SL/R230: Advise
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Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 152
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2009 CLK550 convertible, 2012 ,,E550 Cabrio, 2012 Audi Q5
Advise
Hello, I am a member of the W209 forum and considering the purchase of an SL. My budget is around $25K. I would love the same 5.5 liter and 7 speed automatic that I have in my 07 CLK cabriolet but that may necessitate a higher mileage example. My must haves are nav and keyless go.
I would like to hear from the vast knowledge of this forum regarding known trouble areas of certain years and general recommendations. I have not driven an SL yet but hope to as soon as I locate one within a reasonable distance.
I would like to hear from the vast knowledge of this forum regarding known trouble areas of certain years and general recommendations. I have not driven an SL yet but hope to as soon as I locate one within a reasonable distance.
Super Member
Joined: May 2015
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From: North Cali
2005 SL500, 2015 CLS400
I paid 27k for my 05 SL500 with 22k miles about a year ago. I'm pretty sure you can find a decent one within your budget, or close enough. If you want same engine then look for a SL550, those came out a little later than 05, somewhere 07+. As much as i know navi is included in all models, key-lesse go it's an option. Since you own a Mercedes that means you know how maintenance can be expensive on any MB. SL's add the ABC suspension, that requires additional care or preventive maintenance. If you can get a PPI inspection done - it will give a picture of what's coming for maintenance.
Besides that teh engine and tranny are solid, most issues coming from suspension, other sensors and stuff like that. If you're a more DIY guy you can manage the car without many out of pocket expenses.
Regards.
Besides that teh engine and tranny are solid, most issues coming from suspension, other sensors and stuff like that. If you're a more DIY guy you can manage the car without many out of pocket expenses.
Regards.
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Joined: Dec 2009
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NO LONGER ACTIVE
I just traded my 2007 CLK550 cabriolet for a 2011 SL550 last month. I have a thread over on the W209 forum with some contrast/compare info. (So long CLK...)
The R230 came standard with NAV. Although KeylessGO was an option, it's unlikely to find one without. It was part of the P1 package which included KG, heated/vented seats, Airscarf, multicontour seats, and the trunk closer. Most also came with the AMG Sport wheel package which included 19" wheels, smoked tail lights, steering wheel shift paddles, and "M" mode on the transmission.
As for problem spots, you will have the same possibility of timing chain sprocket failure in the MY2007 SL550 as with any early M273 engine. Through MY2007, the 722.9 transmissions are also more trouble prone. There were revisions to ABC in MY2007 and again in MY2009 that (hopefully) improved reliability. MY2009 brought a facelift with an updated front fascia and revised COMAND with built-in Bluetooth handfree, MP3 storage and iPod connection.
The biggest concern over the usual MBZ issues will be with ABC and SBC. If you plan to do your own work, it won't be bad, but paying to have it repaired will be very expensive. Even DIY, some parts can be pricey and you better know what you are doing. I'd look for a car with the lowest mileage that you can afford. The ABC and SBC systems have parts with finite lifespans. The more miles, the more work to be done.
The R230 came standard with NAV. Although KeylessGO was an option, it's unlikely to find one without. It was part of the P1 package which included KG, heated/vented seats, Airscarf, multicontour seats, and the trunk closer. Most also came with the AMG Sport wheel package which included 19" wheels, smoked tail lights, steering wheel shift paddles, and "M" mode on the transmission.
As for problem spots, you will have the same possibility of timing chain sprocket failure in the MY2007 SL550 as with any early M273 engine. Through MY2007, the 722.9 transmissions are also more trouble prone. There were revisions to ABC in MY2007 and again in MY2009 that (hopefully) improved reliability. MY2009 brought a facelift with an updated front fascia and revised COMAND with built-in Bluetooth handfree, MP3 storage and iPod connection.
The biggest concern over the usual MBZ issues will be with ABC and SBC. If you plan to do your own work, it won't be bad, but paying to have it repaired will be very expensive. Even DIY, some parts can be pricey and you better know what you are doing. I'd look for a car with the lowest mileage that you can afford. The ABC and SBC systems have parts with finite lifespans. The more miles, the more work to be done.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 152
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2009 CLK550 convertible, 2012 ,,E550 Cabrio, 2012 Audi Q5
Thank you for the information. I am having second thoughts about the SL with ABC and the maintenance issues I am reading about as I do my research. This was going to be my summer ride as my wife has placed her claim on the 07 CLK 550 . I may look for another 07-09 CLK 550 cabriolet.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2006
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I bought a 2003 SL500 with thirty-something thousand miles a year ago. If I had researched this forum beforehand, I never would have bought it, I would have been scared silly the suspension was going to explode and cost me more than the car to repair.
But I didn't read this forum, I just bought the car after a test drive, not even an inspection (the car came with extensive service records indicating it had been well looked after, and it was a two owner vehicle, so I wasn't totally irresponsible). I knew nothing about ABC so I didn't even get on my hands and knees looking for leaks or checking the car sat level.
Since then I have had many miles of highly enjoyable driving. And other than a few routine service items there have been no problems.
Perhaps my experience is a very lucky outlier, but I suspect not. I think it would be sad to deny yourself the pleasure of owning an R230 because of what you read on the net (folks tend to post on forums only when they have a problem, not when everything is hunky dory, so the info is weighted in that direction). Yes, you should be able to handle $2K/year maintenance (it's a complex vehicle), but other than that - do the due diligence, buy it, and enjoy the car!
But I didn't read this forum, I just bought the car after a test drive, not even an inspection (the car came with extensive service records indicating it had been well looked after, and it was a two owner vehicle, so I wasn't totally irresponsible). I knew nothing about ABC so I didn't even get on my hands and knees looking for leaks or checking the car sat level.
Since then I have had many miles of highly enjoyable driving. And other than a few routine service items there have been no problems.
Perhaps my experience is a very lucky outlier, but I suspect not. I think it would be sad to deny yourself the pleasure of owning an R230 because of what you read on the net (folks tend to post on forums only when they have a problem, not when everything is hunky dory, so the info is weighted in that direction). Yes, you should be able to handle $2K/year maintenance (it's a complex vehicle), but other than that - do the due diligence, buy it, and enjoy the car!
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 53
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SL550
I bought a 2003 SL500 with thirty-something thousand miles a year ago. If I had researched this forum beforehand, I never would have bought it, I would have been scared silly the suspension was going to explode and cost me more than the car to repair.
But I didn't read this forum, I just bought the car after a test drive, not even an inspection (the car came with extensive service records indicating it had been well looked after, and it was a two owner vehicle, so I wasn't totally irresponsible). I knew nothing about ABC so I didn't even get on my hands and knees looking for leaks or checking the car sat level.
Since then I have had many miles of highly enjoyable driving. And other than a few routine service items there have been no problems.
Perhaps my experience is a very lucky outlier, but I suspect not. I think it would be sad to deny yourself the pleasure of owning an R230 because of what you read on the net (folks tend to post on forums only when they have a problem, not when everything is hunky dory, so the info is weighted in that direction). Yes, you should be able to handle $2K/year maintenance (it's a complex vehicle), but other than that - do the due diligence, buy it, and enjoy the car!
But I didn't read this forum, I just bought the car after a test drive, not even an inspection (the car came with extensive service records indicating it had been well looked after, and it was a two owner vehicle, so I wasn't totally irresponsible). I knew nothing about ABC so I didn't even get on my hands and knees looking for leaks or checking the car sat level.
Since then I have had many miles of highly enjoyable driving. And other than a few routine service items there have been no problems.
Perhaps my experience is a very lucky outlier, but I suspect not. I think it would be sad to deny yourself the pleasure of owning an R230 because of what you read on the net (folks tend to post on forums only when they have a problem, not when everything is hunky dory, so the info is weighted in that direction). Yes, you should be able to handle $2K/year maintenance (it's a complex vehicle), but other than that - do the due diligence, buy it, and enjoy the car!
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 152
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2009 CLK550 convertible, 2012 ,,E550 Cabrio, 2012 Audi Q5
I have to admit that I always wanted and SL and now is my time to enjoy one , 67 years old and recently retired. Other than the maintenance concerns, I have some other questions. Is there any room for golf clubs ? How useful is the trunk with the top down? Ride quality for extended rides? I recently purchased a Boxter S and sold it after 6 months due to ride harshness. I live in Maine and our back roads take a beating in the winter. My 07 CLK 550 takes them comfortably. There are not any nearby to test drive, I hope to check out an 07 SL550 next week in Mass.
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Newbie
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I have to admit that I always wanted and SL and now is my time to enjoy one , 67 years old and recently retired. Other than the maintenance concerns, I have some other questions. Is there any room for golf clubs ? How useful is the trunk with the top down? Ride quality for extended rides? I recently purchased a Boxter S and sold it after 6 months due to ride harshness. I live in Maine and our back roads take a beating in the winter. My 07 CLK 550 takes them comfortably. There are not any nearby to test drive, I hope to check out an 07 SL550 next week in Mass.
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MBworld Guru
Joined: Dec 2009
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NO LONGER ACTIVE
The trunk will hold a set of golf clubs. Actually, it was designed to hold two bags and still allow the roof to be lowered. You will need to remove the drivers and place them horizontally across the bag(s).
As for the ride, it will be much better than your CLK550. ABC, for all its potential troubles, does a wonderful job of giving you a comfortable ride with a flat cornering and zero dive/squat. I leave mine in "sport" all the time and it is one of the smoothest riding cars I've owned. There's bit more road noise than I'd like from rough highway pavement, but that may be the tires.
As for the ride, it will be much better than your CLK550. ABC, for all its potential troubles, does a wonderful job of giving you a comfortable ride with a flat cornering and zero dive/squat. I leave mine in "sport" all the time and it is one of the smoothest riding cars I've owned. There's bit more road noise than I'd like from rough highway pavement, but that may be the tires.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 152
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2009 CLK550 convertible, 2012 ,,E550 Cabrio, 2012 Audi Q5
Thanks
Thank you all for your comments. I am getting excited about the search for a low mileage 07. if anyone knows of a Red/ stone 07 for sale please let me know.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 58
Likes: 3
From: South Beach & Texas
SL 600
I have to admit that I always wanted and SL and now is my time to enjoy one , 67 years old and recently retired. Other than the maintenance concerns, I have some other questions. Is there any room for golf clubs ? How useful is the trunk with the top down? Ride quality for extended rides? I recently purchased a Boxter S and sold it after 6 months due to ride harshness. I live in Maine and our back roads take a beating in the winter. My 07 CLK 550 takes them comfortably. There are not any nearby to test drive, I hope to check out an 07 SL550 next week in Mass.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 152
Likes: 18
2009 CLK550 convertible, 2012 ,,E550 Cabrio, 2012 Audi Q5
Bluetooth
Can anyone please tell me if an 07 would have Bluetooth connectivity and a back up camera. Are they available and if so does it require a certain option package
MBworld Guru
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 10,782
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NO LONGER ACTIVE
No USA model R230 has a backup camera. There are aftermarket solutions, but they are expensive. As of MY2009, the COMAND unit has Bluetooth hands-free built in. Prior to that, the car would need the option MHI interface and a Bluetooth puck installed.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 152
Likes: 18
2009 CLK550 convertible, 2012 ,,E550 Cabrio, 2012 Audi Q5
I thank everyone for their advice and encouragement and after several weeks of looking and missing out on 2 low mileage cars I finally took the plunge and purchased a 07 550 ,iridium silver and gray interior with 41K. It was purchased from Porsche of Naples Fl and they were excellent to deal with. I have never owned a silver car so after checking out several color combinations and driving an 06 and 11, I decided a Silver 07 fit my budget. I was particularly interested in the same drivetrain as my 07 CLK550.
The car has complete service records and was fitted with new brakes, tires and oil change by selling dealer. I have an appointment with an independent garage I have used for many years for a ABC fluid flush next week. I know I can do it myself but after many year of wrenching on cars I have retired my wrenches and chosen to just enjoy driving.
I concur with comments made by Rudeney on the W209 site, the drivetrain of the SL does not feel as "raw" as the CLK. I have not had the chance to really drive it yet but that is my initial impression.
My car did not come with a windscreen and my wife is constantly fussing with her hair, so if anyone has one to sell at a reasonable price please PM me.
I am still investigating aftermarket warranties but I cannot wrap my head around the $5-6K price tag.
The car has complete service records and was fitted with new brakes, tires and oil change by selling dealer. I have an appointment with an independent garage I have used for many years for a ABC fluid flush next week. I know I can do it myself but after many year of wrenching on cars I have retired my wrenches and chosen to just enjoy driving.
I concur with comments made by Rudeney on the W209 site, the drivetrain of the SL does not feel as "raw" as the CLK. I have not had the chance to really drive it yet but that is my initial impression.
My car did not come with a windscreen and my wife is constantly fussing with her hair, so if anyone has one to sell at a reasonable price please PM me.
I am still investigating aftermarket warranties but I cannot wrap my head around the $5-6K price tag.
Member
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 104
Likes: 13
2005 SL500
The only advise I could give you is have a Benz man mechanic friend etc check the following:
Noise from ABC pump, means could be worn.
Whether the car sinks if left standing for 3-4 days, leak in the ABC valves.
Engine mounts there are three of them, if slight vibrations.
Roof opening and closing properly.
Get 7 speed box there the best, half the weight of the 5 speed.
Also check the options on the car you might think they come with everything standard but they don't. Which are usually found in the buttons around the gear stick and centre console.
Other than those things to check they are a great machine to drive especially in summer.
Noise from ABC pump, means could be worn.
Whether the car sinks if left standing for 3-4 days, leak in the ABC valves.
Engine mounts there are three of them, if slight vibrations.
Roof opening and closing properly.
Get 7 speed box there the best, half the weight of the 5 speed.
Also check the options on the car you might think they come with everything standard but they don't. Which are usually found in the buttons around the gear stick and centre console.
Other than those things to check they are a great machine to drive especially in summer.
