Most common 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems
Share of the 3 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 →
2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK recalls (2)
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…
Exterior lighting › Headlights
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.
Remedy: 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.
NHTSA defect investigations
Federal safety investigators have looked into 2 possible defects involving the 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK:
Sudden engine shut down
Transmission malfunction
The petitioner alleges that coffee from a cup, placed in the cup holder, spilled onto the gear shifter and shut down the vehicle?s entire electrical system. The concern raised by the petitioner was investigated (sq01-010) and was closed after odi concluded that the facts did not demonstrate a safety-related defect.odi has subsequently received nine more complaints alleging fluid contamination of the transmission…
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK a good car?
Based on 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2000 SLK rates better than average: 64% 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK?
The engine & cooling — 2 complaints, 67% of all complaints for this model year, most often about engine. Next are the lights (1) and speed control & acceleration (1).
How many recalls does the 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK have?
There are 2 recalls for the 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 81,000 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.