SL/R129 '91 300 SL - Average Maintenance Costs?

Aug 17, 2009 | 09:00 PM

Tom Sederburg

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From: St. Louis, MO, United States of America

Daily - CL600

'91 300 SL - Average Maintenance Costs?

Hey Guys,

I was thinking about getting a 1991 300SL for my girlfriend to drive a few hundred miles a week but first I was curious if anyone could tell me what to expect mantenance $$$ wise? I have a CL600 and know all about the high costs that can be associated with Mercedes ownership but hopefully the 300 is much less of a money pit?

Oh yeah, she is planning to be driving it with a hardtop on all the time so no worries about the windshield leaks... right?

Curiously,
Tom

Aug 18, 2009 | 12:27 PM

pcviewer

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2006 Aston Martin Vantage

I don't have any input about the maintenance cost but I may have some input on the "windshield leaks." The only leaks that I am aware of come from the top of the A pillars (not from or through the windshield itself). From my understanding, this only affects pre '96 model SL due to the rubber seal wear from the door windows' pressure upon each closing. I am pretty sure that the wear happens to the hardtop and not the A pillar seals, but it could very well be both. A possible way to reduce/delay pressure wear is to always have the window opened a crack before closing the door and close the windows using the remote. That is, if it isn't already worn.

Just a note, '96 (or '97) and newer SL's changed the rubber seal shape as well as lower the door windows a bit when the door is opened and raises when the door is closed.

Nov 30, 2009 | 11:28 PM

dmacruntrac

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1991 mercedes 300 sl

i already have leaks at the A pillars on my 91 300 sl, what is the best way to solve this problem?

Dec 28, 2009 | 01:20 AM

mbtech3@hotmail

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From: Birmingham, Alabama

300sl

Black butyl rubber sealant installed behind the factory rubber seals repaired my leaks. I had to remove the rubber seals at the A-pillars and windshield header. Next, I cleaned the body with alcohol to remove all dirt and impurities, then I installed black butyl rubber sealant (comes in rolls of black butyl rubber cord). I reinstalled the factory rubber seal and have had no problems since. 5 years ago.

Dec 28, 2009 | 01:28 AM

mbtech3@hotmail

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From: Birmingham, Alabama

300sl

I only have to change the oil every 5000 miles, drain and fill the transmission fluid every 15,000 miles, replace the brake fluid every 3 years, and install a new cabin filter every few years. These are the at no cost to me due to I'm a technician. It does not cost that much and it's the best damn car I've ever owned. The wiper trans is expensive $1200 bucks, mine broke before. The trans is expensive to have rebuild or replaced. Replacement trans is $6000.00, for a rebuild expect to pay a minimum $1700 to $2300. Depending on the extent of worn parts. I rebuilt mine, but I did all the labor. Only cost me about $250 in parts. That is all I have had to do to mine in the last 6 years. I still recommend driving one though.

May 6, 2010 | 11:39 PM

sonett1

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Joined: May 2010

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76 & 80 450SL, 91 300SL

'91 300sl average maint. cost

Make sure the soft top operates properly prior to purchase. Mine has issues and now, have an appointment with a second repair place as first was unable to resolve. Have a
feeling this WILL NOT BE INEXPENSIVE to repair. Today the turn signal will only operate
left indicator even when in the position for right signal. I have 2 450sl's, The '76 I have owned for almost 30 years....never had these issues. I still love the old 450's!

Sep 11, 2012 | 07:20 AM

buckbrother

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Joined: Sep 2012

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From: Harborcreek, Pa

1991 300sl roadster 4 speed automatic

New owner of a 1991 300sl, it's my first MB so I am new at it. I bought it out of storage because it was diagnosed by a local MB mechanic as having a problem with the ignition ctr module. He couldn't get one or he didn't want to pay for one. It took me two weeks of finding modules used for 500 to 1500 dollars. Then I found a place in Florida that rebuilds them and they give a three year warranty if you also install a new ignition bosch coil with it as they say an aged coil is the reason for the failure in the first place. It has sat I have a failed pump on my front headlight washer and some turn signal problems. A lot has to do with sitting in the garage for two years. I love the way the side marker lights are removed. Lift the hood, push a metal clip and they slide right out. And snap right back in. I bought this car to repair and then resell. Everything works well. The tops lock right in I have experienced not leaks. It handles excellent. I am afraid if I keep it much longer I will want to keep it and then I will have to get rid of my 1938 ford two door sedan, no room for two...LOL