2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280: A Used Roadster Ownership Experience

Purchasing a used sports car can be an exciting venture, and the 2007 Mercedes Benz Slk280 is a model that often captures the attention of enthusiasts. Recently, one owner took the plunge and acquired a 2007 SLK280 with 73,000 miles on the odometer, for a total cost of $14,250 USD. Understanding the potential upkeep and maintenance involved with a vehicle of this age and mileage is crucial. This detailed account outlines the initial maintenance and repairs undertaken to bring a used 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280 up to optimal condition, offering valuable insights for anyone considering a similar purchase.

DIY Maintenance and Repairs

Upon acquiring the 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280, the owner proactively addressed several maintenance tasks personally, focusing on both essential replacements and preventative measures. These DIY efforts, conducted over a couple of months, significantly contributed to improving the vehicle’s overall condition and addressing immediate needs.

The initial DIY work included:

1. Headlamp Bulbs (LED Upgrade): Switching to new LED front headlamp bulbs for both the driver and passenger sides enhanced visibility and modernized the lighting. This upgrade cost approximately $50 from O’Reilly Auto Parts.
2. Driver Side Marker Bulb and Socket Repair: A new driver side marker bulb and socket were sourced from a Mercedes-Benz dealer for around $40. Crucially, this repair also involved addressing a crack in the original plastic side marker housing, which was allowing water ingress and causing corrosion.
3. Trunk Light Bulb Replacement: A simple but necessary fix, a new bulb for the trunk light was purchased from O’Reilly Auto Parts for $5, restoring functionality to this often-overlooked area.
4. Wheels and Snow Tires: Investing in a new set of wheels and snow tires from Tire Rack, costing $1200, ensured the 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280 was ready for winter driving conditions, prioritizing safety and handling.
5. Driver Side Stereo Speaker Replacement: To address audio issues, a new driver side stereo speaker was obtained from a Mercedes-Benz dealer for $200, improving the in-car entertainment experience.
6. Exterior Rear View Mirror Marker Lens: A new driver side marker lens for the exterior rear view mirror was replaced at a cost of $60 from a Mercedes-Benz dealer, rectifying cosmetic damage and ensuring complete lighting functionality.
7. Plastic Center Splash Guard: Replacing the plastic center splash guard underneath the vehicle, sourced from a Mercedes-Benz dealer for $90, protected the undercarriage from road debris and moisture.
8. Cabin and Engine Air Filters: Routine maintenance items, new cabin and engine air filters were installed, costing $20 and $25 respectively from O’Reilly Auto Parts, contributing to improved air quality within the vehicle and optimal engine performance.
9. Spark Plug Replacement: New spark plugs, purchased from a Mercedes-Benz dealer for $115, are essential for maintaining engine efficiency and performance in the 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280.
10. Trunk Strut Replacement: New trunk struts from a Mercedes-Benz dealer, costing $60, restored the proper operation of the trunk, ensuring it opens and closes smoothly and safely.
11. Battery Replacement: A new battery, sourced from a Mercedes-Benz dealer for $200, provided reliable starting power for the vehicle, addressing a common wear item in used cars.
12. Exhaust Cam Adjuster Magnet Replacement: Addressing Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0015, a new exhaust bank 1 cam adjuster magnet was installed on the passenger side, costing $30 from a Mercedes-Benz dealer, resolving a potential engine management issue.
13. Thermostat and Coolant Service: To resolve DTC P0128, a new thermostat was installed, accompanied by a coolant drain and refill service, performed with parts from a Mercedes-Benz dealer for $150, ensuring proper engine temperature regulation.
14. Secondary Air Injection Pump Replacement: Although not indicated by a DTC, a noisy secondary air injection pump was proactively replaced with a new unit from a Mercedes-Benz dealer for $150, preventing potential future issues and reducing noise.
15. Washer Fluid Pump Motor: A new washer fluid pump motor, costing $15 from O’Reilly Auto Parts, restored the functionality of the windshield washer system, essential for visibility and safety.
16. Oil Catch Can Installation: As a preventative measure, an oil catch can was installed to mitigate oil and PCV contaminants from entering the intake manifold. This aftermarket part, sourced from Amazon for $40, represents a proactive step towards maintaining engine cleanliness.
17. Radio Upgrade with Modern Features: The original radio was upgraded to a modern unit from Car Navi Player for $507. This upgrade included navigation, Bluetooth, CarPlay, USB connectivity, a 7” screen, and a backup camera, significantly enhancing the in-car technology and convenience.

Total cost for DIY work: $2957.00

Professional Services for Optimal Performance

While the owner undertook a significant amount of maintenance personally, certain tasks were entrusted to professional repair shops to ensure expertise and proper equipment were utilized. These professional services focused on critical systems and preventative maintenance for the 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280.

Professional services included:

1. Wheel Alignment: A wheel alignment, performed by a Mercedes-Benz dealer in Ann Arbor, MI, for $190, ensured optimal tire wear and handling.
2. Brake Fluid Flush: A brake fluid flush, also done at the Mercedes-Benz dealer in Ann Arbor, MI, for $190, is a crucial preventative maintenance service to maintain braking system performance and longevity.
3. Fuel Filter Replacement: Replacing the fuel filter, performed by Motorwerks in Commerce Twp., MI, at a cost of $500, is essential for maintaining fuel system cleanliness and engine performance.
4. Oil and Filter Change with Oil Analysis: An oil and filter change, along with an oil analysis, was performed by Motorwerks in Commerce Twp., MI, for $250. The oil analysis provides valuable insights into the engine’s internal condition and can help detect potential issues early.
5. OBD Scan with Full Report: An OBD scan with a full report, conducted by Motorwerks in Commerce Twp., MI, for $180, provided a comprehensive diagnostic overview of the vehicle’s systems, identifying any potential hidden issues.
6. Transmission Fluid and Filter Service: Draining and filling the transmission fluid and replacing the transmission filter, performed by Motorwerks in Commerce Twp., MI, for $520, is critical maintenance for automatic transmissions to ensure smooth shifting and longevity.

Total cost for professional shop work: $1830.00

Grand Total for Initial Maintenance and Repairs: $4787.00

Overall Investment and Long-Term Considerations

Combining the initial purchase price of $14,250 and the subsequent maintenance and repair costs of $4787, the total investment in this 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280 reached $19,187. This figure provides a realistic perspective on the potential costs associated with bringing a used luxury roadster up to a desired standard of maintenance and reliability.

It’s worth noting that this particular 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280 falls within the engine serial number range potentially affected by the balance shaft issue, a known concern for some M272 engines. However, at 75,000 miles, no symptoms have emerged, and an oil analysis did not indicate any cause for concern related to balance shaft failure. The CarFax report suggested diligent previous ownership, which may contribute to the vehicle’s current good condition.

While the balance shaft issue remains a potential future expense, estimated at $3500 for repair by Motorwerks if addressed early, the owner remains enthusiastic about the 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280 ownership experience. After two months of ownership, the vehicle is reported to be running and looking great, with minimal rust.

Conclusion: Embracing the 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280 Experience

Purchasing a used 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280, as this detailed example illustrates, can involve a commitment to initial maintenance and potential repairs. However, for those willing to invest the time and resources, the rewards of owning a stylish and enjoyable roadster can be significant. Utilizing online communities like SLK World can be invaluable resources for DIY maintenance information and shared owner experiences, contributing to a successful and satisfying ownership journey with a 2007 Mercedes Benz SLK280.