SL/R230: How do you take off the side trim where the part sensors sits on a 2003 SL, R230?
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Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 382
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From: Norway
350 SL, R230 - 300 SL, R129 - 1964 Corvette Sting Ray Sport Coupe - Porsche 911 Twin Turbo (sold)
How do you take off the side trim where the part sensors sits on a 2003 SL, R230?
I have seen the diagram on how to use the wedge and pry loose the the trim off of the front bumper but i am afraid of breaking any of the platic clips that is a part of the bumper trim
I have one park sensor that have been replaced and that park sensor is not painted.
If i take off the cover under the radiator or in front of the front wheels will i gain access so can push the trim out?
Is it not a kind of a "hook" on the bumper trim that goes behind the bumper in either the trim toward the front wheel or the center of the bumper?
Last edited by TheSaint; Aug 12, 2018 at 11:37 AM.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 992
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From: Tucson, AZ
'20 X5 M50i; '17 Ram 3500; Golf Cart; Bikes; Scooters
I've replaced one of these sensors myself, but removed the bumper to do it.
I did not remove the trim on the SL, so I can't answer that question. I have removed the trim on a C32 AMG, and they are small 'hooks' that attach. They are fragile.
I think the SL350 has an intercooler pump down here, and you will have a few hoses to work around, but I'll bet you can access the sensor from below.
Once removed from the bumper, the sensor can be unplugged, and swapped out.
Get a small spray can of touch up paint and clear coat, and spray this before replacing it.
Let us know how it goes.
I did not remove the trim on the SL, so I can't answer that question. I have removed the trim on a C32 AMG, and they are small 'hooks' that attach. They are fragile.
I think the SL350 has an intercooler pump down here, and you will have a few hoses to work around, but I'll bet you can access the sensor from below.
Once removed from the bumper, the sensor can be unplugged, and swapped out.
Get a small spray can of touch up paint and clear coat, and spray this before replacing it.
Let us know how it goes.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 271
Likes: 23
From: Kirkland, WA
2003 SL500
I would recommend to remove the entire bumper, if need be. I accidentally broke one of these inserts in the rear bumper by bumping it with my knee, while doing something in the trunk. So I thought that I would remove the insert and glue the peace that broke off. When I tried to pry it out, it just kept crumbling. I glued all the pieces back in place. Mine is also 2003. But it has spent most of its life under the Florida sun, so yours might be in a better shape. But I wouldn't risk it.
