Robert Eccles

Hi Everyone,

Seeking out some much needed guidance from you knowledgeable folks. I recently purchased an ‘06 SL 500 with some rear damage from Copart. The floor of tr trunk was pushed in and the right side rear fender pushed out slightly so that the trunk can’t close. I took it to a body shop here in TX and they put it on a frame machine and pulled it out some. Bottom line is that they are saying the subframe is damage.

I am on a tight budget, so hoping to do whatever I can myself and buy used body parts where I can.

Do you have any sources for R230 body parts that you recommend ? Can anybody me point me to an exploded diagram of the rear body components.?

I know buying a damaged SL isn’t a great idea, but I wanted to challenge myself and can’t afford a newer one- I paid $3000 for the car, by the way.

Thanks

alk247

Here is 2003-2006 parts catalog. And try to find another body shop which can deal with such issues.

Robert Eccles

Thank you for this, Sir!

alk247

And Robert, just for reference. My coworker just had her Outback rear ended. Looked very minor, everything worked, but after taking it apart, body shop discovered frame damage. Price tag - $6K+.

Robert Eccles

Meow! That’s what I’m afraid of. I’m not looking for a professional grade finish. Once I can get the trunk to close and vario roof to work.

I know the odds are stacked against me. Wish me luck l!

Aussiesuede

The rear subframe is a separate part from the frame and can be had used for a very reasonable price.

Here is a rear subframe up for sale on Ebay : Subframe

Should you go this route, make sure to replace the subframe bushings prior to having the subframe installed.

Robert Eccles

Man, that shows just much more I need to learn about these cars! Thank you Mr. Aussiesuede. I located a gentle man with the same model and color SL500 about an hour from me in Houston. His car was hit from the front but the back looks pristine. I was considering asking him to buy the whole wreck. That eBay unit is a great deal at that price though. You be given me some hope, Sir!

Mattleycrue76

If your car is salvageable (economically) I would highly recommend the "parts car" route. There will likely be endless little pieces needed that will nickel and dime you to death - not a problem if you have a good condition rear end from another car.