Just how bad is this - subframe on 2008 SLK 200

[Mazzo]

Hi

Put my car in for a service today (even though the previous owver did it 3 months ago) because I trust where I have it done and I wanted them to give it the once over. I was expecting something engine related (noisy tappet, injector issue or something I couldn't hear myself) however what I got back was quite a shock.

The subframe was rusty and the rear brake pipes very rusty. Considering this went through an MOT on 1st September, this was a BIG shock. So just how bad is it? I have never owned an SLK before - I have had E class, R class and CLK but never one of these. Here's the pics and I'd appreciate any suggestions about a) either how bad it is and if it is worth repairing the current subframe - or b) it's going to cost you this to get it done - or c) get your money back! The car is lovely, with no dinks and drives beautifully, so it is kind of a shame to give it back.

Pictures:

Easy one - the gearbox sump is rusty - not so bad - about £80 to sort.


Rusty rear brake pipes. These seem to have been mentioned on previous MOTs as an advisory but not on the current one.


Subframe rust #1


Subframe rust #2

So, is this really bad? Do I get it patched or find another subframe? I have contacted the seller. He is a surprised as I am (and I actually beleive him) and he is offering to get it sorted - it's just I don't know what that actually will mean (patch, fill, cover up.....) and so I may be better off getting it done myself and asking him to foot the bill or at least contribute to it.

I am really peed off as it is a great car and looks the business with no dinks or marks on it. Inside is like new.

Any advice, gratefully received from those who know just how bad or otherwise this is.

Ta

 

[LostKiwi]

Don't see anything to be concerned about with that subframe but given they rot from the inside it's impossible to tell.

 

[mioba]

Hard to say without giving it a good poke with a screw driver.
The brake pipes might clean up with wire brushing and a spray, but again hard to say.

What has your trusted mechanic said.

Subrame failure is not uncommon and there has been regular posts on this the last few years.

patching - no

Complete new subframe if the only way if its shot. if the cars a keeper and you may even get a contributiin from the seller then thats good.
As mentioned not uncommon sadly.

 

[LostKiwi]

Depending on mileage and service history MB may even replace it if it is toast.

 

[Blobcat]

Plenty of cases of rear subframe failures due to rust unfortunately. Have a search of the forum there are many threads…

 

[KennyN]

See pics of worse subframes but as they seem to corrode from the inside out it is difficult to tell until they fail , the brake pipes on the other hand , considering it was MOT`d four weeks ago they are shocking.

K

 

[Cole@MBS]

Them brake pipes are shot, I wouldn’t even try to clean them, I do all the brakes pipes at work and no there waiting to let go, the subframes all look like that on the SLKs, some do hole first but most common is to rip the top mount out of the frame and the wheel try’s to do a 90 turn, never seen a sump pan that rusty either!!! Is it a Scottish car you any chance??

 

[Cole@MBS]

This one this week wasn’t even very rusty but still left a big hole when I tapped it with a spanner!!

 

[Mazzo]

Wow, thank you for the really quick replies.

The mechanic said "this looks like it's been a seaside car" but I bought it from Leicester. I get it back tomorrow, so may thump it about a bit with a screwdriver/hammer and see if owt falls off.

It is a keeper if I can. Really like it - it has done a lot of miles but is very together and drives like it is a much newer car (105k miles). Gears change smoothly and, driving it carefully, I can get nearly 40mpg. It's got the SLK pack, so wide spoked wheels, red stitching and seatbelts. Just replaced the bog standard radio with an android one that does both Android Auto and CarPlay. Works a treat although the aerial picks up next to nothing now.

I am kind of relieved by most of your comments. If it is a bad subframe (once I smack it around a bit) then I will ask the seller to sort it. As for the brake pipes, I have a long and happy background with Vauxhall Vivas (still have) and even on those, I can't recall seeing anything THAT bad in 35 years. The mechanic said "Two really harsh braking episodes in that, and I could see one of those bursting." Not good and I am amazed at the MOT missing them.

Thanks again. I'll report more tomorrow. But yes, if I can, I'd like to keep the car.

 

[Mazzo]

Depending on mileage and service history MB may even replace it if it is toast.

I phoned MB. It was last serviced by them in 2016 so they said £99 to investigate and then they have to get MB to decide if it is a fault and free replacement or not. It didn't sound that hopeful to be honest.

 

[RhodieBill]

IF nothing else I would get the ATF Sump replaced asap! Not too expensive and an easy DIY job. And while you're at it change the ATF Filter and top up with fresh ATF.... Just measure what comes out and replace same with fresh.

 

[star]

Hi all, this car was in with us today, we didn’t poke the subframe as we knew in that condition, it would only be a matter of time. The brake pipes are really badly corroded and also the transmission sump. Lots of general corrosion underneath. Bearing in mind, we had already sprayed it all in spray grease.
If it were mine and I had the chance to back it, I would. There’s better out there. It would also need some of the panels repainting due to poor previous repairs. Feel free to call me, I’ll pm you my personal number to discuss the best options or pop down Monday with it and I can walk you around the car. Regards Ian.

 

[bladecrazy]

Them brake pipes though?, if they missed them what else is there , this mot looks like a favour for a favour, that sump pan is just a matter of time.