Complaints of the SLK typically centre around limited trunk space, a sometimes-choppy ride, a vague and rubbery manual shifter and sub-par sound effects from the smaller, supercharged engine. Said engine in the SLK 230 isn’t commonly raved about by driving enthusiasts, though most SLK 320 owners enjoy plenty of power and performance from the V6.
Other common complaints deal with thin and easily-chipped paint, and lower-than-expected quality of numerous interior trim pieces.
As such, a used Mercedes SLK test drive should start with a good going over of the vehicle’s body and interior. Check for paint chips, rust, peeling or bubbling, and scrutinize the cabin for loose, damaged or missing trim pieces and panels. Check the seats for signs of excessive wear too, and barter for a better price if you find any of the above.
Next up, be sure to check all interior accessories for proper functionality. In general, German cars from this era tend to be fairly solid in the driveline department, with common problems typically consisting of the electrical, computer and wiring variety. As such, make triple sure that anything electrically-operated item inside the SLK you’re considering works as expected. This includes climate control, power seats, the stereo, windows, all lights, and the motorized roof.
Operate the latter several times in both directions, checking for any unusual clunking, grinding or popping sounds while the roof is in operation. It should function smoothly and take about 25 seconds to erect and retract. Any unusual noises, ‘binding’ or ‘struggling’ could indicate a problem.
As with any convertible, shoppers are also advised to check beneath the upholstery in the footwells and trunk for signs of moisture, mold or mildew. If the SLK’s roof is leaking water into the cabin, it could be a recipe for rust and foul odours down the line.
Note that discoloration or hardening of the leather on either seat could indicate that they’ve been soaked at some point. If in doubt, head to a car wash and drench the SLK thoroughly to check for leaks.
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| 2001 Mercedes-Benz Classe SLK (Photo: Mercedes-Benz) |
Other common complaints deal with thin and easily-chipped paint, and lower-than-expected quality of numerous interior trim pieces.
As such, a used Mercedes SLK test drive should start with a good going over of the vehicle’s body and interior. Check for paint chips, rust, peeling or bubbling, and scrutinize the cabin for loose, damaged or missing trim pieces and panels. Check the seats for signs of excessive wear too, and barter for a better price if you find any of the above.
Next up, be sure to check all interior accessories for proper functionality. In general, German cars from this era tend to be fairly solid in the driveline department, with common problems typically consisting of the electrical, computer and wiring variety. As such, make triple sure that anything electrically-operated item inside the SLK you’re considering works as expected. This includes climate control, power seats, the stereo, windows, all lights, and the motorized roof.
Operate the latter several times in both directions, checking for any unusual clunking, grinding or popping sounds while the roof is in operation. It should function smoothly and take about 25 seconds to erect and retract. Any unusual noises, ‘binding’ or ‘struggling’ could indicate a problem.
As with any convertible, shoppers are also advised to check beneath the upholstery in the footwells and trunk for signs of moisture, mold or mildew. If the SLK’s roof is leaking water into the cabin, it could be a recipe for rust and foul odours down the line.
Note that discoloration or hardening of the leather on either seat could indicate that they’ve been soaked at some point. If in doubt, head to a car wash and drench the SLK thoroughly to check for leaks.
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| 2002 Mercedes-Benz Classe SLK (Photo: Mercedes-Benz) |