SL/R230: Newer car versus lower miles?
10-10-2009, 04:04 AM
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Newer car versus lower miles?
Looking seriously at picking up an 03-05 SL. Budget is low 30s, which could put me in an 03 w/ 30-40K miles, or an 05 w/ 60-70K miles.
Any thoughts on which of these is the smarter option?
Also wondering what the average lifespan of the shock are -- I see these are very expensive to replace. I understand this will vary by driving style and road conditions, but if you had to throw a ballpark number out there, what would it be?
Thanks for any advice.
Any thoughts on which of these is the smarter option?
Also wondering what the average lifespan of the shock are -- I see these are very expensive to replace. I understand this will vary by driving style and road conditions, but if you had to throw a ballpark number out there, what would it be?
Thanks for any advice.
Last edited by hickersb; 10-10-2009 at 04:16 AM.
10-10-2009, 04:42 AM
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His wifes head hard into the headboard nightly!!
Looking seriously at picking up an 03-05 SL. Budget is low 30s, which could put me in an 03 w/ 30-40K miles, or an 05 w/ 60-70K miles.
Any thoughts on which of these is the smarter option?
Also wondering what the average lifespan of the shock are -- I see these are very expensive to replace. I understand this will vary by driving style and road conditions, but if you had to throw a ballpark number out there, what would it be?
Thanks for any advice.
Any thoughts on which of these is the smarter option?
Also wondering what the average lifespan of the shock are -- I see these are very expensive to replace. I understand this will vary by driving style and road conditions, but if you had to throw a ballpark number out there, what would it be?
Thanks for any advice.
10-10-2009, 08:33 AM
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2003 SL 500
What ever you buy make sure that all of manuals and service records are available. MB does keep very detailed records concerning their product and you can discover a lot by checking the information available on a VIN number. Good luck.
10-10-2009, 11:01 AM
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If anything there are probably more issues with an '05, not less. Same would apply to the '04. These were the first two years for the 7-speed automatic. '07 and newer is very likely a step up in reliability over the earlier cars.
Last edited by bobterry99; 10-10-2009 at 11:04 AM.
10-10-2009, 12:32 PM
#5
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Regardless of it's a 2003-2005, the transmission on these cars is pretty solid. Again, the major thing is to find an SL with all service records, and request a VMI report from the dealer. Speaking to other owners and my technicians, the 7-speed tranny is pretty good, but it's the suspension, and complex gadgetry which frustrates owners.
If you are getting a high-mileage SL, I would suspect, the problems have been worked out. Check the VMI. If not, then, look to get a good extended warranty, unless you have deep pockets.
good luck
If you are getting a high-mileage SL, I would suspect, the problems have been worked out. Check the VMI. If not, then, look to get a good extended warranty, unless you have deep pockets.
good luck
10-10-2009, 02:22 PM
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His wifes head hard into the headboard nightly!!
I would post this question on the Tech Help forum at peachparts.com. A dealer tech has better insight about this than anyone on this forum.
If anything there are probably more issues with an '05, not less. Same would apply to the '04. These were the first two years for the 7-speed automatic. '07 and newer is very likely a step up in reliability over the earlier cars.
If anything there are probably more issues with an '05, not less. Same would apply to the '04. These were the first two years for the 7-speed automatic. '07 and newer is very likely a step up in reliability over the earlier cars.
