SL-Class (R230) 2003 -- 2012: Discussion on the SL500, SL550, SL600

SL/R230: Lowering - Will there be issues?

Old Aug 22, 2011 | 03:11 AM
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Lowering - Will there be issues?

I'm planning to lower my sl500, and was wondering if anyone had problems with computer error messages ie: Stop, car too low?
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Old Aug 22, 2011 | 11:34 PM
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Seems like a risky move with the ABC system.

I find ground clearance is about as low as I'd want with the standard setup -- after spending $350 to repair the prior owner's spoiler damage...
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Old Aug 24, 2011 | 03:19 PM
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I used lowering links on my 2007 SL550. No issues with rubbing or messages from the ABC, but do make sure you get the wheels aligned! I didn't and just had to replace all 4 tires after less than 10k miles due to excessive wear on inside inch or so causing the tire surface to come away from the side wall!
If you lower beyond a certail level, you will need camber arms to ensure the camber can be dialed in to prevent the wear.
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Old Aug 25, 2011 | 10:04 PM
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I have 20", what about the suspension bolt in the front of the car? That bolt only gives me about 3/8 clearance...
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Old Aug 25, 2011 | 10:40 PM
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Ive been lowered via SDS for a while now with zero issues.
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Old Aug 25, 2011 | 11:37 PM
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^ How much did it cost for you to lower via SDS?
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Old Aug 26, 2011 | 10:26 AM
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Originally Posted by gearshifter
^ How much did it cost for you to lower via SDS?
The alignment guy at your MB dealership is the one who would do it. That is, if (1) your dealer admits that they can do it, and (2) they agree to do it. You also need to get it aligned during the lowering process, if you do the SDS method. I paid my dealer for the alignment, left $100.00 in the console for the alignment guy to lower it, and slipped my service advisor $40.

So what...maybe $250, or something like that?
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Old Sep 7, 2011 | 09:24 AM
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Originally Posted by Benz-O-Rama
The alignment guy at your MB dealership is the one who would do it. That is, if (1) your dealer admits that they can do it, and (2) they agree to do it. You also need to get it aligned during the lowering process, if you do the SDS method. I paid my dealer for the alignment, left $100.00 in the console for the alignment guy to lower it, and slipped my service advisor $40.

So what...maybe $250, or something like that?
Very smooth!
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Old Sep 7, 2011 | 07:18 PM
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Lowered on lowering links with no issues at all.
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Old Sep 7, 2011 | 07:35 PM
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S55 on lowering links

I have my car lowered on lowering links, no issues at all (I did roll my fenders just to be safe). Ride feels close to the same and the looks are amazing. If you are going to have a lowered car, no matter what kind of car, you need to be cautious about entering and exiting entrances, parking curbs, bumps in the road, etc. You can always raise it up by pushing the comfort/4x4 button if you are aware of problem areas.

Sorry, just realized I was responding in the SL section.
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Old Sep 8, 2011 | 01:46 PM
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Originally Posted by Benz-O-Rama

So what...maybe $250, or something like that?
It that at Euro in Bethesda?
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Old Sep 8, 2011 | 05:11 PM
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There is a member in the SL55 section selling links GO GET THEM never used ones at that.
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Old Sep 8, 2011 | 06:19 PM
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Originally Posted by Benz-O-Rama
Ive been lowered via SDS for a while now with zero issues.
What is/are SDS?
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Old Sep 9, 2011 | 05:21 AM
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Originally Posted by Benz-O-Rama
The alignment guy at your MB dealership is the one who would do it. That is, if (1) your dealer admits that they can do it, and (2) they agree to do it. You also need to get it aligned during the lowering process, if you do the SDS method. I paid my dealer for the alignment, left $100.00 in the console for the alignment guy to lower it, and slipped my service advisor $40.

So what...maybe $250, or something like that?


You guys will be AMAZED at what you can get done if you treat the service advisers and technicians well. Bribes, bevmo gift cards, and kindness go a long way.
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Old Sep 9, 2011 | 05:23 AM
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Originally Posted by T Dub
What is/are SDS?
SDS = Star Diagnosis System

This is the best way to lower a car as it uses the stock system. This is important if you have an aftermarket (or factory) warranty as it makes it hard to "prove" that your car is actually lowered.

You are probably safe with lowering links...but should you get caught...warranty claims may be denied due to the altered suspension.
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