2005 Mercedes Benz SLK
Only 6 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 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
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 6 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 6 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE CAR WAS BURNING AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF OIL. THE VEHICLE USED TWO QUARTS OF OIL AT ONLY 5, 500 MILES. THE DEALERSHIP TEST DROVE THE VEHICLE AND FOUND THAT THE VALVES WERE NOT SEATED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20051228
EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION 7 - 8 QUARTS IN 6800 MILES . *NM
NHTSA ODI report, 20050923
1 of 6 total reports mentions: service brakes, hydraulic.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
CAR CONTINUES TO ROLL AT STOP LIGHT AFTER I APPLY PRESSURE TO BRAKE TO STOP CAR. MUST STOP CAR FURTHER AWAY FROM CAR IN FRONT TO PREVENT POSSIBLE CONTACT. *NM
NHTSA ODI report, 20061214
1 of 6 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 6 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 6 total reports mentions: power train.
SAFETY TIMELINE
MERCEDES-BENZ IS RECALLING MY 2006-2008 M-CLASS, R-CLASS, MY 2005-2009 SLK-CLASS, MY 2005-2008 C-CLASS, MY 2003-2004 AND 2006-2008 CLK-CLASS, MY 2003-2008 E-CLASS, MY 2004 AND 2008 CL-CLASS, MY 2008 C
Remedy: DEALERS WILL RECODE THE SCN FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 30, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ AT 1-800-367-6372.
Campaign 08V303000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2005 Mercedes Benz SLK — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 08V303000 (electrical system) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2005 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 2005 Mercedes Benz SLK?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling:engine, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2005 Mercedes Benz SLK have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.