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Known Faults Database

Mercedes-Benz SLK Common Problems & Known Faults (UK)

If you are considering buying a used Mercedes-Benz SLK, there are several major reliability issues worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 2 known faults for this model, 2 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Mercedes-Benz SLK 2004-2008 Models (2004-2008) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Soft metal on the balance shaft timing gear wears completely away, destroying engine timing

Rough guide
£2000-4000

Typical symptoms

  • Engine Management Light (EML) on
  • fault codes P0016 / P0017 (camshaft timing)
  • rough running or misfiring

Affected vehicles

Engines:
3.5 V6 Petrol (M272) / 5.5 V8 (M273)
Typical mileage:
60000-90000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →

Mercedes-Benz SLK W203 / W204 / W211 (2002-2013) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

Single-row timing chain stretches and jumps teeth, destroying the valves

Rough guide
£1500-2500

Typical symptoms

  • loud metallic rattle on startup for 3-5 seconds
  • engine management light
  • loss of compression and non-start

Affected vehicles

Engines:
1.8 Kompressor / CGI Petrol (M271)
Typical mileage:
60000-90000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: June 2026

Other Mercedes-Benz models

E-Class6 known faultsC-Class5 known faultsM-Class3 known faults