1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK230
Introduction:
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK230 is a compact luxury convertible that features a retractable hardtop. It is offered with one engine and transmission option: a 2.3-liter V6 engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The SLK230 produces 185 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque. It is praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and lively handling. However, it has received some criticism for its limited rear seat space and lack of cargo capacity.
Engine:
2.3-liter V6
- Leaking Timing Cover Gasket
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the front of the engine
- Solution: Replace the timing cover gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
- Recalls: None Found
- Leaking Timing Cover Gasket
Transmission:
Five-Speed Automatic
- Leaking Transmission Pan Gasket
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak from the bottom of the transmission
- Solution: Replace the transmission pan gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifts roughly between gears
- Solution: Flush and replace the transmission fluid
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Leaking Transmission Pan Gasket
Suspension:
- No Issues Found
Electrical:
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Battery warning light comes on, electrical components flickering
- Solution: Replace the alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead after sitting for a period of time
- Solution: Find and repair the source of the drain
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior:
- No Issues Found
Interior:
- Broken Window Regulator
- Description/Symptoms: Window doesn’t open or close properly
- Solution: Replace the window regulator motor or switch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Non-Working AC
- Description/Symptoms: AC doesn’t blow cold air
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the AC system
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
Overall, the 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK230 is a reliable and enjoyable vehicle. The most common issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to repair. However, some owners have experienced more serious problems, such as alternator failure and battery drain. These issues can be more costly to fix, but they are not overly common.