2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK recalls and problems

The 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has 2 safety recalls and 19 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Recalls
2
Complaints
19
Crashes / fires
0 / 0
Injuries / deaths
4 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK recalls

Recall 05V-505: Exterior Lighting

Reported Nov 1, 2005 · 69,278 vehicles affected · MERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC.

Problem: On certain passenger vehicles, failure of one of the side brake lights can occur. The base of the socket can be subject to thermal deformation over time.

Risk: This deformation can cause movement in the socket-to-bulb connection, which could lead to a loosening of the electrical contacts in the socket, and failure of the bulb to illuminate.

Fix: Dealers will replace the rear lamp modules. The recall began on september 12, 2006, to approximately 8,200 owners. Phase II mailing is schedule on or about november 3, 2006, and phase III mailing is schedule for january 2007 for the remaining owners. Owners of vehicles with the updated trim (Post-face lift) will get an interim notice during november 2006, asking them to schedule an appointment for rear tail lamp replacement later in 2007. However, if they experience an actual rear lamp failure before they receive that notice, they should come to their dealer immediately for a free repair. Owners may contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall 02V-152: Exterior Lighting

Reported Jun 13, 2002 · 27,863 vehicles affected · MERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC.

Problem: Certain passenger vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." the owner's manual does not contain the proper headlamp aiming instructions.

Risk: This does not meet the requirements of the standard.

Fix: Owners will be provided with headlamp aiming instructions, and directions for affixing these inserts to the operator's manual. Owner notification began july 15, 2002. Owners who do not receive the free instructions within a reasonable time should contact mercedes-benz at 1-201-573-0117.

2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Visibility6
Electrical System3
Exterior Lighting2
Vehicle Speed Control2
Engine and Engine Cooling2
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)2
Power Train1
Fuel System, Gasoline1
Steering1
Structure1
Fuel System, Other1
Service Brakes1

Most reported parts

  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Lever and Linkage › Floor Shift — 1
  • Fuel System, Gasoline › Fuel Injection System — 1
  • Steering › Linkages › Tie Rod Assembly — 1
  • Electrical System › 12v/24v/48v Battery — 1
  • Visibility › Rearview Mirrors/Devices › Interior — 1
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 65,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) · at 110,700 miles · reported Jun 1, 2013
While driving under 30 MPH, vehicle randomly applies front or rear brake causing a loud braking squeal and causing the car to buck or pitch to one side. It has occurred from a stopped position as I started to accelerate, but 90% of the time it occurs at speeds under 30-35 MPH while just driving in a simple or long curve. It has also happened in parking lots when applying the brakes by locking up one or more brakes so hard as to make very loud squealing sounds. This is very scary and completely unsafe.
Exterior Lighting · at 29,005 miles · reported Jul 9, 2012
Rear brake lamps failed over and over since vehicle purchased in 2001. Dealer replaced bulbs numerous times and last replaced l & r bulbs on 12/29/2006 at 29005 miles. In april 2007 a safety recall was issued for rear brake lamps failure. Rear lamps failed once again at 39697 miles and vehicle was brought in to beverly hills mb to have recall performed on may 30, 2008. Rear brake lamps have failed once again as of 6/1/ 2012 with 78000 miles on vehicle in spite of the recall. Inspections by an independent mercedes repair facility as well as simonson mercedes, santa monica reveal that the lamp…
Vehicle Speed Control · at 164,000 miles · reported Dec 5, 2011
The esp light comes on, the car pulls to right and the speed pedal does not work. It happens while accelerating and almost had an accident due to lack of power to cross a major intersection. The esp light comes on and automatically disables the speed/gas pedal.
Visibility · at 94,050 miles · reported Sep 23, 2010
The automatically dimming interior rear view mirror has leaked part of liquid crystal fluid, severely distorting the reflected image. In addition, since the mirror does not have ant manual adjustment for day/night selection, any bright lights from behind tend to blind or at least interfere with the proper vision. This defect should be considered a safety issue.the manufacturer's quote to correct this defect is in excess of $300 for parts and labor. The same defect has been reported widely in various user groups and forums. In the past the mirror's manufacturer, magna donnelly corporation of…
Fuel System, Other · at 83,000 miles · reported Jul 27, 2010
I have a 2001 slk320. There is a problem with the gas pedal assembly, specifically the throttle position sensor. The car does not accelerate for 5-6 seconds then surges. Lots of cars have this issue. Mb should issue a recall.

Other Mercedes-Benz SLK years

Compare all Mercedes-Benz SLK years · All Mercedes-Benz models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK: 05V-505 (exterior lighting), 02V-152 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK?

Owners report visibility problems most often (6 reports), followed by electrical system (3). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 65,000 miles.

Are Mercedes-Benz recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.