2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK280

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK280 is a stylish and sporty roadster, appreciated for its retractable hardtop, comfortable ride, and refined driving experience. Its main competitor is the BMW Z4. A common complaint with the vehicle is its smaller interior. The SLK280 featured a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 228 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a supercharged 1.8-liter inline-4 in the SLK200 Kompressor and a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 in the SLK350. The SLK280 came standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, with an optional 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.0L V6 (M272)

• Camshaft Adjuster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling, especially on cold starts. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft position.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft adjusters (phasers) and possibly the timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Runner Flap Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, and potential rattling noises. Diagnostic codes related to the intake manifold runner flaps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Filter Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and/or oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve Cover Gaskets: $200 - $500; Oil Filter Housing: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping, or failure to shift properly. Diagnostic trouble codes related to the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. Sometimes, flushing the transmission fluid can provide temporary relief, but a valve body issue usually requires replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Slipping or inability to transfer power efficiently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Loose or sloppy steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or groaning noises from the suspension, especially when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, including malfunctioning lights, wipers, power windows, or other electronic components. Diagnostic codes related to the SAM unit.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM unit and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Thorough diagnosis to identify the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, improperly shut-off accessory).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the source of the drain, but can range from $100 (for a simple fix) to $1,000+ (for a more complex issue).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Retractable Hardtop Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The retractable hardtop fails to open or close properly, gets stuck, or makes unusual noises.
  • Solution: Check hydraulic fluid level. Diagnosis of faulty sensors, hydraulic pump, or mechanical linkages.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Retractable Hardtop Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, particularly around the roof and windows during rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn or damaged seals. Adjustment of the hardtop mechanism to ensure proper sealing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location and extent of the leaks.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The SRS light illuminates on the dashboard, indicating a problem with the airbag system.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the SRS system to identify the faulty component (e.g., seat occupancy sensor, clock spring). Replacement or repair of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater Core Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced or no heat in the cabin. Sweet smell inside the car (antifreeze). Foggy windows.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heater core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK280, while a desirable roadster, can be prone to certain issues. Engine problems like camshaft adjuster and intake manifold runner flap failures can be costly. Transmission issues, particularly with the 7G-TRONIC automatic, can also be expensive to address. Electrical problems related to the SAM unit and retractable hardtop malfunctions can add to the ownership costs. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their purchasing decision and budget for maintenance.