The Good
The 2012 SLK-Class offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury. Its sleek design and retractable hardtop deliver emotional appeal, while the comfortable interior, responsive handling, and decent fuel economy provide practical benefits. The powerful engine options and available safety features further enhance its appeal to a wide range of buyers. Even now, the driving experience and iconic status remain desirable.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2012 SLK-Class include potential issues with the retractable hardtop mechanism, electrical glitches, and higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury vehicles. Some owners have reported issues with the COMAND system. Check for oil leaks, especially in the SLK350 and SLK55 AMG. Pre-purchase inspection is crucial to identify existing problems.
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- SLK250: 1.8L Turbocharged Inline-4
- SLK350: 3.5L V6
- SLK55 AMG: 5.5L V8
- Horsepower:
- SLK250: 201 hp
- SLK350: 302 hp
- SLK55 AMG: 415 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- SLK250: 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- SLK350: 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- SLK55 AMG: 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- SLK250: Approximately 6.5 seconds
- SLK350: Approximately 5.4 seconds
- SLK55 AMG: Approximately 4.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable; the SLK-Class is not designed for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- SLK250: Standard features include a retractable hardtop, MB-Tex upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, a 5.8-inch color display, and alloy wheels.
- SLK350: Adds leather upholstery, a more powerful engine, and upgraded audio system, and larger wheels.
- SLK55 AMG: Features a high-performance V8 engine, AMG-tuned suspension and brakes, unique styling elements, and premium leather upholstery. It also includes sport seats, AMG instrument cluster, and enhanced performance features.
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK-Class |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Sports Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | BREMEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3397 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4090 pounds |
| Overall Height | 51.20 inches |
| Overall Length | 162.80 inches |
| Overall Width | 71.50 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 95.70 inches |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.5-L V-6 DOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 7-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $54,800 |
| Invoice Price | $50,964 |
| Delivery Charges | $875 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Have?
Recalls for the 2012 model year may vary. Checking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website is recommended for the most up-to-date recall information.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the complexity of the car's systems. The numerous electronic components and the sophisticated hardtop mechanism can be prone to failure over time. Regular maintenance, especially fluid changes and inspections of the hydraulic systems for the top, is crucial. The SLK55 AMG, with its high-performance engine and components, may require more frequent and costly maintenance. Some earlier model years of the R172 generation (2012-2013) had reports of timing chain issues, so it's essential to listen for any unusual engine noises.
How long will the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class last?
Long-term durability weaknesses primarily involve the electronic systems, the hydraulic components of the convertible top, and potential corrosion in regions with harsh winters. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more significant and expensive repairs.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features include standard stability control, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. Optional features include Parktronic parking sensors and adaptive headlights.
Safety features encompass multiple airbags, including head and thorax airbags, and a rollover protection system.
One standout optional feature was the Magic Sky Control, a panoramic glass roof that could electronically darken or lighten. Also available was the Airscarf system, which blows warm air onto the necks of occupants for comfortable top-down driving in cooler weather.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS should be consulted for comprehensive safety information. Please note that ratings may vary depending on the specific testing year and methodologies used by these organizations. Owners should always refer to the official sources for the most accurate data.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Prices and Market Value
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Cost of Ownership
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Fuel Efficiency
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
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2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Compare to Other Convertible?
Reliability is a mixed bag; all three can experience issues. The Z4 and TT might be slightly more reliable according to some reports, but maintenance costs for all remain high. In terms of price, the used market for all three models is competitive.
Alternatives to consider include the Porsche Boxster. While often more expensive, the Boxster offers superior handling and a more engaging driving experience. The Nissan 370Z Roadster, though lacking the SLK's luxury, provides a more raw and affordable sports car experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities: luxury and a retractable hardtop favor the SLK, while driving dynamics might point to the Boxster.
Ranks #105 Convertible
| 1 | 2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2015 Lexus IS | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2009 Honda S2000 | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF | (4.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 BMW 8 Series | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2021 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Audi S5 Sportback | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ferrari F8 Spider | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster | (4.0★) |
| 11 | 2021 Jeep Compass | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2019 Buick Cascada | (0.0★) |
| 105 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class a Good Convertible?
Buying used is the only option now, and a pre-purchase inspection is crucial. The SLK350 offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy, while the SLK250 is more economical. The SLK55 AMG is for those prioritizing high performance. Be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs. If you value brand image and convertible style over outright reliability and low running costs, the SLK can be a rewarding purchase.
michaelmross on June 4, 2023
This is a chocolate box of a carThis is a chocolate box of a car. I give it to German engineering and craftsmanship for packing everything into this model. I wonder if anything with a combustion engine has been made better than this? Right now, I can't think of anything I don't like about it - even keeping it clean is a pleasure. OK, paying premium gas takes getting used to. The big question.... Am I good enough to deserve this? It's a crime ($23.5K for a 2012 model, with Sahara leather and burled walnut, with just 59k on the odo. Took it straight to a Mercedes car specialist to look over. Happy to report it's in tiptop condition. ) PS I don't know about reliability yet. But I had to rate it, so was optimistic. I was careful to study the Carfax service history for my vehicle - and am going into this knowing that TOC is going to be "higher than average".
Rusty M on January 21, 2023
So Much fun and Reasonable to Obtain and Maintain.Bought my 2012 SLK350 in 2020 used with only 40,000 miles on it. One of the best investments I could’ve made, certainly before the onset of huge price increases of used cars. Mine is the Steel Gray exterior with Sahara Beige (real) leather interior along with with burl wood accents. I certainly prefer the 3.5L V-6 with its 302 HP and its quick acceleration. After updating maintenance & reconditioning the interior & exterior, the SLK is trustworthy to take on long road trips without worry. The only complaint I have is that the footwell gets extremely warm in the summertime even with the hardtop down. This is a known characteristic of the SLK and Corvette based on design & nature of the vehicles.
Retired on July 17, 2022
Mecedes- Benz 250 SLK2012 MB 250 SLK. Great car with less than 37,000 miles. Looks great and runs great. I love the handling of this vehicle. Everything works as expected. Taking it on a road trip next weekend.
Senior couple on January 23, 2021
Stunning style and fun to drive.All the bells and whistles . Convertible for sunny days. The interior in new like condition. Can't wait to hit the road and enjoy the sun.
Weekend Cruisers on January 2, 2021
Love the Exhaust NoteMy heart always beats a little faster when I push the start button on this SLK 350. The exhaust sound let’s me know it’s alive and ready for another fun drive. This is an all around great car, plenty of power, great handling, very comfortable and an outrageous Harmon Kardon sound system. Good fuel economy for a V-6 30 mpg on the highway and 20mpg around town. Mercedes really hit the mark with this car, a great value for the price.
Skip - almost 80 & having fun on May 13, 2019
Fun car that Wow’s everyone who ask about itConsidered a Corvette first but this car suited my needs much better. Love it! Small car with a lot of heart, comfort, style. Gotta love it.
SLK driver on April 21, 2019
2nd SLK I've ownedI love my cars & tend to keep them much longer than normal and keep them in pristine condition. I had a 2007 SLK 280 but an accident totaled it. It was a dream of a car so I bought a 2012 SLK 250 to replace it. The 2012 has a beautiful exterior design and runs great but. ... The interior is CHEAP. The 'leatherette' seats are not holding up, the cover for the roof control fell off, the vinyl cover to the glove box came loose, the audio system goes haywire periodically till all you get is static or switches channels by itself, plugging in an usb drive also messes up the radio, the entire steering column had to be replaced, a decorative piece of trim between a vent and the screen fell off. In 5 short years the quality plummeted. When comparing the interior quality with my husband's Pathfinder with my Mercedes its almost embarrassing.
samiam on April 10, 2019
Great car. So fun to drive.Have so much fun driving this car. It's our date car. Always look forward to spring so the top can be down. the neck scarf and heated seats are wonderful for evening drives on those cool nights.
MercedesBenzAlltheway on July 23, 2018
Very powerfulA great small compact car! Super powerful with a great pull. The interior is beautifully designed, the only downside for me is the 2 seats. That's the only problem.
Old Sporty Guy on April 27, 2018
Best looking car I've ever ownedSporty, stylish and an eye catcher. I've received more positive compliments on this car that any car I've ever owned. This car is also the fastest car I've ever owned not to mention my first convertible.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.