1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK 2.3L Petrol · P646 BAP

The vehicle maintains a stable roadworthiness status, though the record shows a shift toward minor age-related defects. The most recent test in March 2026 at 44,408 miles passed despite a non-excessive oil leak from the rear differential and a discoloured offside front indicator. This indicator issue is a recurring nuisance that has appeared in 2023, 2025, and 2026, suggesting a cosmetic-only degradation rather than a mechanical failure. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 29-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 1,500 miles per year. There is a notable gap in usage between 2017 and 2020, where the car covered only 685 miles over three years. Since then, usage has remained consistent at roughly 800 to 1,30 miles annually. This low mileage increases the risk of rubber components deteriorating due to age, as evidenced by the perishing tyres and cracking seals noted in 2016 and 2017. A buyer should specifically inspect the rear differential for active weeping, as the oil leak has been a persistent feature since 2017. While the front wheel bearings were flagged with play in 2015 and 2017, they were not mentioned in later tests, suggesting they were were addressed. Given the history of standing stationary, a thorough check of the fuel filler seal, rubber hoses, and the condition of the windscreen is essential to ensure age-related dry rot has not compromised the structural or watertight integrity of the vehicle.