1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 2.3L Petrol · S758 JNH
1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK (2.3L, petrol). First registered 22 Dec 1998. Recorded mileage 90,414 miles. MOT expired on 14 Jun 2024. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES-BENZ SLK
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 14 Jun 2024
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 90,414 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 2.3L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
S758 JNH Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 15/06/2023
- 90,414 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring lighting items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
S758 JNH MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Mercedes-Benz Slk (S758 JNH) between June 2022 and June 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 15 June 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (4 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
Recorded failure items include: “Offside Rear Stop lamp(s) not working (4.3.1 (a) (ii))”; “Offside Front Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect (4.1.2 (c))”; “Nearside Front Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect (4.1.2 (c))”.
S758 JNH Mileage History
- 16/06/202289,773 mi
- 13/06/202390,414 mi+641 mi
- 15/06/202390,414 mi
Average of roughly 643 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution; while this classic roadster has decent mileage, a history of recurring suspension wear and recent electrical issues requires a thorough inspection. It is a potential project for a buyer willing to address deferred mechanical maintenance.
When inspecting this SLK, the absolute priority must be the hardtop mechanism; ensure it operates smoothly without hesitation or unusual noises, as hydraulic leaks here are incredibly costly to repair. Given the history of 'DANGEROUS' failures related to tyres in 2021, check the current age and condition of all four tyres, as the previous owner may have neglected basic safety items.
Look closely for a comprehensive service history detailing oil changes. The MOT records show multiple mentions of deteriorated suspension bushes and anti-roll bar links over several years; if these haven't been replaced recently, you should negotiate off the cost of a suspension re-work. Additionally, ask why the SRS (airbag) warning lamp was triggered in 2023 to ensure the fault was properly diagnosed and is not just a recurring electrical ghost.
The 2298cc engine is not known for modern efficiency, so buyers should expect around 25-30 MPG depending on driving conditions. As an older luxury Mercedes, it falls into a mid-range tax band, and insurance groups can vary significantly based on your personal profile.
Maintenance costs for this era of Mercedes are generally higher than a standard hatchback, with parts for the complex roof and suspension components commanding a premium. Estimate an annual running cost, including fuel, insurance, and routine servicing, to be approximately £1,200-£1,600.
Inspect the underside thoroughly for rust, as the MOT history has noted a corroded exhaust system and deteriorating brake pipes dating back to 2016. Pay specific attention to the brake hoses, which have been flagged as 'excessively deteriorated' or 'chafed' multiple times.
Check the electrical system comprehensively. The 2023 failure noted incorrect headlamp aim and an SRS warning lamp; ensure all dashboard lights clear after the engine is started. Also, drive the car over an uneven surface to listen for knocks from the front lower arm bushes, which have been a recurring advisory item in the MOT records.
This 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK features a 2.3L petrol engine and has covered approximately 90,414 miles, which is slightly above average for its age. The MOT history shows a pattern of wear-and-tear failures, particularly regarding rubber bushes, brake hoses, and exhaust-related corrosion. While it has passed its most recent tests, the presence of past SRS warning lights and structural tyre failures suggests the car may have suffered from reactive rather than preventative maintenance.
The R170 SLK is generally considered mechanically robust, but the complex hydraulic roof and electrical sensors are known weak points as they age.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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