I have a 2000 SLK 230, about 97k miles. It is a 5 speed manual, and when the clutch is depressed and released, it makes a low squeek or creaking noise. The car runs and shifts fine, just makes the noise. Sounds like it's in the linkage, but didn't know what to look for.

It also makes occasional noise in the steering wheel/column. Either direction it's turned, and it is also like a low groan or creaking noise. I have no idea what to look for in this area.

Any help or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

 

Check the power steering fluid, the clutch noise could be a throw out bearing but hard to tell without hearing it.

 

Will check the fluid. The local Benz dealer said the steering shock needed to be replaced. Would that lend anything to the steering noise?

The clutch noise is coming from the clutch linkage itself, from under the dash; the best I can tell. There is a small "strut" looking link from the pedal to the arm. I lubed it best I could, and it seemed to help. Just didn't know if that spring assembly goes bad, or if there was something else to check.

Thanks.

 

I replaced my steering shock last year because it was leaking, i didn't hear any noise though. It's a very simple fix and only takes ten min. to replace, you can get them on ebay for $20.