There are no safety recalls for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320, but owners have filed 11 complaints with NHTSA.
2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Service Brakes | 4 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 3 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 2 | |
| Electrical System | 2 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 1 | |
| Engine | 1 | |
| Visibility | 1 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Exterior Lighting › Tail Lights — 1
- Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 68,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Electrical System · reported Aug 25, 2026
The cars ignition switch locks up and prevents the car from starting, it can also cause the car to stall when running creating a very dangerous situation. Mercedes is aware of this problem with the ignition switch.
Exterior Lighting · reported Dec 5, 2025
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
Exterior Lighting · at 106,000 miles · reported Jun 1, 2023
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 driverâs 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…
Engine · at 145,000 miles · reported Mar 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as it went into Limp mode. Several warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that he had replaced the spark plugs and the accelerator pedal; however, the failure persisted, and the engine was misfiring. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the PCM, the speed sensor, and the ignition coil were malfunctioning. The vehicle was not repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the defroster had failed. The dealer was not…
Service Brakes · at 68,000 miles · reported Oct 11, 2016
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…
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK320?
Owners report service brakes problems most often (4 reports), followed by exterior lighting (3). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 68,000 miles.
Are Mercedes-Benz recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.