Used Car Buying Lessons from a Mercedes SLK 55 AMG Sale
The Mercedes SLK 55 AMG is a rare yet sensitive car. When buying a used one, it's best to ensure that it will provide service for the longest time without causing problems. This is achieved by carrying out a thorough check on some of its most crucial parts.
A Little Bit of History
The SLK 55 AMG debuted in 2004. It ran on a naturally aspirated 5.4-liter V8 engine that churned an incredible 355 horsepower. All the power was channeled to the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission. Standard features included 18-inch alloy wheels, quad exhausts, lowered suspension, and an AMG body kit. Optional features included Airscarf neck heating and Harman Kardon stereo. Buyers could add the $5,800 AMG Performance pack that included firmer suspension, a speed limit raise from 155 mph to 174 mph, split-rim allows, and composite brakes.
Photos Courtesy of Autocar.
Black Edition
In 2006, AMG introduced the Black Edition SLK that came with 394 horsepower. It cut about 100 pounds off the original model by including a carbon-fiber roof. Other improvements included wider wheel arches, dual-mode transmission, bucket seats, rear spoiler, adjustable dampers, and a front strut brace. Mercedes produced only 100 of these, making the SLK a rare item to find.
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2008 Face lift
A facelift was done for the 2008 model year. Mercedes added a few visual cues such as darkened headlights, side air vents, and a revamped front bumper. The model also gained a gearshift that was quicker and responsive. It was accompanied by a variable steering wheel.
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Current Prices
Autocar found a number of models on sale whose prices varied slightly depending on the model year. A 2005 SLK 55 AMG with only 90.000 miles on it was being sold for $18,170. A 2007 Black Edition model with 26,000 miles on it was going for $36,316. One from 2005 with 55,000 miles on the clock was advertised for $16,872 while that from the 2008 model year with 70,000 miles went for $20,129.
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A Heavy Car
The SLK 55 AMG is a heavy car. As such, the front suspension and brakes are known to take a pounding and wear out fast. The R171-series SLKs are also prone to engine mount failures due to their large motors. More blame has also been placed on the seven-speed transmission by a number of users. When buying a used model, it's important to take note of a few things, especially on a powerful and rare car like this one.
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Engine and Transmission
Check for works beyond regular engine oil changes. The SLK carries 16 spark plugs. They shouldn't be due for replacement any time soon. Check for any oil leaks and examine the breather hoses to ensure that they are not coked up. The gearbox requires to be changed after every 40,000 miles. Cycle through each gear for noise-free and smooth engagement. Ensure the fluid level is adequate to prevent overheating and burning of the clutch.
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Brakes and Suspension
Disc and pad replacements aren't cheap on the SLK. This is, especially, on models built before 2006. Confirm that the suspension arms are not worn out due to the weight of the engine. If damaged, the shock absorbers and bushes could upset the overall handling.
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Body
If the car shows heavy signs of corrosion, it could be an indication of MOT failure. Check for rusted metal on the underside of the car. The roof should be working smoothly. A prolonged lack of use leads to clogging of the micro-switches due to dust. Confirm that there's no water under the spare wheel or behind the seats. It enters through the compressed boot seal.
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Interior
A common problem that a lot of users have experienced is the rupturing of the heating elements found in the heated seats. This can be due to owners kneeling on the bases. The elements are costly to replace. Check that they function properly without issues. Confirm that all interior warning lights light up on ignition before going out. Finally, check that the Airscarf system functions as expected.
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Price Guide
On selected high-mileage SLKs, expect to spend between $10,000 and $13,000. Some of them could be repaired write-offs. A 2005 model with about 60,000 miles on it could cost you anywhere between $14,000 and $18,000. The model should have an excellent service history. However, it may have been owned by multiple people. An excellent example of a 2005 model with 60,000 miles on it and a full-service history will cost you about $19,000. That with approval from Mercedes could cost between $22,000 and $25,000.
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