Used Mercedes-Benz SLK200

What to know before buying: Mercedes-Benz SLK200

From 2 forum threads and 2 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The R172 is a two-door roadster with a folding hardtop, noted for its sporty performance and body style.[4]one sourceR172 (third generation)
• The R172 was available with a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission.[4]one sourceR172 (third generation)
• The M271 can have a respectable service life, but the source stresses regular oil changes, timely diagnostics and preventive replacement of wear items.[2]one source

Typical faults

• On the R171 SLK 200 Kompressor with the M271, valve-cover and spark-plug-well seals may wear beyond 100,000 km, allowing engine oil to flood the plugs.[2]one source

  100 000+ km · M271 E18 ML (271.944)

• M271.9 engines have reported wear of the camshaft-adjuster sprockets and camshaft chain.[2]one source

  M271.9

• M271.9 inspection found leaking cooling-system pipes and cylinder-head cooling passages contaminated by degraded antifreeze.[2]one source

  M271.9

• R172 drivers have reported exhaust-manifold rattling; a vibration damper or replacement manifold may be required.[4]one sourceR172 (third generation)

  2011+

• The R172 may shut down unexpectedly; cited possible causes include crankshaft-position-sensor and electrical-circuit faults.[4]one sourceR172 (third generation)

  2011+

• R170 SLK 200 reports repeatedly describe a roof that will not open or close and faults in its hydraulic mechanism.[1][3]

Which engine and version to take

• Consider an M271 only after thorough diagnostics and with proof of regular servicing; the source credits it with good life when oil and wear items are replaced promptly.[2]one source

What to avoid

• Avoid an M271.9 with rough running or unclear service history: the source found wear affecting the chain, cam adjusters, seals, valves and piston rings.[2]one source

What to check at the inspection

• On an R171 with the M271, check the plug wells for oil and inspect the valve-cover and plug-well seals.[2]one source
• If an M271 idles unevenly, perform computer diagnostics and a compression test, adding borescope inspection if the cylinder-piston group is suspect.[2]one source
• During an R172 test drive, listen for exhaust-manifold rattling, which may be intermittent.[4]one sourceR172 (third generation)
• On an R172, fully open and close the roof several times while checking its alignment and the flaps on both sides.[4]one sourceR172 (third generation)
• On an R170, test the complete roof cycle and check hydraulic-fluid level; forums report opening and closing faults and identify low fluid as a possible cause.[1][3]
• On an R172, inspect seals around the front windows and elsewhere, as damaged or displaced seals can cause wind noise.[4]one sourceR172 (third generation)

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]forums.mbclub.bg — Проблеми и ремонти - Мерцедес-Бенц Клуб България · forum
2. [2]mb-pro.ru — Mercedes SLK неравномерная работа двигателя · press
3. [3]problemcar.nl — Mercedes-Benz SLK-klasse Forum · forum
4. [4]ca.benzshops.com — Common Repairs on the 3rd Generation Mercedes-Benz ... · press

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