Mercedes SLK R171 Rear Bumper Towing Eye Cover Obsidian Black Metallic - 197

Visual condition of the part

The product shows signs of use visible in the photos.

Mercedes SLK R171 Rear Bumper Towing Eye Cover Obsidian Black Metallic - 197 is an original body component that restores the cohesive look of the vehicle's rear. Thanks to its precise fit to the bumper lines and factory Obsidian Black Metallic paint finish, this part allows you to aesthetically cover the towing eye opening and maintain the uniform styling of your sports roadster.

Specifications and technical data

• SKU: A1718850023-OB
• Mark: Mercedes (Genuine OE)
• Condition: Used
• OEM Part Number: A1718850023
• Substitutable numbers: A1718850023, A 171 885 00 23
• Location on the vehicle: Rear
• Color: Obsidian Black Metallic - 197
• Category: Bumper Inserts & Covers

Purpose and function of the component

The presented Mercedes SLK R171 Rear Bumper Towing Eye Cover belongs to the group of body components responsible for shielding and aesthetically finishing the bumper. It is mounted in the rear part of the vehicle, in the factory-designated spot for access to the towing point. Once installed, it masks the opening, limits the ingress of dirt, and helps maintain proper airflow around the bumper.

The component is structurally designed to work with the stock bumper of the SLK R171 model, which facilitates installation and ensures a stable fit in the socket. Consequently, no additional modifications or shape adjustments are required after replacement.

Color and visual fit

The cover is finished in the factory Obsidian Black Metallic color, designated by paint code 197. This is a popular, dark metallic shade used in Mercedes models that blends well with the body lines and emphasizes the car's character. Using the original color reduces the need for additional painting, provided the bumper has the same shade.

Thanks to the maintenance of proper geometry and surface profile, the cover creates a flush surface with the bumper after installation. In practice, this means a consistent look for the rear of the body and the absence of unsightly gaps resulting from the use of non-original replacements.

Technical specifications and installation

The component belongs to the Bumper inserts and covers category, meaning it was designed as a part complementing the bumper structure rather than as an independent load-bearing component. The cover works with the factory mounting points in the bumper, which facilitates installation and removal for service or painting needs.

The product is marked as used, which in practice means it comes from the disassembly of an original Mercedes vehicle. Such components are often chosen for post-accident repairs or restoring body completeness when individual details are missing. The original origin promotes the maintenance of proper fitment and compatibility with other bumper parts.

Use in repairs and restoration of the Mercedes SLK R171

The rear bumper towing eye cover is particularly useful in situations where:

• after a collision or bumper removal, the original towing eye cover is missing,
• the existing component is mechanically damaged or shows significant signs of wear,
• body restoration work is being carried out and it is necessary to replace missing details.

Using an original cover allows you to restore the full functionality and aesthetics of the rear bumper without having to resort to universal solutions. This is an advantageous solution for both body and paint shops as well as individual users who care about the consistent look of their SLK.

Related components and further knowledge

If you are planning a comprehensive repair or upgrade of the rear bumper area in your Mercedes and need other elements from the same group, such as additional inserts, covers, or complementary caps, check the available parts in the Mercedes bumper inserts and covers category.

To better understand why original used body components are often the optimal choice in terms of durability and cost, it is worth reading the article Mercedes – comfort, prestige, and durability. Why is it worth choosing original used parts?, which discusses the practical aspects of selecting parts for cars of this brand.