK55 AMG. Bilstein's B8 series steps up from the OEM-equivalent B4 range to deliver a firmer, more responsive damping characteristic suited to enthusiast and performance driving while retaining street usability. The BIL24-025997 uses the same digressive piston valve technology as Bilstein's motorsport units, with a 36mm monotube body for improved heat dissipation and consistent performance over extended spirited driving. Finished in Bilstein's signature yellow powder coat and manufactured in Germany, the BIL24-025997 is a direct OE bolt-in replacement for the front position on all 1998-2003 CLK chassis vehicles including the V6, V8, and AMG variants covered by this application. UPC 651860634104.

Key Features

• BIL24-025997 is the Bilstein B8 Performance Plus front monotube shock for 1998-2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK320/CLK430/CLK55 AMG
• Digressive monotube piston technology provides sportier, more responsive damping than OE
• 36mm monotube body for superior heat dissipation and consistent performance
• Direct OE bolt-in replacement requiring no modifications for the CLK front position
• Stem upper / eye lower mount configuration matching the original CLK shock geometry
• Bilstein signature yellow powder coat finish on BIL24-025997
• Manufactured in Germany to Bilstein's motorsport-derived engineering standards
• Prop 65 warning applies to BIL24-025997

Fitment

Specifications

What's Included

• One (1) Bilstein B8 front monotube shock absorber

About Bilstein

Bilstein has been manufacturing performance shock absorbers in Germany since 1954. Their patented monotube design and digressive valve technology originated in motorsport and have been adapted across their full consumer product range. Bilstein shocks are OEM equipment on numerous European performance vehicles and a trusted upgrade for enthusiasts seeking improved handling without sacrificing ride quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

The BIL24-025997 is the Bilstein B8 Performance Plus front monotube shock absorber for the 1998-2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK320, CLK430, and CLK55 AMG. It uses Bilstein's digressive piston technology in a 36mm monotube body and is a direct bolt-in OE replacement for the front shock position on the CLK chassis. UPC: 651860634104.

The Bilstein B4 series is designed to replicate OEM damping characteristics with improved durability and is the closest replacement to the factory CLK shock. The B8 Performance Plus series, including the BIL24-025997, provides a sportier, firmer damping tune suitable for more dynamic driving while remaining compliant for daily street use.

Yes. The BIL24-025997 is designed as a direct OE bolt-in replacement for the front shock position on the 1998-2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. No modifications to the strut mount, spring perch, or body are required for installation.

Yes. The BIL24-025997 covers the 2001-2002 CLK55 AMG in addition to the CLK320 and CLK430 variants. The CLK W208 chassis shares the front shock mounting configuration across all engine variants in this application.

The BIL24-025997 is sold as a single shock absorber. For a complete front axle replacement, two units are required. Order one BIL24-025997 per side for the full front application.

Yes. The BIL24-025997 B8 shock is designed to function with the factory CLK spring rates. It can also be paired with lowering springs for a combined handling upgrade, but verify spring compatibility for your specific drop amount and spring brand before combining.

Bilstein backs the B8 Performance Plus series with a limited manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Contact Bilstein directly for current warranty terms specific to the BIL24-025997.

No. The BIL24-025997 B8 shock is a direct replacement unit that maintains factory ride height. If ride height adjustment is desired, a separate lowering spring or coilover conversion is required.

Installation Instructions

1. Safely lift and support the vehicle on jack stands. Disconnect the battery.
2. Remove the front wheel on the side being serviced.
3. Support the lower control arm with a floor jack to prevent spring from dropping.
4. Unbolt the upper stem mount from the strut tower.
5. Unbolt the lower eye mount from the lower control arm or knuckle.
6. Remove the factory shock absorber from the vehicle.
7. Install the BIL24-025997 Bilstein B8 shock in reverse order, threading the upper stem and tightening the lower eye bolt.
8. Torque all fasteners to Mercedes-Benz CLK specification.
9. Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle.
10. Repeat for the opposite side and perform a wheel alignment after completing both sides.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and phthalates, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.