Table 1 shows two common exterior lighting related problems of the 2001 Mercedes Benz SLK.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Brake Light problems | |
| Exterior Lighting problems |
I am an owner of a 2001 Slk 320. I have had chronic problems with headlamps and brake lamps going out , bulbs melting in lamps on brakes as well as headlamps. In the beginning these repairs were paid under manuf. Warranty. However, I am paying for replacement bulbs, most recently a headlamp problem I will have to have replaced at a cost close to $600. Today I received a recall from mercedes notice for the brake lamp problem. I question that the same may be true of headlights. My condition of brake and headlights being replaced as well as a brake lamp replaced in the past, was so chronic, I ordered and paid out of pocket for electrical testing on my car where nothing wrong was discovered. My point here is that I feel in addition to the brake light problem addressed by mercedes in my recall # 2006-080005, I believe it would be remiss for safety purposes to not announce that I believe the same condition applies to my Slk headlights. Also, for such problems on the brake lights that existed in the past, what recourse do I have in monies I laid out of pocket, pertaining to the chronic brake light problem in my Slk 320. Thank you.
Rear brake lamps failed over and over since vehicle purchased in 2001. Dealer replaced bulbs numerous times and last replaced l & r bulbs on 12/29/2006 at 29005 miles. In April 2007 a safety recall was issued for rear brake lamps failure. Rear lamps failed once again at 39697 miles and vehicle was brought in to beverly hills mb to have recall performed on may 30, 2008. Rear brake lamps have failed once again as of 6/1/ 2012 with 78000 miles on vehicle in spite of the recall. Inspections by an independent mercedes repair facility as well as simonson mercedes, santa monica reveal that the lamp sockets are failing due to electrical arcing and beginning to melt resulting in failure of the rear brake lamps to function. I am concerned that this is a serious safety issue which may result in a rear collision. I am hoping that yet another safety recall campaign can be initiated as it seems that the first recall was not entirely effective. Thank you.