Recalls: Mercedes R171 SLK 55 AMG
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Mercedes R171 SLK 55 AMG
Mercedes-Benz R171 SLK 55 AMG: Takata airbag recall
In May 2018, a recall was issued for Mercedes-Benz R171 SLK 55 AMG vehicles that were available for sale from 1 August 2006. In these vehicles, the airbag inflator contained propellant wafers that could degrade over time due to high temperatures and humidity. In the event of a collision, the airbag could deploy too aggressively such that the metal inflator housing could explode/rupture and cause metal fragments to be propelled through the airbag cushion and towards vehicle occupants. These metal fragments could cause serious injury or fatality. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/16775.
Problems and faults: Mercedes R171 SLK 55 AMG
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Problems and faults: Mercedes R171 SLK 55 AMG
- Rumbling or squeaking noises from the air conditioner compressor may be due to a bad pulley or bearings; revised components were subsequently released.
- The steering wheel buttons may stop working due to electrostatic discharge damaging the steering column module.
- The air conditioning (blower) motor may stop working or only work intermittently due to an internal circuit breaker in the air conditioning (blower) motor regulator that requires replacement.
- The ‘check engine’ light may illuminate due to a wiring harness in the engine compartment rubbing on a bracket, short-circuiting and causing a fuse to blow.
- The heated front seats may stop working due to the centre cushion heater failing.
- Water may leak from the windscreen or where the rear window meets the boot due to seal failures; revised seals were subsequently released.
- For early models, the steering rack boot was inspected during servicing due to possible damage during assembly.
