Mercedes-Benz SLK R171
Mercedes-Benz SLK R171 (2004–2011): condition, documents, inspection and conditions of sale of the car.
Indicative purchase price
Below market value
Final price agreed after inspection.
Value my car1Why buyers choose this model
If you are looking for a relatively young German roadster, which, in addition to prestige, will provide excellent dynamics and excellent driving qualities, then you should pay attention to the Mercedes-Benz SLK.
2What buyers check
Model history
Mercedes SLK (R171) of the second generation hit the salons of the brand in 2004. The design of the car was developed by Steve Mateen, and the inspiration for the project was the conceptual roadster Mercedes-Benz Vision SLA, shown in 2000 at the Detroit Auto Show.
Four years after the premiere, the car has undergone minor changes. Updated front bumper, rear panel with a traditional black pad, imitating a sports diffuser, also changed the shape of the side direction indicators. The dashboard was refreshed in the cabin. The list of additional equipment was adjusted: among other things, a new power steering with variable characteristics and a multimedia system with voice control appeared. In addition, the latest models of discs, new colors of upholstery and paintwork were offered. The car was discontinued in 2011 when its successor, the R172, was introduced.
Engines
R4 1.8 with compressor (163-184 hp) - SLK 200 Kompressor;
V8 5.4 (360-400 hp) SLK 55 AMG, SLK 55 AMG Black Series.
It is noteworthy that in the line of engines there are no diesel units. The explanation is simple. Roadster with a diesel under the hood, according to many ardent fans of such cars, is a foreign combination, which does not belong here. However, the next generation SLK still got diesel versions of the CDI. The automaker has had to adjust to the preferences of more demanding customers.
It would seem that the complete absence of diesel units completely eliminates possible problems with engines. But whatever! V-shaped gasoline engines received defective asterisks of the chain drive of the timing system on balance shafts. Minimum hassle delivers a 1.8-liter unit armed with a mechanical compressor. However, there are cases of failure of this compressor.
In all gasoline engines, there are sometimes problems with the fuel pump. In addition, there is often an increased consumption of oil and its leakage. During the inspection, it is necessary to inspect the engine from below, even if it is necessary to remove protection.
Dynamics? The weakest version of the SLK R171 guarantees a pretty decent acceleration to 100 km / h in just 7.9 seconds. With 6-cylinder engines, this time is reduced to 5.4-6.5 seconds (depending on the modification). The top variations of the AMG accelerate in 4.5-4.9 seconds.
Fuel consumption? 1.8-liter unit in the city will calmly fit into 10-11 l / 100 km. The AMG version, under the same conditions, will easily cross the psychological boundary of 20 liters per 100 km.
Technical features
The rear-wheel drive and front-engine arrangement are undoubtedly the best layout that can be applied in a roadster. Both front and rear are used independent multi-link suspension. The box was installed three: 6-speed mechanical, and 6- or 7-speed automatic.
Unlike the previous generation, the car did not take part in the crash tests of EuroNCAP. The predecessor received a good rating of 4 stars, so it is possible to assume that R171 is even safer.
Typical malfunctions
Before buying a used Mercedes SLK R171, first of all, you need to fully check the operation of the electric drive of the hard top, the integrity and density of the pairing elements. Any disturbing noises, such as squeaking or squeaking, can be indicative of a car's emergency past. It is also necessary to check the tightness of the top. If during the restoration repair the mechanism was assembled unprofessionally, then impermeability can not be considered.
Choosing the right instance is better to avoid 7-speed machines. They have problems with the control module. The box is troublesome to operate and prone to failures of the valve block and the hydraulic transformer.
During the inspection, it is necessary to monitor the state of the steering rack. Due to intensive operation, liquid leaks appear in some instances. The faster the repair is carried out, the cheaper it will be.
Sometimes electrical and electronics fail. The most common are minor faults. For example, a rain sensor, a parking lotter, heated seats, a central lock and a DVD player.
Given the sporty nature of the car, it is necessary to check the condition of the suspension. Control requires not only Silent blocks, but also shock absorbers, springs and ball supports of levers. Much depends on the driving style of the previous owner, and Russian roads, as you know, do not spare the German suspension.
3Pre-purchase checklist
Engines
- It would seem that the complete absence of diesel units completely eliminates possible problems with engines. But whatever!
- In all gasoline engines, there are sometimes problems with the fuel pump.
- During the inspection, it is necessary to inspect the engine from below, even if it is necessary to remove protection.
Typical malfunctions
- Before buying a used Mercedes SLK R171, first of all, you need to fully check the operation of the electric drive of the hard top, the integrity and density of the pairing elements.
- It is also necessary to check the tightness of the top.
- If during the restoration repair the mechanism was assembled unprofessionally, then impermeability can not be considered.
- They have problems with the control module.
- The box is troublesome to operate and prone to failures of the valve block and the hydraulic transformer.
- During the inspection, it is necessary to monitor the state of the steering rack.
- The faster the repair is carried out, the cheaper it will be.
- The most common are minor faults.
- Given the sporty nature of the car, it is necessary to check the condition of the suspension.
4Challenges of selling privately
The Mercedes SLK R171 is one of the most interesting small roadsters on the market. It is fast, well-assembled, great on the go and looks great. This car does not need special introduction.
Deficiencies? High prices for most spare parts, serious malfunctions of the transmission and V-engines (occur infrequently, but their elimination is problematic) and too tight interior. Unfortunately, finding a well-maintained copy will not be easy. Many cars have been in an accident.
- The history of the model: Mercedes SLK (R171) of the second generation hit the salons of the brand in 2004.
- It would seem that the complete absence of diesel units completely eliminates possible problems with the engines. But whatever!
- Technical features: Rear-wheel drive and front engine location are undoubtedly the best layout that can be applied in a roadster.
- Typical malfunctions: If during the repair mechanism was assembled unprofessionally, then impermeability can not be considered.
Shows, bargaining and re-registration take time: buyers look, promise to think and disappear. Fair price after inspection closes the auction on the spot. If money is needed urgently, the purchase takes away waiting and repeat displays.
5How selling to us works
Leave a request with the car data. We will discuss the preliminary assessment and inspection. After checking the status and documents, we agree on the final price and terms of the transaction.

