I am considering a 1999 SL600 with 29K miles. I have searched the forums, and it appears the 1999 is immune from transmission and harness problems. Is there any potential defect I should be looking for? I have heard horror stories about the suspension and stability control; is that a problem for 1999 cars as well? I plan to have the dealer check out the car, but would appreciate any pointers.

 

You should go to an independent mechanic who has the MB computer software to check the MB cars in additional to checking for oil leak and stuff. They will be able to print a report and recommed you what need to be done and changed better than MB dealer will. (or you can show that report to MB to have them fix if it is still under extended warrenty, or the person who is selling you the car and nego a better price for getting those thing fix) The report cost about $100 if you don't know the mechanic or they can do it for free if you plan to take your car to them for services. (it only takes like 5 - 10 min to run the report).

To my knowledge, the air suspension the 600 (my GF has a 98 s600) has can have problem with their air level after a few years, but according to MB, their "level of tolerence" can be quite high and still consider the car in good condition when the suspensions need to be changed in less than 10,000 miles (or the car is not even level, can be more than a inch off on one wheel). And since these are air-suspensions, it cost over $1000 to replace each one. You will notice the suspensions have failed (usually in the rear) when the ride gets really bouncy.

However, the 600 is indeed something else with its all around leather interior and not to mention the V12. Do remember that it is a V12 and it drinks gas. You will see the needle drop even if you are just taking a 25 miles trip.

Oh, my GF S600 is an everyday car (still driving it) and has over 160,000 (or 180,000, I forgot) miles. So with only 29K, you sure will enjoy the car for many years to come.

 

Also, because the 600s are quite rare, their parts are quite expensive and usually you have to wait longer to get them compare to the 500s.

Also, have the mechanic check the wirings too b/c the 600s get really hot and for a car that age, some wires covering might have been harden, melted or crack. To change those out are really expensive too.

There are also other members in the form that owns the Sl600 can an offer very good opinions. Just wait and see.

 

I don't think the air suspension was carried over to the r129. However, they do have the hydrolic suspension that may need some attention if problems arrise. You might want to test out the suspension features before buy the car. There are two levels of ride height increase that can be actively controlled and one level of ride height decrease which is activated after 60mph(?). Also, there is a "sport mode" that makes the suspension stiffer for sporty driving.

If you fear any repairs may come in the near future, there are some third party warrenties that may help. Of course, only for a certain amount of time, but at least it gives a time frame for any mishaps that may happen.

 

I am concitering a 1999 SL600 with 76,000 miles and the used car dealer has it sitting on the lot looking like a low rider. He tells me that the suspention wont go up and needs work. The car is really clean. I dont know what to do. They want 8,900$ U.S.

 

Howudoinralph do check the hydrulic fluid level....

if its empty there must be leak somewhere, normally from the tandem pump steeering/suspension combination and it's related hoses/couplings. if the fluid level is full starting the engine will rise the car to it's setting.