1998 Mercedes Benz SLK
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 2
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1998
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1998: 2 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 6 |
| 2000 | 3 |
| 2001 | 19 |
| 2002 | 25 |
| 2003 | 9 |
| 2004 | 0 |
| 2005 | 6 |
| 2006 | 2 |
| 2007 | 0 |
| 2008 | 0 |
| 2009 | 2 |
| 2012 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Tires
1 of 2 total reports mentions: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
On 02/02/2009 I had my vehicle, a 1998 Mercedes-Benz 230SLK serviced for a routine oil change. During that service the serviceman inspected my tires and brought to my attention that they were bald.
NHTSA ODI report, 2009-02-13
Electronic stability control (esc)
1 of 2 total reports mentions: electronic stability control (esc).
Show complaint excerpts
While driving on highway all the sudden and without warning, car stopped in middle of highway, all electrical system of car was shot out and could not operate the brake steering and car was towed to a factory traied Mercedes Benz facility,...
NHTSA ODI report, 2008-03-26
Also filed under Electrical system
Electrical system
1 of 2 total reports mentions: electrical system.
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2006-09-12Exterior lighting05V505000 On certain passenger vehicles, failure of one of the side brake lights can occur. The base of the socket can be subject to thermal deformation over time.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear lamp modules. The recall began on September 12, 2006, to approximately 8,200 owners. Phase ii mailing is schedule on or about November 3, 2006, and phase iii mailing…
Buy-smart checklist
1998 Mercedes Benz SLK — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Tires: 1 report on file for this year.
- Electronic stability control (esc): 1 report on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 05V505000 · Exterior lighting
FAQ
- Is the 1998 Mercedes Benz SLK reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1998 Mercedes Benz SLK?
- The most-reported component is tires, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1998 Mercedes Benz SLK have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.