1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 230 review from North America
"It's a beautiful car and great to own if you can afford the upkeep"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Several problems over the years, and more since my extended 5-year warranty expired in Nov. 2006.
Most recent problem that concerns me is that the lower arm control bushings are separating. The cost to repair is $600+. It seems that a 1999 car with 85,000 miles shouldn't have this problem.
Like another person on this list, I was rear-ended and the body shop didn't fix the convertible top properly. I recently had to get the top taken off and repositioned because the sensor light kept turning red and beeping whether the top was open or closed.
I'd like to hear from anyone who has had the control arm bushings problem. I'm wondering if it's a common defect.
General comments?
The car is very sporty, the trunk is large for the car's size (and even has a good amount of space when the top is down), and it handles well.
It's just so darn expensive to maintain!
Recommended reviews
| Very poor built quality, and, watch out for Mercedes Dealers |
|
| The SLK230 lacks in reliability and comfort |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | |
| Reliability marks | |
| Comfort marks | |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 32000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 85000 miles |
| Previous car | Acura Legend |
| Date of Entry | 29th June, 2007 |