MERCEDES SLK (2005)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 10,305 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
78%
Total Tests (2024)
10,305
Avg Mileage
82,791 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2005 MERCEDES SLK reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 19 years old, 78% of MERCEDES SLKs from 2005 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 10,305 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 82,791 miles.
How does the 2005 MERCEDES SLK compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2005 MERCEDES SLK has 82,791 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 140,600 miles for a 19-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 2005 sits between the two at 78%.
How much does a 2005 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 2005 MERCEDES SLK
The 2005 MERCEDES SLK is a family car with a 1998cc diesel engine. 10,305 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2005, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 82,791 miles at 19 years old, MERCEDES SLK owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2005 MERCEDES SLK Fuel Costs
The 1998cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2005 MERCEDES SLK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 78% 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 2005 MERCEDES SLK
At 19 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%. With 10,305 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2005 MERCEDES SLK
The MERCEDES SLK is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2007) 73% pass rate (-5%) from 80,988 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2007) 71% pass rate (-7%) from 71,923 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (-6%) from 45,025 tests
- AUDI A3 (2007) 75% pass rate (-3%) from 30,361 tests