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Mercedes-Benz SLK Reliability

8 messages,  Last post on Jan 26, 2009 at 12:37 PM

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What is this discussion about? Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Car Comparisons, Coupe, Convertible

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#1 of 8 SLK Reliability by jcpmiami May 27, 2007 (5:20 am)
I am thinking about getting my first convertible ever. The car at the top of my list was the SLK 350 until I started reading in various forums and editor's ratings that the SLK, along with most other Mercedes vehicles, rate at the bottom of the list on reliability and repairs.    I thought a hardtop convertible was a must but with Mercedes' apparent poor reliability, I might have to opt for a softtop convertible, such as the Audit TT or the BMW Z4. Other hardtops, such as the BMW 335 and Mazda MX-5 are either too square for my taste or lack power/appeal.    Any thoughts out there about the SLK's reliability? Would the TT or the Z4 be better alternatives?    Thanks. Replies to this message: p0926 (Feb 14, 2008 2:27 pm) kendonovan (Feb 22, 2008 5:55 am) bobportney (Feb 24, 2008 3:17 pm)
#2 of 8 Deep pockets requried by ajp1948 Jan 05, 2008 (10:30 am)
In 2003, I purchased a used 1999 Mercedes SLK 230 with 60K miles from a dealer who proclaimed the car was a cherry. I liked the fact that it was a 4 cylinder (better gas mileage), supercharged (more power) and had always liked a convertable, but did not like the noise and wind from a rag top. I found this car to be more like a lemon! I have had to replace a burnt out headlight ($8) every 3 months. The dealer claims I am getting cheap lights. I purchase a light from the M/B dealer ($15) which only lasted 2 months. Complained to the dealer only to be offered me one for $12. At 71K miles, I had to replace the engine/transmission mounts ($1200) because of a loud vibration noise. Had to return the car to the dealer the next day because a radiator hose was cut during the mount replacement. The dealer CLAIMED the hose was just worn. After the mechanic removed the hose and I showed the CUT to the dealer he said he would not charge me for the hose but I had to pay for the labor ($150). During this visit the dealer noted that I had not brought the car in for an oil/filter change. I told him that I had been changing the oil and filter per the manual. The dealer scolded me for doing this claiming that only M/B oil and filter were to be be used and MUST be done by a certified mechanic. I asked for the price and was told it was only $49.95 and had to be done every 3K miles. I decided that I would use another dealer from this point to have maintenance done.   At 75K miles, the voltage circuit board had to be replaced ($850). At 82K miles, had to replace the heater core ($1400). At 89K miles, the A/C compressor failed ($1500). At 103K miles the alternator had to be replaced ($1350). Now at 133K miles, I can smell antifreeze when I turn the heater on which tells me I will have to replace the heater core again. Hope to make it last till spring when I will trade it for a new reliable AMERICAN car! I have had many many other cars before ranging from Dodge, Ford, Chevy, to Honda and I have never had as much problem with any of the cars as I have had with the Mercedes. In fact, I looked at the total cost of maintenance of the past vehicles I have owned (9 in all) and they are less than the cost of this M/B! Believe the reviewers ratings! This is NOT a reliable car!
#3 of 8 Re: SLK Reliability [jcpmiami] by p0926 Feb 14, 2008 (2:27 pm)
Replying to: jcpmiami (May 27, 2007 5:20 am) While I don't question that Mercedes' poor reliability reputation in general and the SLK's in particular are well deserved, I am happy to report that after 6 months of ownership, I have had nary a problem with my 2005 SLK350. Now whether this is due to all the bugs getting worked out by the first owner, I can't say but regardless, it has thus far been a pleasure to drive.   -Frank Replies to this message: kendonovan (Feb 22, 2008 5:55 am)
#4 of 8 Re: SLK Reliability [p0926] by kendonovan Feb 22, 2008 (5:55 am)
Replying to: p0926 (Feb 14, 2008 2:27 pm) I have had my 2000 SLK320 since 2003 whereupon I purchased it with 3000 miles on the clock. I don't know if others have had problems and I am not aware of any however, I have only bought a new battery for mine other than general servicing parts.   Touch wood I haven't had any trouble with the car and it as served its purpose very very well.   I did upgrade the looks to reflect the newer shape with a Rieger body kit which I believe gives the car a extra look which friends love. I do intend to change the car in the next year or so and I will most definately be giving the 350 some thought along with the SLK55
#5 of 8 Re: SLK Reliability [jcpmiami] by bobportney Feb 24, 2008 (3:17 pm)
Replying to: jcpmiami (May 27, 2007 5:20 am) I have owned 2 SLKs over the past 5 years and have had no troubles or difficulties. I have 5 other vehicles, including a Toyota Sienna van, a Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, my wife's Lexus RX350 SUV, Toyota Corolla for my daughter and a Honda CRV SUV for my other daughter. I worried quite a bit before purchasing my first MB about reliability but had no concerns after buying the second one because I realized that people who own more expensive cars are less likely to spend time filling out forms unless they become upset or angry. In other words, happy MB owners probably will not take the time to fill out stupid forms claiming their vehicles are good but will complete such paperwork when they become motivated by anger that results from the perception of poor quality.                                      Robert B. Portney, MD
#6 of 8 SLK hardtop convertible roof problems by boods Jan 15, 2009 (10:03 am)
Purchased my "01" SLK 320 in 9/00 and only have 52,000 miles. Rear windows will not close although rooftop does. My mechanic (european trained specialist) checked wiring "nets" under front hood with no luck. Now has to begin disassembling rear portion of car checking wiring for any shortages/malfunctions. Expect labor bill to be extremely high. Has anyone experienced this problem and costs involved? Any suggestions? Thx, Beth
#7 of 8 Non- dealer service by wogasa Jan 26, 2009 (12:37 pm)
Does anyone know of a reliable and fair maintenance of my '05 350SLK located in the Tacoma or Bremerton, WA area. Are there any MBZ owners clubs here?

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