Most common 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems
Share of the 19 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 →
2001 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 3 possible defects involving the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK:
Sudden engine shut down
Brake lamp failure
In its letter dated October 28, 2005, Mercedes-Benz USA stated that it would conduct a safety recall to remedy defective brake lamp assemblies in model year 1998 through 2004 Mercedes Benz slk vehicles.the base of the brake lamp socket can be subject to thermal deformation over time.this deformation can cause movement in the socket-to-bulb connection, which May lead to a loosening of the electrical contacts in the…
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…
What 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK owners say
Windows, wipers & sunroof
Inside rearview mirror fades, blotched, fogged. Description: the inside rear view mirror in my 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 320 (r170 model) is an electro chromic self-dimming mirror that has no manual backup. The mirror contained a fluid which leaked out causing the self-dimming mirror to fail to provide dimming against rear approaching headlights resulting in the driver to either be blinded or to have to turn the mirror away which greatly eliminates rear view capability in the interior. There are many documented cases of these mirrors failing in various makes and models as a result of usually from the internal fluid leaking. In a vehicle owner forum, others have posted that they contacted the OEM mirror makermagna donnelly , who refused to take ownership of the problem. …
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 holland, mi did provide free replacements under an extended warranty, but since early 2008 has discontinued to honor this practice without explanation. …
Electrical system
Mercedes Benz slk320 just dies out while driving. No warning lights or anything before the motor stops and the car loses power. Happens sporadically. Mercedes Benz cannot detect the direct problem even after diagnosis. Continues to blame it on something else, then fixes it, but it continues to occur.
Dt*: the contact stated the vehicle was parked in a parking lot for 45 minutes afterwards, while attempting to turn the ignition on the battery exploded. The dealership was alerted. The model is a slk320.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK a good car?
Based on 19 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2001 SLK rates use caution: 1.9× as many complaints as a typical year of the SLK at the same age. It is one of the SLK years we suggest avoiding. 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK?
The windows, wipers & sunroof — 6 complaints, 32% of all complaints for this model year, most often about rearview mirrors/devices › interior. Next are the electrical system (3) and fuel & propulsion system (2).
How many recalls does the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK have?
There are 2 recalls for the 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 65,000 miles; 50% 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.