2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK230
Only 5 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 5 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 |
|---|---|
| 2002 | 5 |
| 2003 | 5 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 5 total reports mentions: service brakes.
Show complaint excerpts
WHEN DRIVING AT NORMAL SPEED THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL LOCKS UP. THIS HAS HAPPENED AT 40 MPH (IN TOWN) AND ALSO 65 MPH (ON HIGHWAY), ALMOST CAUSING ME TO HIT ANOTHER CAR AND RUN OFF THE ROAD. ITS HAPPENS TWICE FOR ONLY 3 SECONDS AT A TIME.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200807
1 of 5 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SLK230. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHTS WERE DEFECTIVE. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING TO WORK, A FELLOW MOTORIST FLAGGED HER DOWN AND ALERTED HER THAT THE BRAKE LIGHTS WERE NOT WORKING.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190916
1 of 5 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
1 of 5 total reports mentions: engine.
1 of 5 total reports mentions: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SLK230. THE CONTACT STATED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS THE VEHICLE FAILED TO IMMEDIATELY START WHEN TURNING THE IGNITION KEY. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200717
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK230 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK230 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK230?
The most-reported component is service brakes, accounting for 20% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK230 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.