Most common 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems
Share of the 9 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 →
2003 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…
NHTSA defect investigations
Federal safety investigators have looked into a possible defect involving the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK:
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…
What 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK owners say
Electrical system
Tl* the contact owns a 2003 Mercedes slk320 ( n/a). While driving at various speeds , the vehicle loses power without any warning and after the vehicle loses power all the lights illuminates on the instrument panel. The vehicle was towed to his residence.this has occurred 10 additional times. The dealer was contacted and they concluded that it was the k40 circuit fuse that failed. The fuse was replaced at the owners expense. The failure mileage was 74000 and current mileage was 76000.
Mercedes with 23,000 ignition switch will not turn. I reported the issue of intermittent problem to dealer and attempted to have it resolved while under extended warranty period. The dealer said it had not failed. Well, the warranty is gone and the failing part failed. It is expensive and appears to be a known issue based on my discussion with other owners and complaints here.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK a good car?
Based on 9 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2003 SLK rates average: 1.4× as many complaints as a typical year of the SLK at the same age. 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK?
The electrical system — 3 complaints, 33% of all complaints for this model year, most often about ignition › switch. Next are the lights (2) and windows, wipers & sunroof (2).
How many recalls does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK have?
There is 1 recall for the 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 74,000 miles; 14% 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.