Most common 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 problems
Share of the 11 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Mercedes-Benz SLK320 complaints by model year
What 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 owners say
Brakes
The bas/ESP light and sudden braking just occurred today(10.11.16) on our 2002 Mercedes Benz slk 320. This happened three times in about an hour of driving on city streets between 15 and 45 MPH. One occurrence was while driving straight, the other two happened while changing lanes in moving traffic. The experience today was that the car had a brief momentary hard braking. First on the left front and then the right front (2 separate times). Each was a separate incident and each time the bas/ESP light lit up afterward. After internet research, it appears that this is a common problem among the slk line and possibly extends to other models. In Mercedes Benz online communities, many others have stated experiencing this same problem. There are apparently numerous potential remedies. To my knowledge, the culprits(s) could be, but are not limited to, numerous sensors malfunctioning. …
Tl* the contact owns a 2002 Mercedes Benz SLK320. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle stalled and unknown warning lights illuminated. In addition, the brake automatically engaged causing the vehicle to restart. In addition, the rear and driver side mirrors automatically dimmed in lighting causing it harder to view the road when driving. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the brake switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 34,000. Updated 09/09/15 updated 10/31/2017
Lights
The contact owns a 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the message that the rear light had malfunctioned was displayed. Upon inspection, it was discovered that while depressing the brake pedal, the driver's side brake light failed to illuminate as needed. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the rear lamp module was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V505000 (Exterior Lighting). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced that failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 106,000.
Previous recall 05V505 has been completed but the issue has returned the issue has been intermittent for a fee months but the tail light has been non op for a few months, i have tried different sockets and bulbs to no avail. The issue has not caused any incidents but i have no brake light on the drivers side due to melting on the lamp itself aswell as the pins on the connector are warped
2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.2L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | RWD | 18 / 24 / 20 |
| 3.2L 6-cyl | 6-speed manual | RWD | 15 / 24 / 18 |
EPA ratings. Class: Sports car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 a good car?
There isn't enough complaint history for the SLK320 to compare model years reliably. So far owners have filed 11 complaints with NHTSA.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320?
The brakes — 5 complaints, 45% of all complaints for this model year. Next are the lights (3) and stability & traction control (2).
How many recalls does the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
At what mileage do 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 68,000 miles; 22% 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.