Comments: 1-15, 16-19
Convertible hardtop would not retract (4 times).
Door panels/handles had to be replaced.
Driver's door window went off track (10 times).
Trunk latch button is too hard to push in.
Interior paint comes off almost at a touch.
Radio does not recognize the CD changer.
Radio did not recognize the telephone.
Driver's door window "exploded".
Scratch from the factory on the right rear A-pillar cannot be repaired.
I am now embarrassed by the fact I was stupid enough to buy a Mercedes-Benz. My friends are laughing while they drive their much less expensive cars without any problems, ever. My last car was an exceptional BMW 525i (7 years without any problems). My next car will either be another BMW or a Lexus. I have to have a car I can depend on. Mercedes-Benz certainly doesn't fill that requirement.
The car is actually a nice car when it is not in the shop. Drives nice, gets great gas mileage, and with the top down it's awesome.
The problem is, it has been in for repairs 20 times, for 39 complaints, for 49 service days in 23 months. It knows the way to the garage on its own.
We are filing for arbitration because Mercedes-Benz will not offer a suitable compromise to get us out of this car. We have probably been too nice to this point.
I purchased a 230 Kompressor in March 2002 and after 6 mths I am still very happy with the car. Prior to this I had a C36 AMG which was a beauty, but wore out tyres very quickly! The SLK is quick enough as I can beat most things away from the lights and the stowaway roof is great. The only problems I've had are 1) Boot handle difficult to squeeze at times,2) odd clicks from the driver's window,3) Alarm system is tempramental.
Otherwise a good car!
I ask that we refrain from throwing the baby out with the bath water. What I mean is this: because of a bad experience with one model from a manufacturer we should not demonize the entire fleet as I can assure you I have friends with BMW's that have been nightmare mobiles to say the least. I presently own a 1999 SLK 230 Kompressor and I love it! The only concern I have had are the interior door trim panels coming loose (just below the side airbags), replaced under warranty; and a low beam headlight bulb. I sympathize with your experience and wish you better luck with your car choice. Mercedes makes some of the best vehicles in the world, but they are not always perfect.
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.
I purchased a 99 SLK 230 used from dealer with starmark. Don't want to jinx myself, but no problem so far. They put new tires, breaks and pads, all new hoses and belts. The car has been driven 4k miles since I got it and just love it.
BUT I have the same problem with The interior. I have the red and black. DOES ANYONE KNOW HOW TO TOUCH UP THE RED ON THE DOOR PANEL? THANKS PMFIP@AOL.COM.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I purchased my 1998 slk on Friday the 13 of January 2006! it is silver with the black and red interior and has 87k. I love the look of the car and the retro interior. I do have a couple chips on the red plastic, but it does not bother me. It drives great with good mileage (24mpg) mostly city driving. Because it is cold in the midwest, I have not had the top down as yet, but cannot wait. I find the seats very comfortable and mine are heated which is a nice feature. This car also came with the intergrated phone, yet I am told that it is analog in nature and the verison company stated it cannot work due to the 911 issue for analog. I contacted MB and they stated they are working on some kind of bluetooth attachement. This should be ready in the spring. mine also came with the cd option, but I am having difficutly with this. I purchased the car from an Acura Dealer. I did speak to the prior owner and also used this site and other reviews prior to my purchase. Also, a friend's boyfriend had one and I asked her how he liked his yellow slk, she stated he traded it in, I was somewhat interested, so I said, traded it in for what? I asked. she responded, another slk! I will keep you posted. my other car is a 1998 c280, no problems with this car either.
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.
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.
I have the perfect answer for all the interior paint problens guys! hurray!
I Have a 1996 slk beauty, one of the first makes, and of course I had the interior repaired, but I have had many trys before it become new again.
You'r answer is : www.drvinyl.com
bealive 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 this guys are all over the world.
They charged me 300 euros por the repair and you are very welcome to ask for photos for my email that is antonio@homemcardoso.com
go make your babys brand new and continue to love your car.
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.
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.