2002 Mercedes SLK 2.3L Petrol · SB51 ANT

Insurance for a 2002 Mercedes SLK 230 typically falls into group 30-35, so premiums for this performance-oriented roadster will be moderate to high depending on driver profile. Road tax for a 2295cc petrol of this age is fixed at the standard rate (currently £165 per year for petrol vehicles registered before 2017 that don't meet RDE2 standards). Fuel economy for the 2.3-litre Kompressor engine typically ranges from 25-32 mpg depending on driving style, with combined consumption around 28 mpg. Expect higher costs at specialists rather than general garages, particularly for any supercharger, hydraulic roof, or electrical repairs, with routine servicing likely to cost £250-£400 per visit.

Annual running costs, accounting for fuel, tax, insurance, routine maintenance, and provision for corrosion-related repairs, are estimated at £1,400-£1,800. The corrosion advisories across multiple tests suggest this vehicle could soon require more significant expenditure - brake pipe replacement, chassis treatment, or welding repairs - which could add several hundred pounds to annual costs if work becomes necessary.

The 2022 MOT recorded front brake disc wear and brake pipe corrosion on all four lines (both front pipes, including those running to the rear). Brake pipes on a 24-year-old vehicle are particularly vulnerable to corrosion where they route along the chassis and under the body. Inspect the full length of all brake pipes, the handbrake mechanism, and the ABS sensor wiring for similar deterioration. The October 2025 test noted 'slight age related corrosion at certain components and chassis areas' - this is a recurring theme and warrants close examination of jacking points, suspension mounting areas, and structural sections visible from underneath.

The EML staying on caused the October 2025 failure. Even though the test passed the following day, the underlying issue may not have been fully resolved - it could simply have been a temporary reset, an intermittent fault, or a code cleared without repair. Ask for diagnostic printouts or invoices from any work done. Common EML causes on the M111 Kompressor engine include MAF sensor failure, lambda sensor degradation, throttle body issues, or coil pack faults. Additionally, inspect the hydraulic roof mechanism thoroughly, as roof pump and cylinder failures are a known cost area for the R170 SLK, and check the roof seals for perishing given the vehicle's age.