Erik_350

Hi guys,

So I want to step out of my S-Class into something new. I have been considering other cars, but I am quite interested in the SL. I am considering a 2003-2006 SL500, I really don't want a V12.

I don't know much about the differences among 03-06 SLs. So I would like to know what has changed in those years or if most of the components and options have stayed the same. I would also like to know which were the good and bad years (maintenance/reliability wise) as well as common issues.

Lastly, any must-have options? I know the SL doesn't have some of the toys in the S. Still would like some nice amenities

bobterry99

2003 SL500 has 5-speed automatic; later years have 7-speed.

COMAND was revised in 2005.

All years in question are probably equal in maintenance and reliability.

kbob999

Must have?
AMG kompressor - drive one. You won't be disappointed.
Pano roof - nice when top is up, and you want to see the world.
All other options I could live without, but would be nice to have.

Rudeney

Due to quality problems, I would avoid the 722.9 7-speed transmission until at the earliest MY2008. I believe it was MY2005 when it was introduced in the R230.

bobterry99

This is the second instance in recent days where I have read of problems with the 722.9. I did a search on another forum and found this comment by a dealer technician in 2006:
An '08 issue of Consumer Reports cited the transmission as being a problem area for the '05 SL500.

Rudeney

There were many issues with early 722.9 transmissions. First of all, the fluid pump used a sleeve bearing instead of a needle bearing which cause excessive wear, creating metal particulate in the fluid and a whining noise. The torque converters were also an issue, again causing excessive particulate in the fluid. Of course regular fluid/filter changes (every 40K miles) would pretty much take car of that, but the big issue was the defective conductor plates which would cause speed sensor failures resulting in limo mode. Since the TCU is integrated into the conductor plate, and it's now a part of the drive authorization system, tit becomes a dealer-only job for about $1400 part/labor. Finally, the software has gone through many iterations. One of the early complaints was a clunk or jerk wne slowing to a stop as the transmission shifted 2-1. The solution was an update to DELAY the final downshift to 1st until the car was stopped. This helped, but then it also causes an early 1-2 shift, so customers complained about that.

Basically, the software is an easy issue, but the hardware (conductor plates, torque converters, fluid pumps) are the expensive stuff. I disassembles the 722.9 in my CLK550 to replace the fluid pump and torque converter, and I found a cracked front drum bearing. That does not give me great confidence in these transmission. Yet again, I bought my second one last week when I traded my 2007 CLK550 for a 2011 SL550. But you need to know I am perfectly capable of pulling the transmission for repairs if needed. YMMV.

carguyshu

spend the extra money and get an SL55. Its barely more money and comes with a lot more performance. Will also come with about the same maintenance costs too. If you're not a DIY guy that likes to do research and only takes a car to a shop for repairs, the r230 can get expensive fast.

Hary Gahtoe

Get a good Indi first! Drive a 500, try a 55. Have your Indi do an SDS error code and update check. Massage seats are available. Pano, DVD based nav are nice but I'd buy a more desireable color combo first
Good Luck

bcgreen

My wife is interested in getting a 2005 or later SL500. So I am assuming your saying that the SL55 will be less problematic? Of all the SLs, are the SL55 bullet proof compared to the SL 500? What is the best year for the SL500 or a SL55?

kbob999

They are basically the same car, so no more or less problematic.
BUT, the SL55 has bucket loads more power and your wife will be giddy with excitement. Need I say more...