2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK 1.8L Petrol · SH61 VGV
2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (1.8L, petrol). First registered 01 Sept 2011. Recorded mileage 75,107 miles. MOT valid until 29 May 2027. Taxed until 01 Jun 2027.
- Make & Model
- MERCEDES-BENZ SLK
- Year / Origin
- 2011 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 29 May 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Jun 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 75,107 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.8L
- 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.
SH61 VGV Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 18/05/2026
- 75,107 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 9 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (10 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
SH61 VGV MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2011 Mercedes-Benz Slk (SH61 VGV) between May 2022 and May 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 21 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (10 issues), Brakes (3 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 21 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
SH61 VGV Mileage History
- 23/05/202263,793 mi
- 25/05/202366,669 mi+2,876 mi
- 29/05/202469,862 mi+3,193 mi
- 19/05/202572,770 mi+2,908 mi
- 18/05/202675,107 mi+2,337 mi
Average of roughly 2,838 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171)
Our database tracks 6 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
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
A strong candidate for buyers seeking a well-documented example of this model. The recent MOT history shows a consistent pattern of passes without recorded defects over the last four years.
When inspecting this 1.8L petrol SLK, your primary focus should be on the mechanical components that frequently cause issues across the wider model range. While this specific vehicle has no recorded MOT failures, the aggregate data for this model suggests you should pay close attention to the suspension arms and braking system, specifically brake pads and service brake performance.
We recommend requesting a detailed service history to complement the clean MOT record. Because the mileage is higher than the model average, check for any signs of wear in the convertible roof mechanism and ensure the engine runs smoothly at various speeds. Negotiate based on the service intervals rather than the MOT results alone, as the MOT only captures a snapshot of roadworthiness at the time of testing.
Running this 1796cc petrol engine will involve moderate fuel costs typical for a compact luxury roadster. Tax and insurance groups will vary depending on the specific trim level and your personal profile, but you should budget for premium parts common to the Mercedes-Benz brand.
Maintenance costs can be influenced by the age of the vehicle; even with a clean MOT history, components like tyres and brake pads will require periodic replacement. Expect an annual running cost that accounts for fuel, standard servicing, and insurance.
Based on the aggregate MOT data for the Mercedes-Benz SLK, you should perform a thorough inspection of the suspension, specifically looking for play or noise in the suspension arms. Additionally, check the condition of the brake pads and the overall effectiveness of the service brakes to mitigate risks identified in other similar vehicles.
On this specific blue model, also inspect the exterior finish and the operation of the hardtop roof. While the MOT history for SH61VGV shows no defects, a physical inspection of the braking system and suspension is vital to ensure they remain within manufacturer specifications.
This 2011 Blue Mercedes-Benz SLK (SH61VGV) has covered 72,770 miles since its first registration in September 2011. The MOT history is notably clean, with no defects recorded in the tests conducted between 2022 and 2025. Given the model's aggregate data, this vehicle's mileage is significantly higher than the average annual mileage recorded for similar models in our database.
Aggregate data for this model shows an 81.1% MOT pass rate, with common failure points including suspension arms and braking components.
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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MERCEDES-BENZ SLK Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2011 model year cars.
- Vario-Roof Hydraulic LeaksModerate
The complex folding hardtop uses multiple hydraulic cylinders that can leak as the seals age.
- Rear Subframe Corrosion and PerforationSerious
The pressed-steel multi-link rear subframe on the R171 SLK is highly prone to severe internal corrosion, aggravated by decades of wet UK winter roads and road salt. Moisture and grime accumulate inside the hollow box sections, rusting the subframe from the inside out until structural perforation occurs around the suspension control arm mounting points. In severe cases, an arm mount shears off entirely, causing sudden dangerous rear-wheel steering and an immediate MOT failure. Mercedes-Benz UK has historically assessed replacements under goodwill on a case-by-case basis.
- 7G-Tronic Automatic Transmission Conductor Plate FailureModerate
The 722.9 7G-Tronic 7-speed automatic gearbox fitted to six-cylinder R171 SLKs features an electro-hydraulic conductor plate (VGS unit) submerged in hot automatic transmission fluid. Over time, thermal cycling and metallic sediment cause the integrated turbine and output speed sensors (Y3/8n1 and Y3/8n2) to fail, triggering diagnostic codes P0717, P0718, or P0705. When the signal drops, the transmission defaults into emergency limp-home mode, locking the gearbox into 2nd gear or reverse until restarted. Independent specialists can rebuild the plate, saving the cost of a brand new SCN-coded valve body.
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