2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC180

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC180 is a sporty roadster known for its stylish design and retractable hardtop. The SLC180 features a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing around 156 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. Other engine options for the 2019 SLC range include the SLC200, SLC300, and the AMG SLC43, offering varying degrees of performance. Transmission options typically include a 9-speed automatic. Owners often praise the SLC180 for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and enjoyable open-top driving experience. However, some criticisms include the relatively small trunk space, and some consider the base engine to be slightly underpowered compared to the higher-spec models.

Engine

1.6L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder (M274)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket or the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain may stretch or fail prematurely, leading to engine misfires, rough running, and potentially more severe engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-Tronic 9-Speed Automatic (725.0)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or delayed shifting, particularly between lower gears. This may be more noticeable during cold starts or in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Solution: Software update of the Transmission Control Module (TCM) may resolve some issues. In other cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for software, $1000 - $4000+ for valve body or rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter malfunction can cause shuddering during acceleration or when shifting between gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain can occur, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This may be due to a parasitic draw from one of the vehicle’s electrical systems.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve updating software, replacing a faulty module, or repairing wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as the oxygen sensors or mass airflow sensor, can fail, leading to engine performance issues and error codes.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Retractable Hardtop Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the retractable hardtop mechanism, including slow operation, complete failure to open or close, or unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the specific issue, which may involve lubricating the mechanism, replacing hydraulic components, or reprogramming the control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience glitches such as freezing, lagging, or failure to connect to Bluetooth devices.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, replacing the infotainment system is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1500+ depending on software and parts.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz SLC180, while generally a reliable vehicle, can experience certain issues. Engine oil leaks and timing chain concerns are some of the more significant potential problems, particularly for the 1.6L engine. Transmission issues such as rough shifting with the 9G-Tronic can occur. Electrical problems like battery drain and sensor malfunctions are also possible. The retractable hardtop can also present some problems. The cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the nature and severity of the issue, ranging from relatively inexpensive sensor replacements to more costly engine or transmission work. Prospective buyers should have a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential issues.