Mercedes-Benz SLK Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between model years for the SLK?

What should I do/look for when taking delivery of my SLK?

How do I wire a radar detector like a Valentine One?

What is a good remote type radar detector for the SLK?

How do I change the oil on an SLK? Can I use a Topsider or other oil suction device?

How to install the CD changer in an SLK?

What kind of aftermarket CD changers can I use on the SLK?

What do I look for to determine if C pillar is rubbing on trunk liner and what's the fix?

My SLK makes so much black brake dust. How can I stop it?

How do I change the brake pads?

What kind of aftermarket exhaust options are there for the SLK?

I want to change the wheels on my SLK. What size wheels can I get and what are the specifications?

What are my aftermarket wheel/tire options?

What are my windjammer (windscreen) options?

How to take care of the wind noise/water leak from the windows?

Is the break-in period really needed?

What are the best waxes?

Where can I order parts, accessories, body kits and performance items for my SLK?

How do I join MBCCA (Mercedes Benz Car Club of America) and get The Star magazine?

Why does the driver side mirror have a thick black trim and passenger side mirror does not?

How do I change the fog light bulbs?

How can my SLK be better in the snow and winter?

What are the SLK USA sales figures?

How to I change the brake pads? Go to How To section.



Q: What should I do/look for when taking delivery of my SLK?

A: - Have them fix the C-Pillar rubbing problem (if present) before taking delivery. See below.

- Check for wind noise around the little triangle windows in the back.

- If you don't need/want a front license plate, make sure they don't attach the holder. They have to drill holes to attach the holder.

- Look for paint chips or other damage on the exterior/interior of the car.

- Make sure they dial into Tele-Aid to confirm proper operation and make sure they have your contact phone numbers correct.

- Make sure the alignment is OK (no pulling in one direction).

- The usual pre-delivery stuff like making sure everything works (lights, radio, cruise control, A/C, etc.)

- Make sure you have the windscreen (wind deflector for behind the seats).

- If you ordered a CD changer, verify that they have mounted the changer with the CD magazine slot towards the back. If it is in the front you cannot insert/ remove the magazine with the top down.

- Check the tire pressure because they pump the tires up to very high psi for the transit.

- Check to see if you have the spare tire bolts.

- Click here for a word doc of SLK Pick Up tips.


Q: What is a good remote type radar detector for the SLK

A: The Passport SR1 or the SRX. Click here for details.


Q: What kind of aftermarket CD changers can I use on the SLK?

A: The Becker 2662 D2B is the only aftermarket I am aware of. Here’s the link: http://www.continentalimports.com/be_chang.html


Q: My SLK makes so much black brake dust. How can I stop it?

A: Replace brake pads with aftermarket pads. Get Porterfield pads. Do not use Kleen wheels to cover the brakes. You can buy Porterfield Pads at My Roadster Net.


Q: What kind of aftermarket exhaust options are there for the SLK?

A: AMG, Brabus, Carlsson and Eisenmann are a few that I can think of, there are more $489 - $1500 for the part alone.


Q: What are my aftermarket wheel/tire options?

A: MANY combinations, go to The Tirerack and play with their tire machine where you can put different wheel combos on a picture of a SLK. Also try Brabus, Sprewell Racing.


Q: How to take care of the wind noise/water leak from the windows?

A: Take to your dealer for window adjustment. More rarely the sealed need to be replaced.


Q: Is the break-in period really needed?

A: Yes, vary your engine speed frequently. Don’t redline the engine for the first 1000 miles, and many of us change the oil after the first 1000 miles.


Q: What are the best waxes/polishes?

A: The best wax is the one that gets used often. Many like Meguir’s, Griot's or Zymol. I personally use Griot's Best of Show. Also consider Finish First. Check of MyRoadster Net for detailed information on Finish First products.


Q: Where can I order parts, accessories, body kits and performance items for my SLK?

A: Order accessories from your dealer, or

My Roadster - Great SLK stuff

Autoclass Net - for aftermarket accessories

Performance Products

Clairparts

Mercedes Shop - for parts and forums

CEC Wheels

Renntech

Brumos Renntech

Lorinser

Brabus

Sprewell Racing


Q: Why does the driver side mirror have a thick black trim and passenger side mirror does not?

A: The driver side mirror is a self dimming mirror and the passenger side mirror is a standard non dimming mirror.