2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK recalls and problems

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK has 1 safety recall and 6 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
6
Crashes / fires
1 / 0
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK recalls

Recall 08V-303: Electrical System

Reported Jul 7, 2008 · 404 vehicles affected · MERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC.

Problem: Mercedes-benz is recalling my 2006-2008 m-class, r-class, my 2005-2009 slk-class, my 2005-2008 c-class, my 2003-2004 and 2006-2008 clk-class, my 2003-2008 e-class, my 2004 and 2008 cl-class, my 2008 cls-class, my 2004 and 2007-2008 s-class, my 2003 g-class, and my 2003-2004, 2006 and 2009 sl-class vehicles. A software calibration number (Scn) coding received on the affected vehicles during a recent workshop visit was incorrect. Depending on the model year and model affected, the results of an incorrect scn coding can affect a number of vehicle safety and emission functions including the following types of functions: (1) the fuel gauge readings may be incorrect; (2) a stuck fuel-level sensor may not be displayed in the instrument cluster; (3) the OBD system may cause the check engine light to illuminate incorrectly; and, (4) the speedometer may be out of tolerance.

Risk: In the event of a vehicle crash, the electrical fuel pump may not receive a crash signal that is required for the fuel pump to disconnect and prevent future fuel delivery as designed.

Fix: Dealers will recode the scn free of charge. The recall began on august 30, 2008. Owners may contact mercedes-benz at 1-800-367-6372.

2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Power Train4
Engine and Engine Cooling3
Service Brakes, Hydraulic1

Most reported parts

  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 2
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 1
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm) — 1
  • Power Train › Manual Transmission — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 6,000 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK complaints

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

Power Train · at 91,000 miles · reported Oct 5, 2011
Took my car in, it would not go into reverse, then the engine was winding out really hi on the tachometer, mercedes said it was the valve body module in transmission, ok- then they told me my engine balance shaft was not working and the labor was 5628.00 they have not yet quoted me a price on the parts for either issue. Said the engine will just seize up when driving, I looked this up on internet and there seems to be a class action suit going on with this balance shaft issue.is this a safety issue they overlooked possibly ? Miles as low as 62k having same issue. [xxx] information redacted…
Power Train · at 3,500 miles · reported Feb 18, 2007
[xxx] 2005 slk 350 I have a manual transmission it is hard to get into first gear from neutral where it slips into reverse. The dealer has not so far been able to duplicate this. I found online that there is a TSB on this. They say unless the can duplicate this they will not proceed with it. I informed the dealer earlier that I had a written note from my friend who was with me once when it happened, they did not care. Tsb tells the dealer if you receive customer reports in the above model vehicles of first or reverse gears being difficult to engage from neutral and/or the shifter catching…
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · reported Dec 14, 2006
Car continues to roll at stop light after I apply pressure to brake to stop car. Must stop car further away from car in front to prevent possible contact.
Power Train · at 10,000 miles · reported May 30, 2006
Dt*: the contact stated while traveling 50mph and accelerating the vehicle goes to neutral and looses power. The vehicle must be put into park, turned off and restarted to regain power. There is not a delay from the time it is turned off until start up. The vehicle has stalled a total of three times. The dealership has been alerted and replaced the transmission control module etc on may 16th, the problem returned on may 27, 2006. The dealership has been unable to successfully correct the problem. The contact has been in touch with a service advisor who explained they need to speak with someone…
Engine and Engine Cooling · at 6,000 miles · reported Dec 28, 2005
Dt: the contact stated the car was burning an excessive amount of oil. The vehicle used two quarts of oil at only 5, 500 miles. The dealership test drove the vehicle and found that the valves were not seated. Also, at times while pressing the accelerator pedal the vehicle will not move it will only rev the engine. The dealership was contacted, they told her the next time this occurred to shut the engine by putting the car in park and turning the key to the off position. There have been no repairs made to the transmission because the dealership did not have enough information to make any…

Other Mercedes-Benz SLK years

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

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK: 08V-303 (electrical system). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK?

Owners report power train problems most often (4 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (3). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 6,000 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.