14th Dec 2003, 07:16

I am also the owner of a Benz SLK and a BMW 520I. I agree with the interior paint problem. I am having the same problem. Apart from that it is a great car but does not handle well. I still prefer my BMW for handling. The straight line 6 cylinders on the SLK is great. Most of all, nothing beats the Vario-Roof. It work wonders. Just like have a coupe and a carbrio the same time.

19th Jul 2004, 10:19

I too have a 1999 SLK with the red/black interior. The console paint is chipped like mad. Has anyone had any luck locating a source for the red touch-up paint? Mark1267@bellsouth.net.

17th Sep 2004, 15:05

I just a 98 SLK 230. I the console coloring seems to be chipping away. It is black and white. Does anyone know of a company that I can purchase a touch up kit to fix this problem? Thanks. TMW tmichellemw@yahoo.com.

17th Oct 2004, 08:58

To fix the faded interior paint, there are two choices:

1) Replace the part that fades eg driver's side door handle.

2) Have the faded part "redye" - vinyl redye, I think is called.

I am sure people will opt for (2), just call your MB dealer service dept and ask for local source that does that. It cost around $30 minimal for a small area.

I know of this because I am looking into buying a used SLK, and noticed that some SLKs that I have looked at have this problem. Now, I am just determined to get the Dark color interior so that there is no "faded paint" problem. I even talked to the guy that does the vinyl redye and he said this is just a bad design. He also stated that there is NO permanant solution for this problem. I live in San Diego and I am sure you guys will be able to get your local help from the dealer.

Yet another alternative, re-dye it yourself. Just search on the internet for vinyl redye or restoration. Though I am a female, I am not great in creating the exact same color (=p)... so good luck on that route.

14th Nov 2005, 08:56

I bought a 1999 SLK 230 with the AMG package in summer of 2004. It has 28,000 miles and it runs like a beauty. I have had no problems with chipped paint, roof malfunctions, door panels, etc. I have had it routinely tuned up, but haven't had to take it in for maintenance at all. The supercharger still punches like a pro boxer, and the suspension makes me feel like I'm gliding on the road when I turn. If you're having trouble, maybe your just not taking good care of this vehicle. I haven't got a bad thing to say about my Benz. Fast, sexy, comfortable, and quiet.

15th Feb 2006, 18:45

I just bought a 1999 SLK Kompressor Hardtop Convertible. It had one owner and it is in almost brand new condition. My family are Mercedes-Benz lovers and I was a previous Ford Mustang owner. I swore by my Mustang, but traded it in for the SLK. I love it. I agree that one bad apple doesn't spoil the whole bunch. Some people have great experiences with their cars, while others have a nightmare. So far I love the handling of the car, the way it can take off like a shot, and the general *cool* factor of the car, especially when I lower the hardtop. Needless to say, unless there is something inherently wrong with the car (no recalls), then it's just a matter of whether or not you had a good experience or bad. Just like when I've recommended restaurants to people. I had a great meal and service; they've had a bad one. Keep an open mind.

27th Jul 2006, 23:07

I purchased a 1999 SLK230 with 60,000 miles on it in May 2006. I really like the car. It is white with a charcoal interior. I have added a number of chrome options which really has dressed it up.

I have only owned 1 Benz prior to this, which was a 1987 190E.

I have found the SLK230 to be a much more enjoyable vehicle to drive than the Mustangs or the 944 Porsche that I traded in for the SLK230.

The only problem that the car had when I got it was the arm rests kept coming loose from the door panels. I had a Mercedes dealer fix it, but it did not last, so I went to an auto body store and they sold me epoxy stuff, which I used and clamped it in place, and it done the trick.

I would highly recommend this car to anyone.

8th Aug 2006, 16:35

I purchased a 1999 SLK230 with 60,000 miles on it in May 2006. I really like the car. It is white with a grey interior. Does anyone know where to get the 'touch up' paint for the interior?

I enjoy the car very much... no problems.

2nd Feb 2007, 08:40

I have the perfect answer for all the interior paint problems guys! Hurray!

I have a 1996 SLK beauty, one of the first made, and of course I had the interior repaired, but I have had many tries before it become new again.

Your answer is: www.drvinyl.com

Believe it guys. I'm sorry this forum cannot show pictures to show you how new my interior turned out. Just like factory, and I'm in Portugal, but these guys are all over the world.

They charged me 300 euros for the repair, and you are very welcome to ask for photos via my email, which is antonio@homemcardoso.com

Go make your babies brand new, and continue to love your car.

14th Mar 2007, 21:54

I have a 99 SLK with the red and black interior. The red was worn in several places and the black showed through ("chipped"). I bought 3 tubes of Liquitex BASICS Acrylic (artist's) paint, and mixed approximately in the ratio of 8 parts Cadmium Red Medium Hue to two parts Mars Black to one part Titanium White, and painted carefully with a good, small artist's brush, feathering the edges. It looks absolutely new and original now, but we don't know yet how long it will wear.

4th Jul 2007, 14:18

I have a 99 SLK, love my car, but every once in a while the top does not want to go up, after 3 or 4 tries I will let it rest, then it will go up as it should, any suggestions, thanks.

28th Jul 2007, 03:59

I've bought a dark blue slk with white and black interior it's a very nice car amusing to drive and very special especially when you get the roof off... The interior have some paint off, but it doesn't bother me anyways I've got the car for 2 month, but it's a great car...

9th Oct 2007, 00:42

I just bought a silver exterior SLK 230 1999, and it is one sexy beast. It was a first owner car, and she traded it in for a SLK 230, so the car is in amazing condition. The interior though did have a few chips. Took it to the dealer; 75 bucks, and it was good as new. I got some 19 black rims on it too, so it makes many heads turn, and I would also suggest a Xenon headlight; it makes it look beautiful; ran me about 400 dollars after installation...

Feel free to email me with any questions.