SL/R230: Vapor locks?
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 14
Likes: 0
GL320 SL550
Vapor locks?
Hello, I've been having a problem getting my SL550 to start after it has been shut down for 10-20 minutes. The car is under MB warranty.
The service department says that the problem is caused by a vapor lock and that I should use a mid-grade fuel. Of course, this would void the warranty, so I won't.
Has anyone else had this problem? Thanks!
The service department says that the problem is caused by a vapor lock and that I should use a mid-grade fuel. Of course, this would void the warranty, so I won't.
Has anyone else had this problem? Thanks!
Last edited by Forever; Feb 10, 2011 at 07:36 PM. Reason: spelling
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 353
Likes: 83
From: Bonita Springs, FL
2021 Cirrus Silver S580 AMG, 2020 Polar White GLE350
I have never heard of vapor lock occurring on an SL550. You should use premium fuel by a major refiner (BP, Shell, etc.) and not go down to a lower octane. I would check the technical forum further down on the forums list and see what they have to say. Vapor lock is not normal and is a symptom of some other problem (if you are using quality fuel). You may want to call another service manager at a large MB dealership and get their opinion. TwinCam
Senior Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 323
Likes: 1
From: Marina Del Rey,Ca.
06' BMW M3
...I realize this does not apply to your SL....but vapor lock is not normal..and like Twincam said...it is probably a symptom of another problem... I had a 66' Chevy Corvair...and it would vapor lock all the time....but I always chalked it up to being an air cooled engine and I lived in the low Desert area at the time...also had VW's(air cooled) and they never had any vapor lock issues...my Dad sold the Corvair because we could not determined the cause...GL
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 6,171
Likes: 16
300E a couple 1994 w124wagon E320 Wagon/,1971MGB Track/Rally, MG Midget Autocross ,2000 E320 wagon.
Hardly such thing
on a fuel injected engine.
Take it to a better shop.
Vapor lock on a FI engine? they are bsing you.
Take it to a better shop.
Vapor lock on a FI engine? they are bsing you.
