Wiper Motor Failure in the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class R171 (2004-2011)

The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class R171 is a luxury sports car that was produced from 2004 to 2011. It was known for its sleek design and retractable hardtop, which gave it the versatility of both a convertible and a coupe. However, one issue that plagued the R171 was a faulty wiper motor, which could lead to a variety of problems.

 Serial Number Range

The affected vehicles fall within the following serial number range:

 WDB2034651A100001 to WDB2034651A167536

 Symptoms of Wiper Motor Failure

There are several symptoms that may indicate a faulty wiper motor in the SLK-Class R171:

 Intermittent or complete failure of the windshield wipers
 Wiper blades not parking correctly
 Wiper arms moving at an irregular or slow speed
 Unusual noises coming from the wiper system
 Warning light illuminating on the instrument panel

 Causes of Wiper Motor Failure

The most common cause of wiper motor failure in the SLK-Class R171 is a problem with the motor's electrical contacts. Over time, these contacts can become corroded or damaged, which can lead to a loss of electrical continuity and prevent the motor from functioning properly.

In some cases, the wiper motor itself may fail due to mechanical wear and tear. This can occur due to excessive use or exposure to elements such as dirt, water, and extreme temperatures.

 Consequences of Wiper Motor Failure

A faulty wiper motor can pose several risks and inconveniences to owners of the SLK-Class R171:

 Reduced visibility during inclement weather, impairing the driver's ability to safely operate the vehicle
 Damage to the windshield or wiper blades due to improper operation
 Electrical system malfunction due to a short circuit caused by the faulty motor
 Frustration and inconvenience for the vehicle owner

 Diagnosis and Repair

If you suspect that your SLK-Class R171 has a faulty wiper motor, it is important to have it diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. The following steps are involved in diagnosing and repairing the issue:

Diagnosis:

 Visual inspection of the wiper system to check for loose or damaged components
 Electrical testing to assess the integrity of the wiper motor's electrical contacts and wiring
 Mechanical testing to examine the motor's performance and identify any internal damage

Repair:

 If the wiper motor is still functional, cleaning and lubricating the electrical contacts may be sufficient to restore functionality.
 If the motor has failed, it will need to be replaced with a new or refurbished unit.
 Any damaged or worn components, such as wiper arms or blades, will also need to be replaced.

 Prevention

There are a few steps you can take to prevent premature wiper motor failure in your SLK-Class R171:

 Use the wipers sparingly, only when necessary.
 Keep the windshield clean to minimize debris that can damage the wiper blades and motor.
 Lubricate the wiper motor contacts regularly with a suitable electrical grease.
 Park the vehicle in a covered area or under a shade to protect the wiper system from the elements.

 Recall Information

Mercedes-Benz issued a recall for certain SLK-Class R171 models due to the faulty wiper motor. The recall was issued under NHTSA Campaign Number 11V163000 and affected vehicles manufactured between 2004 and 2005.

The faulty wiper motor in the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class R171 is a common problem that can affect a significant number of vehicles within the affected serial number range. While the issue is typically caused by electrical contact corrosion or mechanical wear, it can lead to serious consequences such as reduced visibility, damage to the windshield, and electrical system malfunction. If you suspect that your SLK-Class R171 may have a faulty wiper motor, it is crucial to have it diagnosed and repaired promptly to avoid potential risks and ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.