Most common 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems
Share of the 6 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Mercedes-Benz SLK complaints by model year
Best SLK years: 2000, 1999, 2005. Years to avoid: 2002, 2001. Compare all years →
1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK recalls (1)
Exterior lighting › Brake lights
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.
Remedy: 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…
What 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK owners say
Lights
This is in regards to recall number 05V505 for the driver side rear brake light. This recall occurred in 2006 and the light was fixed. However, it has failed again and has the exact same problem, the socked has gotten hot and melted/deformed the plastic socket. I don't know if the bulb was replaced only but to me it appears nothing has been done to repair this issue on this car.
Tl* - the contact received a recall letter campaign # 05V505000 on 01/09/07 for the exterior lights on his 1999 Mercedes SLK. The dealership, r & h Mercedes owens mill, maryland told the contact that they would not perform the recal repair because the brake light was presently working.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK a good car?
Based on 6 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1999 SLK rates better than average: 55% fewer complaints than a typical year of the SLK at the same age. It is one of the best SLK years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK?
The lights — 3 complaints, 50% of all complaints for this model year, most often about brake lights. Next are the body & structure (2) and windows, wipers & sunroof (2).
How many recalls does the 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK have?
There is 1 recall for the 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK, the most recent from November 1, 2005 (brake lights). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Mercedes-Benz SLK?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2000, 1999 and 2005. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2002 and 2001. See the full Mercedes-Benz SLK years comparison.
At what mileage do 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 70,000 miles; 0% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.