2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK350
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 is a sporty roadster known for its retractable hardtop, providing open-air driving with the option of a coupe-like experience. The SLK350 features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2007 SLK include a 3.0-liter V6, and a 5.4-liter V8 in the SLK55 AMG. All engines are paired with an automatic transmission. Owners often praise the SLK350 for its sleek design, agile handling, and comfortable ride. Common criticisms include the small trunk space and the potential for expensive repairs, particularly with the complex retractable roof mechanism and electronics.
Engine
3.5L V6
- Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, check engine light illuminated, particularly for codes related to camshaft position sensors. Often occurs at higher mileage.
- Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on location and shop rates.
- Recalls: None Found
- Balance Shaft Gear Wear (M272 Engine)
- Description/Symptoms: This is a known issue affecting the M272 engine (3.5L V6). Symptoms include a check engine light, rough engine running, and potential engine damage if left unaddressed. The issue stems from premature wear of the balance shaft gear.
- Solution: Engine removal and replacement of the balance shaft gear with an updated part. This is a labor-intensive job.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Runner Flap Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, loss of power, poor fuel economy, and rough idle. Fault codes often point to issues with the intake manifold runner control system.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-Tronic (722.9)
- Conductor Plate Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission stuck in limp mode, inability to shift gears, check engine light illuminated with transmission-related fault codes.
- Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate inside the transmission. Requires draining the transmission fluid and removing the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, transmission failing to shift properly.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the valve body. Sometimes, cleaning and resealing the valve body can resolve minor issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Knocking or creaking noises from the suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Loose or sloppy steering. Uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints. Often sold as part of a control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per corner, depending on whether the whole control arm needs replacing.
- Recalls: None Found
- Strut Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Excessive suspension movement.
- Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ per corner
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Retractable Hardtop Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the roof to open or close completely, error messages on the dashboard related to the roof mechanism, unusual noises during operation. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including hydraulic pump failure, sensor problems, or issues with the wiring harness.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the specific issue. This can range from replacing a faulty sensor to rebuilding the hydraulic pump or repairing damaged wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+, depending on the complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, intermittent electrical issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the EIS module. This requires programming and coding to the vehicle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, including malfunctioning lights, wipers, or other electronic components.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM unit. This requires programming to the vehicle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Retractable Hardtop Seal Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, especially during rain or car washes. This can lead to mold and mildew growth.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn or damaged seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the extent of the sealing work required.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Navigation Screen Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen may flicker, display distorted images, or fail completely.
- Solution: Replacement of the navigation screen.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Heater Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters may not work or may overheat.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 can be a rewarding car to own, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues and potential repair costs. Engine problems like balance shaft wear and camshaft adjuster solenoid failure, along with transmission issues (conductor plate), can be very expensive to fix. Electrical problems are also common and can be tricky to diagnose, especially those related to the retractable hardtop. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. A thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is recommended before purchasing a used 2007 SLK350.