2006 SLK55, Should I get a warranty ?

[Mavster]

Hi Guys,

I am thinking of getting this car. My question is : are they reliable or should I factor in the cost of a very comprehensive warranty?

I would have thought that with the 55 engine and gearbox having been proved in other AMG;s they should be fine.

Please do let me know your thoughts asap, as I may be buying in next 48 hours...should I steer clear?

Thanks chaps for the advice.

Steve

 

[BTB 500]

A warranty is the same as any other insurance - statistically you will be better off (financially) without ... that's how they make money.

For peace of mind I'd personally I'd want a good one year warranty though. After 12 months you can take an informed decision whether to continue with it or not.

 

[Bosco]

A warranty is the same as any other insurance - statistically you will be better off (financially) without ... that's how they make money.

I've never heard it explained better, well done.

 

[markjay]

A warranty is the same as any other insurance - statistically you will be better off (financially) without ... that's how they make money...

Yes but...

A (very) wealthy friend of mine rarely takes out insurance - other than where mandatory - his view is that he is wealthy enough to shoulder any cost.

Most people take out insurance not because it's statistically a good deal, but because they can't afford the potential loss.

And yes, this is how insurance companies make money - if everyone were very well-off then presumably few people would buy insurance.

 

[Mavster]

Very helpful thank you late night team.

You guys are right about the warranty..

I can afford a one off payment for a couple of £K but can't afford a one off £8k for a new gearbox for example.. Does anyone know if the basic car (SLK55) is known for requiring a warranty, I know it is also a "luck of the draw" thing on individual cars however..,


I read that the SLK350's etc are potentially a little troublesome, but couldn't find much on the AMG variant. Maybe that is my answer

If anyone has any experience then please share with me.

Cheers

Steve

 

[lxi]

There will always be two schools of thinking on this - depends what car is driven. I've just tradeed in an SL55 AMG after nearly four years or ownership. It's a different animal to the SLK, so my expereince needs to be taken in context. The engine is bulletproof. The 5 speed box also. The SL has very complex suspension (ABC) which does go wrong. The cost of getting mine through it's MOT was £3,500 - two front struts, just because of slightly worn ball joints. It developed another fault on the same system (unrelated) which cost a further £2,500. That's this year alone.

All of these costs were met by Warranty Direct on a policy that cost me about £700 / year. The maths aren't difficult! Each previous year I had it the payout has been at least twice the premium

Now, the SLK is less complex (a compliment rather than criticism), I am unaware of anything like the level of issues your will likely get on an SL R230 so you can take your chance as mentioned.

Conversely, Warranty Direct will deal right down on price for the model you mention - I would guess top level for £600 a year at the very most, probably even less.