2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK200

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK200 Kompressor is a sporty roadster offering a blend of style and performance. The SLK200 features a 1.8-liter supercharged inline-4 engine producing approximately 163 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2004 SLK included the SLK320 with a V6 engine, and the high-performance SLK32 AMG with a supercharged V6 engine. The SLK200 comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission. A 5-speed automatic transmission was optional. Owners often praise the car’s retractable hardtop, agile handling, and stylish design. Common complaints include electrical issues, and some mechanical problems associated with age.

Engine

1.8L Supercharged Inline-4 (M271)

• Failed Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, poor fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, stalling, erratic engine behavior, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Supercharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. These issues can include the supercharger clutch, bearings, or bypass valve.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific supercharger issue and replace or repair the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (Optional)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed gear changes, jerking during shifting, transmission slipping under load.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnostics are required, possibly involving valve body repair or replacement, or a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) to $3000+ (rebuild).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension bushings. Control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and strut mounts are common culprits.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the number of bushings replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ for a set of struts/shocks.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Central Locking System
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, remote key failing to work.
  • Solution: Diagnose the issue, which may involve the door lock actuators, central locking pump, or the key fob itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Instrument Cluster
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent gauge failures, flickering lights, complete instrument cluster failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Retractable Hardtop Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The retractable hardtop failing to open or close correctly, getting stuck mid-cycle, error messages on the dashboard. This can be caused by hydraulic pump failure, sensor issues, or damaged wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue. This may involve replacing the hydraulic pump, replacing sensors, or repairing damaged wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery is constantly being drained and the vehicle requires frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Perform a parasitic draw test to find the root of the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells, door edges, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Treat the rust with rust converter, filler, and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console/Radio Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Buttons on the center console not working, radio cutting out, or display issues.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the center console unit or radio.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air, weak airflow, unusual noises from the A/C compressor.
  • Solution: Diagnose the issue, which may involve a refrigerant recharge, compressor replacement, or repair of leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK200 can be a fun and stylish vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues associated with its age. Electrical problems, particularly with the retractable hardtop and central locking system, are common and can be costly to repair. Engine and transmission issues, while not necessarily widespread, can also arise and lead to significant expenses. Overall, potential buyers should have the vehicle thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase and be prepared for potential maintenance costs associated with an older luxury vehicle.