Second Hand Mercedes-Benz SLK Camshaft

The SLK ran across three generations — R170 (1996–2004), R171 (2004–2011), and R172 (2011–2020) — and camshafts are engine-specific, so the first thing to establish is whether both cars share the same engine code, not just the same generation or badge. Even within a generation, different engine variants (for example a 200K versus a 350 in the R171) use entirely different camshafts and are not interchangeable. Confirm your engine code from your V5 or a VIN check and supply it to the breaker — that single detail will tell them far more than the model year alone. Never assume fitment across a generation boundary without the breaker confirming against both registration numbers.

The R171 and R172 are completely different generations with different engine families, so camshafts from one will not simply cross over to the other even if the displacement sounds similar — a 2.0-litre or 3.5-litre engine in the R172 is a different unit to its R171 equivalent. Your engine code (stamped on the block and listed on your V5) is the definitive reference, and you should give this to the breaker so they can match the part precisely. Do not rely on engine size or badge alone when sourcing a used camshaft.

Diesel and petrol engines are fundamentally different designs and their camshafts are not interchangeable at all; a diesel camshaft is matched to the injection and combustion characteristics of that specific engine. The SLK was offered with diesel variants in certain markets, but UK supply was limited and you should verify your exact engine code rather than assuming which unit is fitted. Give the breaker your engine code and fuel type together so they can source the correct camshaft for your specific unit.

The camshaft itself is driven by the engine and is not directly affected by whether the gearbox is manual or automatic — the same engine code in a manual and an automatic SLK will use the same camshaft. That said, gearbox type can sometimes influence ancillary components around the engine, so it is worth mentioning your gearbox to the breaker when you make contact, just so they can flag anything relevant. The engine code remains the most important detail to supply.

Trim or specification labels like SLK 200 Kompressor, SLK 280, or SLK 350 actually denote different engines entirely rather than just cosmetic or equipment differences, so in this case the badge does directly indicate a different engine and therefore a different camshaft. However, within a single engine variant — for instance two cars both badged SLK 200 Kompressor on the R171 — trim level in the usual sense (interior spec, paint, options) has no bearing on camshaft fitment whatsoever. Always confirm the engine code rather than relying solely on the badge, as mid-production engineering changes can mean cars with the same badge carry subtly different engine specifications.

Many modern Mercedes-Benz engines, including units used across the SLK range, use separate inlet and exhaust camshafts per cylinder bank, so it is common for breakers to list them individually or as a pair. When contacting a breaker, specify whether you need the inlet cam, exhaust cam, or both, along with your engine code, so they can confirm exactly what they have available from a donor vehicle. Sourcing both from the same donor engine is often preferable for peace of mind on wear and compatibility, but confirm this with the breaker when discussing the parts.