Used Mercedes-Benz SLK AC Compressor

This depends on whether both cars share the same engine code, not just the model year — the SLK R171 generation ran from 2004 to 2011, so both years sit within the same generation, which is a good start. However, there were running production changes during the R171's life, and whether ancillary mounting points and fittings match across that gap is something you should confirm with the breaker against your registration. Give the breaker both registration numbers and they can cross-reference the engine codes directly. Never assume fitment is guaranteed without that check.

The R170 ran from 1996 to 2004 and the R171 from 2004 to 2011 — these are two distinct generations with different engines and different engine bays, so a straight swap is very unlikely. The engine code is the key detail here, and R170 and R171 units generally don't share the same engine families. Route this one to the breaker with both registration numbers and let them check whether any overlap exists for your specific codes. Fitment across a generation boundary like this is not something to assume.

Yes — the compressor follows the engine code, not the badge, so an SLK 200 Kompressor, SLK 250, and SLK 350 will typically use different units because they run different engines. The trim name or badge alone tells you very little; what matters is the engine code shown on your V5 or via a VIN check. Supply your engine code to the breaker and they can match it correctly. Never rely on badge or displacement alone when sourcing a mechanical part like this.

Trim level itself does not affect AC compressor fitment — what matters is the engine code underneath, which can vary independently of the trim name. An AMG-badged SLK will have a different engine code to a standard SLK 350, so the compressor requirement follows from that engine code, not the AMG badge. The cosmetic and interior differences between trims are irrelevant to this part. Give the breaker your engine code rather than your trim name and you'll get a much more accurate match.

The R171 received a facelift in 2008, and while the generation runs from 2004 to 2011 as one nameplate, there can be ancillary and mounting changes introduced during production that aren't always visible from the outside. Whether a pre-2008 compressor crosses over to a post-2008 car cleanly is something you should confirm with the breaker against both registrations — name the 2008 facelift when you call so they know exactly which boundary you're asking about. The engine code remains your most important starting point.

Your registration is a useful starting point and any good breaker will use it to look up your engine code via trade databases, but it's worth finding the code yourself too — it's printed on your V5C and can also be retrieved from a VIN check. The engine code is the single most reliable detail for matching a mechanical part like an AC compressor, far more so than year or badge alone. Having it to hand when you contact a breaker will speed things up and reduce the risk of being quoted the wrong unit. You can also ask the breaker to confirm the code they're working from before agreeing a purchase.