2008 SLK55 AMG Brakes - Page 2

**dsb** · 08-14-2007

Actually, the 'show me your wheels' thread has better examples. I hate to say it, but your rear brakes look like the rear brakes on the 350. It probably won't affect performance too much. It just loses a little appeal, that's all.

MDLSLK55 · 08-14-2007

Yeah, I really thought Bremen put 350 brakes on my 55 when I first looked at the rears, that's why it stood out so bad.

**Ynot** · 08-14-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by dsb

Actually, the 'show me your wheels' thread has better examples. I hate to say it, but your rear brakes look like the rear brakes on the 350. It probably won't affect performance too much. It just loses a little appeal, that's all.

They look exactly like 350 brakes, the front and rears, that's what mine looks like. The only thing different is the AMG logo. I really hope that's not the route MB is taking.

I looks like someone jack your AMG brakes, put the 350 ones in and painted the AMG logo on. I hope this is the case so you get your AMG brakes.

MDLSLK55 · 08-14-2007

^And that's why I left without the car the first time, but it's hard to argue with the window sticker on the car...

**dsb** · 08-14-2007

From a visual standpoint, the fronts look good. The rears are lacking. They should at least paint them like the fronts. When I had the 350, I considered getting them painted and then purchase a little AMG logo from Ebay.

Well, even if this is correct, per the window sticker, I'd try to forget about it. I personally have dwelled on the steering wheel with paddles. I've thought about upgrading it several times as I only have buttons. Ultimately, I've decided to live with it as it's almost purely cosmetic. The same could be said of your brakes IF you don't plan to drive it hard or track it regularly. In most cases, you'll probably never notice the difference between '07 and the '08 setup.

**FishtailnZ** · 08-14-2007

"New technology" must be MB-Speak for "de-contenting". Seems like '08 have even more reason now to opt for the 030 package.

Front brakes on mine:

Rear:

**-1-** · 08-14-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by dsb

....I hate to say it, but your rear brakes look like the rear brakes on the 350. It probably won't affect performance too much. It just loses a little appeal, that's all.

Well stated. I'm disappointed in MB. A larger rear caliper with ///AMG logo would have eased the pain. Who said "change is good"? Still, the 2008 SLKs have other positive advances.

DansSlk · 08-14-2007

OK checked with them this morning and they where not aware of any changes but my buddy's going to look into it to be totally 100% sure before he commits to any one answer.

They do look very much like 350 brakes I'll be honest with you and i cannot figure out why they would have any reason to downgrade them even if they retain the same stopping power the cosmetic effect alone was great, that back caliper really does look sh1te.

He did say the same as i mentioned before that he see's no reason why the 07 brakes could not be fitted should you want them, MD if your still going into your dealer this week i would really try and work something with 07 brakes even if you split the price down the middle or something.

Could you get a copy of the whole sticker please mate, you can blank out any personal details i just wanna see the info on the car.

MDLSLK55 · 08-14-2007

MBUSA called me back today...he said they were changed very recently, effecting the 2008's, and the reasoning is the large amount of complaints over brake squeal on the AMG's. He said they've been complaining to AMG for a while over the issue, so they've been changed, but that they offer the same stopping power as before.

Well, I'm not stopping at that, just sent an email to AMG through their website:

Quote:

I took delivery yesterday of a brand new 2008 SLK55 AMG, and I was shocked to see that the brakes on the car are drastically different from previous years. I actually left without the car the first time because we all thought the wrong brakes were put on the car, especially since no literature anywhere states that they have been changed. Well, after a day's worth of phone calls, it turns out the 13.4" 6-piston fronts and 13.0" 4-piston rears were swapped in favor of 13.6" 4-piston fronts and 11.8" 2-piston rears. I cannot understand why AMG would do something like this, especially since the rears are now too small to even put the AMG logo on!! However, the reps here claim that they were changed for 2008 due to many complaints about "brake squeal" and that they have just as much stopping power as the previous set up...I find that VERY hard to believe given the drastic downgrade in size.

**dsb** · 08-14-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by FishtailnZ

"New technology" must be Mercedes Benz-Speak for "de-contenting". Seems like '08 have even more reason now to opt for the 030 package.

Very good point. In fact, that probably would have worked on me! Before, I couldn't justify the difference in cost. Now, I definitely could.

.

**etyu** · 08-14-2007

I've sent an email to the salesperson at the local Mercedes Benz dealership including photos from MDLSLK55. I've asked him to relay the disappointment to the general sales manager, MBUSA and AMG.

**-1-** · 08-14-2007

Obviously, this is a change that's not going to be well received. Regardless of complaints, the change has been made and incorporated. Too bad you have to go with the 030 option to get the pre 2008 brakes. I wouldn't spend the extra money. Even though I'm not affected, I hate it for those that are now receiving their 2008 SLK 55s. This is a bitter pill to swallow, but if I was in the market for a 2008 SLK 55, I wouldn't let this deter me. I would be interested in the cost of retrofitting the 2005-2007 SLK 55 brake system. I'm sure it's going to be cost prohibitive for most.

**webslinger** · 08-14-2007

I am sure the '08 stops as well as the previous kit in the '07, but I have to say I'm happy I pulled the trigger on the '07 because I *love* the look of the twin brakes with the logos on them.

I'm sure most of us couldn't/wouldn't feel any difference in capability.

Paul · 08-14-2007

I can't believe that Mercedes didn't feel it had an obligation to inform you about this! I'm sure there are some 55 customers out there that wouldn't even notice the difference but Mercedes must know that, with the vehicle being an AMG, there must be a higher than average probability that you are a car enthusiast this is really going to p**s you off!!

I'm not sure if it's the same in the US but here in the UK (as far as I am aware, please correct me if I'm wrong!) the performance pack only upgrades the front brakes so wouldn't help the rear brake situation.

I think it only fair that Mercedes offer to fit the 07 brakes as a no cost option, you didn't put your deposit down on the "new and improved" brake system. If they don't agree to do it for free I would request that they provide documented evidence that this new system reduces brake squeal.

Corkscrew · 08-14-2007

Front and rear on my SL55AMG. Same as SLK55AMG?

DansSlk · 08-14-2007

Nice one Eddy!

Don, I will check mate but if the excuse they are using is squeal it could be that the performance pack wont have the bigger calipers either, as for a retrofit of 07's its about £400 per corner obviously that does not translate directly over to the US because of the exchange rate but i would expect it to be about the same in USD.

We need a test MDLSLK55 did mention it and i think we need a 2008 SLK and a version from any of the other model years, do something like 5/10 runs and work out the average, i would bet money the 08 does not stop as well no way the same size pads can be fitted.

Paul, I agree mate.

Corkscrew,

Almost same as the 05-07 SLK's system yeah but using different disks.

Paul · 08-14-2007

Just wondering Dan, has this or is this likely to be happening to the UK 2008 model?
I nervously await your response!

DansSlk · 08-14-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by ///AMG 55

hard to believe the calipers had to be down graded because of brake squeal. they could have just changed the brake pad compound. Thats the exact same brakes I had on the 06 C55.

seems more like the squeak was in the check book they were out to fix.

2 piece front rotors vs cost of 1 piece
6 piston calipers vs cost of 4 piston
4 piston rear vs cost of 2 piston

Ditto mate, i think we are all confident its an excuse to cost-cut.

A fix is already about for the squeal anyways

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paul

Just wondering Dan, has this or is this likely to be happening to the UK 2008 model?
I nervously await your response!

I will let you know as soon as i find out, but at the moment it don't see any changes to the UK models on EPC

VitaminT · 08-14-2007

I just don't see how it can stop the same with over an inch smaller rear disks and 2 less pistons and no perferations or slots. I mean even if the pad area is the same, which it probably isn't.

Another pic of the rear calipers.

For another picture without the spokes in the way you can check my garage page. I have one while i was on the dyno.

DansSlk · 08-16-2007

EPC 08/07 downloaded today and its currently showing 2 different calipers one for the US market and another for ROW.

Tech drawing look familiar? Perhaps its not AMG but MBUSA?

08-14-2007	#21 (permalink)
dsb Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: NorCal Vehicle: '06 slk55 Posts: 1,176 Country: Thanks: 67 Thanked 120 Times in 42 Posts	Actually, the 'show me your wheels' thread has better examples. I hate to say it, but your rear brakes look like the rear brakes on the 350. It probably won't affect performance too much. It just loses a little appeal, that's all. __________________ SOLD! 06 Mercedes Benz SLK55 Caspian Blue / Black & Ash *To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.*

08-14-2007	#25 (permalink)
dsb Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: NorCal Vehicle: '06 slk55 Posts: 1,176 Country: Thanks: 67 Thanked 120 Times in 42 Posts	From a visual standpoint, the fronts look good. The rears are lacking. They should at least paint them like the fronts. When I had the 350, I considered getting them painted and then purchase a little AMG logo from Ebay. Well, even if this is correct, per the window sticker, I'd try to forget about it. I personally have dwelled on the steering wheel with paddles. I've thought about upgrading it several times as I only have buttons. Ultimately, I've decided to live with it as it's almost purely cosmetic. The same could be said of your brakes IF you don't plan to drive it hard or track it regularly. In most cases, you'll probably never notice the difference between '07 and the '08 setup. __________________ SOLD! 06 Mercedes Benz SLK55 Caspian Blue / Black & Ash *To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.*

08-14-2007	#26 (permalink)
FishtailnZ Don't feed the trolls... Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Nfld., Canada Other Toys: Wife, kids, dogs... Posts: 1,490 Country: Thanks: 285 Thanked 211 Times in 94 Posts	"New technology" must be MB-Speak for "de-contenting". Seems like '08 have even more reason now to opt for the 030 package. Front brakes on mine: Rear: __________________ - Bill Waiting on a 2009 C63 Opal Fire Red/Alpaca Grey R.I.P. 2006 SLK55 Caspian Blue/Beige Stock 1/4 mile results: ET 12.72, trap 110.80, 60' 1.80 Some guys they just give up living and start dying little by little, piece by piece. Some guys come home from work and wash up and go racin' in the street... - B. Springsteen

08-14-2007	#28 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	OK checked with them this morning and they where not aware of any changes but my buddy's going to look into it to be totally 100% sure before he commits to any one answer. They do look very much like 350 brakes I'll be honest with you and i cannot figure out why they would have any reason to downgrade them even if they retain the same stopping power the cosmetic effect alone was great, that back caliper really does look sh1te. He did say the same as i mentioned before that he see's no reason why the 07 brakes could not be fitted should you want them, MD if your still going into your dealer this week i would really try and work something with 07 brakes even if you split the price down the middle or something. Could you get a copy of the whole sticker please mate, you can blank out any personal details i just wanna see the info on the car. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

08-14-2007	#31 (permalink)
etyu Founding Member #2 / Ambassador Of Good Will Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Orange County, CA Vehicle: 2008 SLK 55 Posts: 5,279 Country: Thanks: 376 Thanked 277 Times in 168 Posts	I've sent an email to the salesperson at the local Mercedes Benz dealership including photos from MDLSLK55. I've asked him to relay the disappointment to the general sales manager, MBUSA and AMG. __________________ *Eddy* To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Pewter/Beige, PIII package, Airscarf, Hands-Free Communication System, Lighting package Designo Black Leather Cover on e-brake handle, ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Bill T), SmartTop v1.0, Kleyman 3BFM (NoRegret Custom), Green Air Filters, *Mod. R170 ant., EuroClear sidemarkers w/PIAA PlasmaIon lamps, chromed front & rear turn indicator lamps, PIAA SuperPlasmaGTX front parking lamps, bilateral rear fog lamps enabled. Last edited by etyu; 08-14-2007 at 01:10 PM.*

08-14-2007	#22 (permalink)
MDLSLK55 Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Bucks County, PA & Overland Park, KS (Work) Vehicle: '08 SLK55 AMG Other Toys: '07 Infiniti G35x Posts: 214 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 2 Times in 1 Post	Yeah, I really thought Bremen put 350 brakes on my 55 when I first looked at the rears, that's why it stood out so bad.

08-14-2007	#32 (permalink)
-1- Don Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Virginia USA Vehicle: SLK 55 ///AMG The MON55TER on the block Posts: 2,224 Country: Thanks: 54 Thanked 57 Times in 41 Posts	Obviously, this is a change that's not going to be well received. Regardless of complaints, the change has been made and incorporated. Too bad you have to go with the 030 option to get the pre 2008 brakes. I wouldn't spend the extra money. Even though I'm not affected, I hate it for those that are now receiving their 2008 SLK 55s. This is a bitter pill to swallow, but if I was in the market for a 2008 SLK 55, I wouldn't let this deter me. I would be interested in the cost of retrofitting the 2005-2007 SLK 55 brake system. I'm sure it's going to be cost prohibitive for most. __________________ To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. *----------------1-----------------* --------SLK 55 ///AMG--------- THE MON55TER ON THE BLOCK

08-14-2007	#33 (permalink)
webslinger Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Bay Area, CA Vehicle: '07 SLK55 AMG Other Toys: Honda motorcycle Posts: 549 Country: Thanks: 22 Thanked 22 Times in 14 Posts	I am sure the '08 stops as well as the previous kit in the '07, but I have to say I'm happy I pulled the trigger on the '07 because I love the look of the twin brakes with the logos on them. I'm sure most of us couldn't/wouldn't feel any difference in capability.

08-14-2007	#34 (permalink)
Paul Senior SLK World Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Sheffield Vehicle: SLK55 Posts: 140 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	I can't believe that Mercedes didn't feel it had an obligation to inform you about this! I'm sure there are some 55 customers out there that wouldn't even notice the difference but Mercedes must know that, with the vehicle being an AMG, there must be a higher than average probability that you are a car enthusiast this is really going to p**s you off!! I'm not sure if it's the same in the US but here in the UK (as far as I am aware, please correct me if I'm wrong!) the performance pack only upgrades the front brakes so wouldn't help the rear brake situation. I think it only fair that Mercedes offer to fit the 07 brakes as a no cost option, you didn't put your deposit down on the "new and improved" brake system. If they don't agree to do it for free I would request that they provide documented evidence that this new system reduces brake squeal.

08-14-2007	#36 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	Nice one Eddy! Don, I will check mate but if the excuse they are using is squeal it could be that the performance pack wont have the bigger calipers either, as for a retrofit of 07's its about £400 per corner obviously that does not translate directly over to the US because of the exchange rate but i would expect it to be about the same in USD. We need a test MDLSLK55 did mention it and i think we need a 2008 SLK and a version from any of the other model years, do something like 5/10 runs and work out the average, i would bet money the 08 does not stop as well no way the same size pads can be fitted. Paul, I agree mate. Corkscrew, Almost same as the 05-07 SLK's system yeah but using different disks. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening. Last edited by Bill T; 08-15-2007 at 07:41 AM.

08-14-2007	#37 (permalink)
Paul Senior SLK World Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Sheffield Vehicle: SLK55 Posts: 140 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	Just wondering Dan, has this or is this likely to be happening to the UK 2008 model? I nervously await your response!

08-14-2007	#39 (permalink)
VitaminT Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Alabama Vehicle: 2005 SLK55 Posts: 361 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	I just don't see how it can stop the same with over an inch smaller rear disks and 2 less pistons and no perferations or slots. I mean even if the pad area is the same, which it probably isn't. Another pic of the rear calipers. For another picture without the spokes in the way you can check my garage page. I have one while i was on the dyno.