SL/R230: Looking at a MB SL600 2004 or 5
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 11
From: The FREE WORLD
1995 SL320- Good bye sweetheart, 2005 SL600 Hello gorgeous! 1995 Ferrari 355 GTS, 2006 BMW M6,
Looking at a MB SL600 2004 or 5
Hi
New to the group but have been impressed with the posting
I am looking to buy the good wife a used SL as that is her dream car. and she has tolerated my passion for cars over the years.
A year ago we bought a 1995 MB SL320 which was fine except that in the hot days of summer it would not cold start.
Long staory nobody can find what to do expet replace the ECM which is a pretty penny ( 2G)
It appears that the convertible module is also gone and needs replacedmen so the 12 G car bought for grins after a careful insepction is a nightmare.
OK so back to the drawing board as it is my wife's 50th Birthday coming up.
SL prices have become acceptable for me and even though I would prefer an SL 55 the idea of a car ridden hard and put away wet concerns me so the thought has turned to an SL 600 hopefully with a panoramic roof.
What should I be looking for with regards to potential issues with this car?
Many thanks from a newbie
New to the group but have been impressed with the posting
I am looking to buy the good wife a used SL as that is her dream car. and she has tolerated my passion for cars over the years.
A year ago we bought a 1995 MB SL320 which was fine except that in the hot days of summer it would not cold start.
Long staory nobody can find what to do expet replace the ECM which is a pretty penny ( 2G)
It appears that the convertible module is also gone and needs replacedmen so the 12 G car bought for grins after a careful insepction is a nightmare.
OK so back to the drawing board as it is my wife's 50th Birthday coming up.
SL prices have become acceptable for me and even though I would prefer an SL 55 the idea of a car ridden hard and put away wet concerns me so the thought has turned to an SL 600 hopefully with a panoramic roof.
What should I be looking for with regards to potential issues with this car?
Many thanks from a newbie
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 1,653
Likes: 5
From: Ann Arbor
'03 SL55
The SL600 is a great car! I don't quite follow the comment about driven hard and put away wet, though.
The biggest thing to check is the service history. Although it's something of an oversimplification, it seems that the R230s with a less problematic service history experience fewer problems in the here and now. That's certainly the case with my 2003.
Good luck! Hope you find a good one!!
The biggest thing to check is the service history. Although it's something of an oversimplification, it seems that the R230s with a less problematic service history experience fewer problems in the here and now. That's certainly the case with my 2003.
Good luck! Hope you find a good one!!
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 11
From: The FREE WORLD
1995 SL320- Good bye sweetheart, 2005 SL600 Hello gorgeous! 1995 Ferrari 355 GTS, 2006 BMW M6,
Driven Hard and put away wet
These cars are meant to be driven but some are driven irresponsibly and parts get neglected or abused.
I would like to find a car that is driven and worshipped for the great car that it is.
Too often I have seen SL55 and other high performance AMG/M cars using launch control settings and other aggressive driving techniques and not cared for afterwards to the extent that these fine autos need.
I figure that a SL600 owner appreciates their car and is less likely to drive it like a hot rod and not invest in good care.
I would like to find a car that is driven and worshipped for the great car that it is.
Too often I have seen SL55 and other high performance AMG/M cars using launch control settings and other aggressive driving techniques and not cared for afterwards to the extent that these fine autos need.
I figure that a SL600 owner appreciates their car and is less likely to drive it like a hot rod and not invest in good care.
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 531
Likes: 17
'08 CL600 with 152k km; '01 E430 4Matic with 433k km; '17 Porsche Cayenne with 130k km
I'd like to add onto that...
Not to mention the fact that *maybe* the ignition coils may go out as well. You should see if those have been replaced. My mom has a 2004 CL600 and it took $6K to fix an annoying engine misfire. But my mom would rather keep the car than start paying the bank again. We own the car, and unless the engine blows up, there's not too much that will cost more than a few grand. Much cheaper than buying a new CL600 that's for sure!
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 11
From: The FREE WORLD
1995 SL320- Good bye sweetheart, 2005 SL600 Hello gorgeous! 1995 Ferrari 355 GTS, 2006 BMW M6,
Would you think that a well maintained SL 600 03-05 would be better than either a SL55 or SL500 ?
It is for my wife who like to drive but is rather gentle to the M6.
I think the 12 cylinder is a best option when one considers performance and luxury, but
obiviously I would prefer to drive the 12 cylinder myself
If the car is not as reliable as the SL55 or SL500 then that is a different matter.
Ghaffer I can relate to your mom.WE just did the valves and guides on our F355 GTS OUCH! but I could not get rid of it.
It is for my wife who like to drive but is rather gentle to the M6.
I think the 12 cylinder is a best option when one considers performance and luxury, but
obiviously I would prefer to drive the 12 cylinder myself
If the car is not as reliable as the SL55 or SL500 then that is a different matter.
Ghaffer I can relate to your mom.WE just did the valves and guides on our F355 GTS OUCH! but I could not get rid of it.
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
From: Phoenix Az
SL600, 535
I just bought an 04 SL600 and could not be happier. I was able to find a cpo at the dealer with a warranty that was extended to 3 years from purchase. It is super clean, and has a great repair history (not many repairs needed). The clean cars do exist, just search and be willing to travel if needed to get it.
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Super Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 911
Likes: 1
From: Wichita
2005 SL600, 2011 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite
Would you think that a well maintained SL 600 03-05 would be better than either a SL55 or SL500 ?
It is for my wife who like to drive but is rather gentle to the M6.
I think the 12 cylinder is a best option when one considers performance and luxury, but
obiviously I would prefer to drive the 12 cylinder myself
If the car is not as reliable as the SL55 or SL500 then that is a different matter.
Ghaffer I can relate to your mom.WE just did the valves and guides on our F355 GTS OUCH! but I could not get rid of it.
It is for my wife who like to drive but is rather gentle to the M6.
I think the 12 cylinder is a best option when one considers performance and luxury, but
obiviously I would prefer to drive the 12 cylinder myself
If the car is not as reliable as the SL55 or SL500 then that is a different matter.
Ghaffer I can relate to your mom.WE just did the valves and guides on our F355 GTS OUCH! but I could not get rid of it.
These are complex cars with many subsystems. The engine is the least of your worries.
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Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 99
Likes: 4
2007 SL550
+1. Drivetrains on these cars are solid. The real issues are the brakes and suspension. Both are electronic, complex, and some cars seem to have problems, especially the ABC suspension, failed pumps, and leaking struts. Electronics have also been an issue, and the COMAND systems are complex and do have issues occasionally. My SA also mentionned these cars are either Jekyl or Hyde: some are trouble free, and others keep having issues. I agree about trying to find a moderate-mileage example with a good service history.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 11
From: The FREE WORLD
1995 SL320- Good bye sweetheart, 2005 SL600 Hello gorgeous! 1995 Ferrari 355 GTS, 2006 BMW M6,
Thanks to all for great information.
We are on the hunt for a SL 600 with a panoramic roof and hopefully no gremlins.
I have looked at the site for thoughts on an extended warranty and will look for that as well. First stop is the MB dealer in town then onward.
Will post pictures when successful
We are on the hunt for a SL 600 with a panoramic roof and hopefully no gremlins.
I have looked at the site for thoughts on an extended warranty and will look for that as well. First stop is the MB dealer in town then onward.
Will post pictures when successful
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 11
From: The FREE WORLD
1995 SL320- Good bye sweetheart, 2005 SL600 Hello gorgeous! 1995 Ferrari 355 GTS, 2006 BMW M6,
The hunt continues
The SL600 is not an easy car to find but I am more convinced than ever that this is the right car. The electronics and other super tech devices on the car are indeed of concern if they fail due to cost.
I have scoured the warranty posts and felt confident that a chrysler EW would be a good fit.
That is until I went to our local MB dealer.
First he didnt have a car nor has he been able to locate one at all even though I have asked him to look for more than 8 weeks
When we asked him the cost of certifying a 35,000 mile 05 SL600 that we located on our own he told me the minimum cost with a 3 year warranty would be $6000.
He was adamant that a non CPO MB warranty would be problematic and further that all MB mechanics are insistent that engine issues are much more numerous on a 12 cylinder than an AMG SL55. Then of course he said I have a great deal
50k down we will give you you 7 k on you 95 320 SL and only 750 a month for a 09 SL550.
We left soon thereafter but a little confused.
Which report should we go by
Auto Check or car fax ?
If a well
respected after market warranty is available for sub 3k for 4 years is there a need for getting the car CPO from MB at more than double the cost for one year less of coverage
Sorry for the long post.
The hunt is mostly fun of only the characters would be more predictable
I have scoured the warranty posts and felt confident that a chrysler EW would be a good fit.
That is until I went to our local MB dealer.
First he didnt have a car nor has he been able to locate one at all even though I have asked him to look for more than 8 weeks
When we asked him the cost of certifying a 35,000 mile 05 SL600 that we located on our own he told me the minimum cost with a 3 year warranty would be $6000.
He was adamant that a non CPO MB warranty would be problematic and further that all MB mechanics are insistent that engine issues are much more numerous on a 12 cylinder than an AMG SL55. Then of course he said I have a great deal
50k down we will give you you 7 k on you 95 320 SL and only 750 a month for a 09 SL550.
We left soon thereafter but a little confused.
Which report should we go by
Auto Check or car fax ?
If a well
respected after market warranty is available for sub 3k for 4 years is there a need for getting the car CPO from MB at more than double the cost for one year less of coverageSorry for the long post.
The hunt is mostly fun of only the characters would be more predictable
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 55
Likes: 0
From: Dirty Jerz
2004 SL600
Not to mention the fact that *maybe* the ignition coils may go out as well. You should see if those have been replaced. My mom has a 2004 CL600 and it took $6K to fix an annoying engine misfire. But my mom would rather keep the car than start paying the bank again. We own the car, and unless the engine blows up, there's not too much that will cost more than a few grand. Much cheaper than buying a new CL600 that's for sure!
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
From: Phoenix Az
SL600, 535
The MSRP on the 2 year cpo extension is $4,000 (plus what ever the origional CPO cost is). When I bought mine they would not negotiate on that price. AS mentioned in the post above this, one repair could cover the cost pretty easily. The car is amazing and if it is what you want keep looking, your car is out there somewhere.
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
2005 SL600, 2015 E350 wagon, 2013 SL63
SL600
I have a 2005 SL600, and absolutely love the car. I don't expect to drive anything else in the future, unless they all go the way of the dodo bird. With that said, I will never drive one without a warranty. Everyone has already said this, but it is just expensive to fix. Mine was CPO so I still have three years of warranty after driving it for two years. I just found out from my dealer that as long as it has less than 85000 miles on it, I can get another extended warranty the dealer swears is good, when this one expires. Haven't explored the cost or coverage, as I don't need it for three years, and things probably will change, but the point is, the warranty is necessary in my opinion.
With all that said, rather than trust the dealer on the availability of the SL600, if you have not done so, check MBUSA web site where they list all CPO cars around the country. I have no idea whether it is complete or not but for instance they have one 2005 SL600 listed in Texas. Just a suggestion of where to look.
With all that said, rather than trust the dealer on the availability of the SL600, if you have not done so, check MBUSA web site where they list all CPO cars around the country. I have no idea whether it is complete or not but for instance they have one 2005 SL600 listed in Texas. Just a suggestion of where to look.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 11
From: The FREE WORLD
1995 SL320- Good bye sweetheart, 2005 SL600 Hello gorgeous! 1995 Ferrari 355 GTS, 2006 BMW M6,
Great tip
Thanks RDL
Spoke with Michael Sugarland MB
Not a CPO but a 43k mile care with Renn Tech ECU only
Prevents it from becoming a CPO
Off warranty but still very clean looking
I am having a friend check it out this week
Appreciate the help
Shachar
Spoke with Michael Sugarland MB
Not a CPO but a 43k mile care with Renn Tech ECU only
Prevents it from becoming a CPO
Off warranty but still very clean looking
I am having a friend check it out this week
Appreciate the help
Shachar
Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 161
Likes: 4
From: Yokohama& Tokyo, Japan
1994 AMG E60 (W124); 1997 SL600; & few others that I cannot fit in here
My comment is limited to V12 only since mine is a '97 SL600 (R129 model) which I have purchased as used and owned for ten years now. V12's smooth as silk, so quiet that it is almost like an electric car. Power is phenomenal, considering that it is a naturally aspirated. The engine is bullet proof. Nevertheless, maintenance costs are more due to many of the parts being more expensive than other lower model SLs. Just recently, I had the two rear suspensions replaced and found out that SL600 suspensions are different and more expensive than SL500. Various plastic parts do fatigue and lead to replacements. Electrical wirings do show up as problems. I do not mean to scare you away. Once you drive these V12s, it is hard to go back to V8 or less. Good luck in your search. I am sure your wife would love whatever you choose for her. w/ smiles Jimmy
Last edited by Jimmy Chen Shib; Aug 4, 2009 at 12:42 AM. Reason: spelling correction
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,703
Likes: 5
From: Arizona
SL55AMG, Ferrari 348, Ferrari Testarossa, Ferrari F40, Ferrari Mondial t, Ducati 916, Indycar
These cars are meant to be driven but some are driven irresponsibly and parts get neglected or abused.
I would like to find a car that is driven and worshipped for the great car that it is.
Too often I have seen SL55 and other high performance AMG/M cars using launch control settings and other aggressive driving techniques and not cared for afterwards to the extent that these fine autos need.
I figure that a SL600 owner appreciates their car and is less likely to drive it like a hot rod and not invest in good care.
I would like to find a car that is driven and worshipped for the great car that it is.
Too often I have seen SL55 and other high performance AMG/M cars using launch control settings and other aggressive driving techniques and not cared for afterwards to the extent that these fine autos need.
I figure that a SL600 owner appreciates their car and is less likely to drive it like a hot rod and not invest in good care.
I have clients whose SL600s look more like the inside of a purse, have overdue service, neglected parts, etc.
So, just because a car is owned by an enthusiast doesn't mean that it was abused.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 11
From: The FREE WORLD
1995 SL320- Good bye sweetheart, 2005 SL600 Hello gorgeous! 1995 Ferrari 355 GTS, 2006 BMW M6,
Point taken
Dino:
As an M6 owner I understand your statement as I too am neurotic about the car. Lets disqualify owners who neglect these beauties.
Still if we take the typical SL55 and compare it to the typical SL600 owner one must accept the fact that the SL55 is made to be driven harder and thus has more stress on the engine and other components.
Trying to find the best example of each has been fun
In the end a smoother V12 is what I think will fit my wife ( and me) best.Thanks Jimmy for the example post
Still hunting
I am very grateful to this site and its participants
As an M6 owner I understand your statement as I too am neurotic about the car. Lets disqualify owners who neglect these beauties.
Still if we take the typical SL55 and compare it to the typical SL600 owner one must accept the fact that the SL55 is made to be driven harder and thus has more stress on the engine and other components.
Trying to find the best example of each has been fun
In the end a smoother V12 is what I think will fit my wife ( and me
) best.Thanks Jimmy for the example postStill hunting
I am very grateful to this site and its participants
Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 161
Likes: 4
From: Yokohama& Tokyo, Japan
1994 AMG E60 (W124); 1997 SL600; & few others that I cannot fit in here
Dino:
As an M6 owner I understand your statement as I too am neurotic about the car. Lets disqualify owners who neglect these beauties.
Still if we take the typical SL55 and compare it to the typical SL600 owner one must accept the fact that the SL55 is made to be driven harder and thus has more stress on the engine and other components.
Trying to find the best example of each has been fun
In the end a smoother V12 is what I think will fit my wife ( and me) best.Thanks Jimmy for the example post
Still hunting
I am very grateful to this site and its participants
As an M6 owner I understand your statement as I too am neurotic about the car. Lets disqualify owners who neglect these beauties.
Still if we take the typical SL55 and compare it to the typical SL600 owner one must accept the fact that the SL55 is made to be driven harder and thus has more stress on the engine and other components.
Trying to find the best example of each has been fun
In the end a smoother V12 is what I think will fit my wife ( and me
) best.Thanks Jimmy for the example postStill hunting
I am very grateful to this site and its participants
Newbie
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Palm Beach Gardens, FL
SL55
Just traded 04 SL55 for 06 Renntech SL600. the new car blows the 55 away. there is really no comparison. One is smooth and fast like a jet. the other is rougher and makes more noise. Your pick, there are enough available to make a choice. Check ebay listings to start, and then negotiate directly after looking, inspecting. If the car has any factory warranty left, than you can get Mercedes extended warranty for under 4K. Have fun looking
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 11
From: The FREE WORLD
1995 SL320- Good bye sweetheart, 2005 SL600 Hello gorgeous! 1995 Ferrari 355 GTS, 2006 BMW M6,
The hunt continues
Good info lawteam
Are there different stages of Renntech?
What about an off warranty Renntech SL600?
Is there a warranty for such a beast?
Are there different stages of Renntech?
What about an off warranty Renntech SL600?
Is there a warranty for such a beast?
Newbie
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Palm Beach Gardens, FL
SL55
there are several stages of Renntech performance upgrades. I have the ECU and TCU upgrades (engine computer and Transmission computer). If you go to the Renntech web site they list all upgrades. http://www.renntechmercedes.com/
As far as warranty, I don't know if aftermarket warranties are available. However, if you can find a car with some factory original warranty still left, you can get extended Mercedes warranty. my local dealer said Renntech upgrades really don't matter and would not be a problem unless they felt it was the specific cause of a problem. they work with Renntech regularly.
Good luck in your search.
Evan
As far as warranty, I don't know if aftermarket warranties are available. However, if you can find a car with some factory original warranty still left, you can get extended Mercedes warranty. my local dealer said Renntech upgrades really don't matter and would not be a problem unless they felt it was the specific cause of a problem. they work with Renntech regularly.
Good luck in your search.
Evan
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 32
Likes: 11
From: The FREE WORLD
1995 SL320- Good bye sweetheart, 2005 SL600 Hello gorgeous! 1995 Ferrari 355 GTS, 2006 BMW M6,
Finally snagged one! 2005 SL600 Black with Charcoal Pano roof 17k miles Man is it a sweet ride. Brought her back from the dealer ( 125 miles) and truly gained an appreciation for the car. Many Thanks to all. Pics to follow. Now to learn about all the goodies in this car
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 8,137
Likes: 26
From: Maryland
Eurocharged 2004 E500, Eurocharged ECU/TCU 2005 SL600, 2010 Caddy SwaggerWagon
I've put the same amount of miles on her in 3 weeks that the previous owner put on in 2 years. 
Price, just for comparo reasons?
Last edited by Benz-O-Rama; Aug 10, 2009 at 12:30 PM.
Super Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 644
Likes: 0
From: In a VAN down by the river
His wifes head hard into the headboard nightly!!
Congrats on the purchase, I know you've been looking for a while. Took me 3 months of searching, but, I also just picked up a very low mileage 2005 SL600 (12,500 miles). No pano roof though. I've put the same amount of miles on her in 3 weeks that the previous owner put on in 2 years.
Price, just for comparo reasons?
I've put the same amount of miles on her in 3 weeks that the previous owner put on in 2 years. Price, just for comparo reasons?
