HOW TO GET ONE IN YOUR GARAGE

An expert’s view PETER BRISTOW, HAMPSHIRE SERVICE CENTRE

“As a specialist technician, I give the SLK R171 seven out of 10 for reliability, drivability and looks. The engines aren’t as tough as those in the old R170 SLK. Neither is the 171’s seven-speed auto ’box on more expensive versions as trouble-free as the standard five-speed. Incidentally, whatever Mercedes says, those auto ’boxes do like an oil and filter change every 35,000 miles. I can’t fault the 171’s galvanised body, superior suspension and sharper handling. On those measures, it’s a great car. ”

Buyer beware ■ ENGINE

On early 280 and 350 V6s, beware balancer shaft gear failure. Early signs are misfiring, and the ‘check engine’ light – followed by terminal timing chain failure. Early 200s can suffer premature timing chain and camshaft sprocket failure. Check the V6 cam cover sealing discs for leaks.

■ TRANSMISSION

With the car at a standstill, check for a smooth D-to-r engagement a few times. If the seven-speed auto ’box won’t move beyond fifth, suspect speed sensor issues. On five- and seven-speed autos, low oil will cause overheating and clutch burn.

■ SUSPENSION AND BRAKES

Thrust arm bushings and front and rear anti-roll bushes are weak spots. Broken front and rear springs are increasingly common.

■ EXHAUST

Inspect the condition of the Y-section. Cracking is common but there’s now an inexpensive repair kit.

■ BODY

It’s galvanised so generally rust-free but rear subframes on older cars are now corroding, leading to possible MOT failure. Regarding the roof, lack of use can cause the dust covers on the microswitches to hold the switch in position so it can’t work. Headlights turn yellow with age (MOT advisory) but can be polished. Check there’s a modified seal on the A-pillar and around the windscreen to stop water penetrating to the door control modules and upsetting the central locking and windows.

Also worth knowing

If the roof squeaks as it operates, check the seals. UV and age take their toll on the rubber, causing it to harden. Krytox, a synthetic grease, should return the seals to as-new condition.

How much to spend £2500-£3995

Cheapest 2004-reg models, including a 115k-mile 200 with 12 months’ MOT.

£4000-£5995

More 2004-2008 200s, plus 280s and 350s with under 100k miles.

£6000-£7495

Low-mileage 2005-2007 200s and high-spec 50k- to 80k-mile 20052008 280s and 350s.

£7500-£8995

Very low-mileage 2006-2009 200s, some 2009-reg 2LOOKS and lowmileage 2007 280s and 350s.

£9000-£10,995

More low-mileage 2009-2010 200s and 2008-2009 280s.

£11,000-£15,000

First 2009-reg 300s plus best late ’n’ low 200s and 350s; 2005-reg AMGS from £14,500.

One we found MERCEDES SLK 200 AUTO, 2008/58, 62K MILES, £7250

It’s only the 200 with the 1.8-litre engine but at least it’s the later, facelifted one with more power (179bhp rather than 159bhp) and lower emissions. The fivespeed auto is tough too. The car has full service history, Airscarf, parking sensors and black leather.