Merc SLK: what should I look out for on inspection?
Mercedes-Benz SLK 230K convertible: can you tell me any problems to look for on inspection?
Thanks, Paul
Paul Bristow (Glengarriff)Mar 2014 Filed under: reliability
Expert answer
Hi Paul,
OK, the good news: the SLK 230K (built from 1996 to 2004) is from an era when Mercedes engineers built the car the best they could, and then the accountants had to go away and figure out how much to sell it for. That changed later with disastrous consequences for Mercedes' reliability reputation, but the good news, as I say, is that the original SLK was built tough. There are few regularly reported issues, so the thing to check for here is maintenance. If the car has been obviously cared for properly, has a full set of service stamps, receipts and previous NCTs then you're probably on to a good one.
That regular servicing is vital to keep the supercharged engine in good shape (the supercharger itself needs a regular top up with high quality oil) and it's a good idea to very carefully check the operation of the folding steel roof. Any hesitation, vibration or grinding noises are bad signs. Check also for condensation or water in the lights front and rear, and check the interior for any obvious signs of excess wear and tear.
Hope that helps
Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser@neilmbriscoe