MERCEDES SLK (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 13,361 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
84%
Total Tests (2024)
13,361
Avg Mileage
64,940 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2012 MERCEDES SLK reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 84% of MERCEDES SLKs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 13,361 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 64,940 miles.
How does the 2012 MERCEDES SLK compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 MERCEDES SLK has 64,940 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-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 2012 sits between the two at 84%.
How much does a 2012 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 2012 MERCEDES SLK
The 2012 MERCEDES SLK is a large car with a 2500cc diesel engine. 13,361 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 64,940 miles at 12 years old, MERCEDES SLK owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2012 MERCEDES SLK Fuel Costs
The 2500cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 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 2012 MERCEDES SLK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 84% 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 2012 MERCEDES SLK
At 12 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 13,361 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2012 MERCEDES SLK
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2012) 82% pass rate (-2%) from 68,955 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2014) 77% pass rate (-7%) from 59,048 tests
- MERCEDES E (2014) 84% pass rate (same) from 44,780 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER EVOQUE (2014) 88% pass rate (+4%) from 40,320 tests