2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG
The 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG is a high-performance roadster featuring a hand-built 5.4L naturally aspirated V8 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the SLK range for that year included a 3.5L V6, and a 1.8L Supercharged I4. The SLK55 AMG came exclusively with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-Tronic). Owners often praise the car for its impressive acceleration, throaty exhaust note, and relatively compact size, making it fun to drive. Common dislikes include the somewhat dated interior and potential for costly repairs due to its performance-oriented nature.
Engine
5.4L M113 V8
- Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, reduced power, and the error code typically indicates a camshaft position sensor issue. Solenoid failure can disrupt timing.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible around the valve cover, burning oil smell, and potentially low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Cooler Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks visible around the oil cooler, low oil levels, and potentially overheating.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and associated seals/hoses.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-Tronic (722.9)
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, getting stuck in gear, and general erratic transmission behavior.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds, unusual noises coming from the transmission area, and potentially stalling.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Car sitting unevenly, longer time to raise or lower the suspension, error messages related to the air suspension system, and a noisy or non-functional compressor.
- Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
- Recalls: None Found
- ABC (Active Body Control) System Issues (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: ABC malfunction warnings, car leaning excessively in corners, ride height issues, and hydraulic fluid leaks.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the specific ABC system component, which could include accumulators (pulsation dampers), struts, pump, or valve block.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (depending on the component)
- Recalls: None Found
- Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps, uneven tire wear, and vague steering feel.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per corner)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, such as non-functioning lights, wipers, or other accessories, and communication errors with other control modules.
- Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the faulty SAM unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining overnight or within a few days, requiring frequent jump-starts, and difficulty starting the engine.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic drain, which could be caused by a faulty module, relay, or wiring issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
- Recalls: None Found
- Instrument Cluster Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Flickering or dim display, incorrect readings, and complete failure of the instrument cluster.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Retractable Hardtop Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Top failing to open or close completely, getting stuck mid-cycle, error messages related to the roof mechanism, and unusual noises during operation.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the specific issue, which could involve hydraulic components, sensors, or mechanical linkages.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on the component)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- COMAND System Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, screen going black, or other malfunctions of the infotainment system.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the COMAND unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Heater Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working, only heating partially, or overheating.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the heating element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per seat)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG, while a desirable performance roadster, can be prone to several issues. The most prevalent and potentially costly problems revolve around the engine (valve cover gasket leaks, camshaft solenoid failure) and the 7G-Tronic transmission (valve body issues). Suspension problems, particularly with the optional air suspension or ABC system, can also lead to significant repair bills. Electrical issues related to SAM modules can also be frustrating. Owners should be prepared for potential maintenance costs associated with these issues when considering purchasing or maintaining this vehicle. While the smaller issues are generally cheap, the larger repairs can be quite costly.