maybach123

So i am still deciding what model but i am thinking of buying a sl class. stuck between 07 amg sl55, sl600, and an 04 amg sl65. Are there any issues with the sl class i should know about? i dont have particularly deep pockets but i work with a shop that can get most of the non dealership repairs done without me paying to much. any problem areas for the cars i listed above?
Thanks
Maybach123

AMG X

For the SL55: ABC & SBC.

For the SL600 and SL65: See above in addition to Coilpacks/Sparks and engine mounts.

Read up on those and you will soon know that the SL is not for someone who doesn't know these cars or doesn't have deep pockets to play (especially for the V12 ones). This isn't to scare you away, but it sounds like it may not be the best option in your case.

maybach123

Are all of these things problematic throughout all the model years or is there a certain point where it becomes less problematic. essentially should i pay another 5-10 thousand for a newer year in hope of avoiding these problems.

carguyshu

the problems are prevalent through all model years

BlownV8

Doesn't sound like the SL is the car for you. Are you in Europe? SL65 didn't debut until 2005 in the US.

Ghostty

We're not here to scare you, but lets say that when you're buying this car you should be ready for expenses. It doesn't mean that you will end up spending 10k a year on it, but a little more than just for oil and filter change. Very many parts that can go bad or break.

Saying that i'm a happy owner who's maintenance costs have been $0 in unplanned/unexpected maintenance. Although i'm planning to do a ABC flush, and if to do it not home be ready to pay $300-600 for it. Simple planned maintenance. Things like that keep most people out of the class If you're up for the challenge - more than welcome to buy one.
Otherwise look for other models of MB - SLK, CLK, or a convertible E class

Regards

SteveL1

Make sure you have a really good aftermarket warranty and you should be fine. Plan on a min of $6k for one. Just last week I looked at an '08 SL55 at a MBZ dealer wth 39k miles and that's what they quoted to cover everything with zero deductible.

STL-SL500

I agree with SteveL1 wholeheartedly! I wasn't going to purchase a warranty at time of purchase, however, the voice in the back of my head told me to do so & I am SO VERY GLAD that I did so...along with the dealership offering a very attractive price on a warranty from a reputable warranty company/underwriter, to date, the warranty company has spent approx. $12k+, while I, on the other hand, have only been $600 out-of-pocket so far (and receive a dealer MB loaner when it is in for service); just make sure it's an, "exclusionary warranty" in which the MB dealerships near you accept, and you should be good to go. NOTHING drives or has the quality feel & look of an SL when it is running properly, not to mention the jealous looks you'll receive while driving it!! Take your time, wait until the, "right one" for you becomes available, and, no doubt, you will be hard pressed to ever let it go! Best of Luck!

funymuny

Wholeheartedly agree that the Exclusionary Warranty contracts are the only way to go. Must read what is excluded however typically these are the top of the line contracts offered by the vendors. An insurance company backing means likely to be in business to honor the warranty.

V8SL500

Had my 2003 R230 for 13 years now with only 60,000km on it. Although only summer driven, be prepared with the expenses of just normal wear and tear of old parts. I spend about $1000 a year to maintain the car. Just had my shifter lock replaced last year (the shifter will not move from parking to drive) costing $1300 at dealership. Also replaced a lot of rusted parts such as control arm, bushings and wear and tear such as brake pads, rotors, etc. There is also leakage in the roof when it is under a high pressure car wash. The trunk air suction lock stopped working. I'm surprise the ABC and roof is still functional.

Service A and B will cost about $800 at dealerships

stykshooter

You have 3 options when buying one
1st . You better be a good DIY, 1st thing buy a SDS system somewhere between 700 to 1000 dollars. Parts are expensive too..
2nd. Buy an exclusionary warranty
3rd. You'll need depth pockets

jtse

Who knows where I can get an exclusionary warranty for a 2003 SL55?

Much appreciated in advance!

J

funymuny

http://extended-car-warranty-service...enreviews.com/

I'm sure they will tell you.

Davesca

Same as others say, I have a 2009 SL600. Its an amazing car, but when things break, its expensive. Engine mounts are a concern (must remove the engine to replace them I am told). The SL600 with Renntech tune is a monster on the freeway, not so fast right off the line. Wish I had gone for the after-market warranty, as mine had 34,000 miles, and some issues directly from the dealer. Also found that a low-mileage vehicle carries its own risk. Mine seem to build sediment in the trans fluid, and that gave out at 37,000 miles. Nothing that $4600 couldn't fix. It is the best riding Mercedes we have owned, no doubt.

BlownV8

Something might be wrong with your 600 if it is not good off the line. Mine is a monster off the line as was my previous 600.

Davesca

That certainly may be. Any suggestions? Once its moving a bit, its okay, but for example, my wife's new E350 Sedan is very snappy, and would beat the SL for the first 30 - 50 yards, I think. Same with my GLA45.

AMG 17GT

Pedal box will fix that hesitation

Davesca

The PedalBox fixed most of the initial throttle delay and nice that its adjustable. Really made a better daily driver out of it (around town throttle response.