MERCEDES SLK (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 3,692 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
3,692
Avg Mileage
87,295 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2002 MERCEDES SLK reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 22 years old, 81% of MERCEDES SLKs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 3,692 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 87,295 miles.
How does the 2002 MERCEDES SLK compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 MERCEDES SLK has 87,295 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES SLK?
The most reliable year is the 2016 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 1996 model has the lowest at 76%. The 2002 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2002 MERCEDES SLK cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES SLK by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 89% | 2,572 | 42,977 mi |
| 2015 | 87% | 11,055 | 48,710 mi |
| 2014 | 87% | 11,284 | 55,581 mi |
| 2013 | 85% | 11,106 | 62,322 mi |
| 2012 | 84% | 13,361 | 64,940 mi |
| 2011 | 85% | 5,660 | 61,469 mi |
| 2010 | 80% | 4,472 | 66,541 mi |
| 2009 | 81% | 5,347 | 71,532 mi |
| 2008 | 80% | 6,876 | 75,187 mi |
| 2007 | 79% | 7,700 | 77,695 mi |
| 2006 | 79% | 7,884 | 80,213 mi |
| 2005 | 78% | 10,305 | 82,791 mi |
| 2004 | 78% | 6,598 | 84,132 mi |
| 2003 | 78% | 3,327 | 85,438 mi |
| 2002 | 81% | 3,692 | 87,295 mi |
| 2001 | 82% | 4,005 | 90,848 mi |
| 2000 | 79% | 3,545 | 90,918 mi |
| 1999 | 79% | 4,295 | 87,626 mi |
| 1998 | 79% | 3,523 | 89,671 mi |
| 1997 | 81% | 2,190 | 90,802 mi |
| 1996 | 76% | 126 | 98,709 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES SLK?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 MERCEDES SLK
The 2002 MERCEDES SLK is a large car with a 2295cc petrol engine. 3,692 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It ranks in the top 21% of all 2002 cars for reliability.
With an average of 87,295 miles at 22 years old, MERCEDES SLK owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2002 MERCEDES SLK Fuel Costs
The 2295cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2002 MERCEDES SLK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES SLK Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES SLKs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 MERCEDES SLK
At 22 years old, the MERCEDES SLK is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2016 model has the highest pass rate at 89%.
Alternatives to the 2002 MERCEDES SLK
The MERCEDES SLK is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol large cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- RENAULT CLIO (2004) 68% pass rate (-13%) from 15,179 tests
- MERCEDES C (2004) 72% pass rate (-9%) from 13,493 tests
- HONDA CR-V (2004) 70% pass rate (-11%) from 11,559 tests
- LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2004) 70% pass rate (-11%) from 9,679 tests