SL/R230: Best Year for Used R230
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2019
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Springfield, Mo
2000 sl500
Best Year for Used R230
Have owner several Merc over the years (500SL Euro, 500SEL, 300SD, 500SEC). I am shopping for a used R230 (2003 -2006). Little concerned about maintenance, not concerned about power (i.e. 2007 SL550, etc.). Any recommendations for the model year where most bugs were ironed out. Thinking a 2005 might be my best bet. Am retired and do my own maintenance but reconciled to the cost of maintaining the advanced systems (e.g. fly by wire brakes, etc.)s Any comments appreciated.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 8,882
Likes: 1,214
From: In my garage
E55, GLS450, GL63, GLE350
I have an extremely nice SL listed on the marketplace section. The newer ones will not be inherently more reliable. ABC is ABC. Hoses deteriorate over time and need to be changed regardless of model. My SL has a vented engine bay so the engine and hoses stay cooler than the average SL.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 436
Likes: 79
Former R230, W220 and W221 owner
I specifically wanted the 2003/2004 for the Aux port in the glove box. Bought a Aux to Blueooth adapter so i can play music/make calls via BT
Changing the radio and rewiring the car was a no no for me. Did it before and the car never stopped havnig electrical issues. I learned some things on this car you should never mess with- the radio/fiber optics/amp etc was one of them
Changing the radio and rewiring the car was a no no for me. Did it before and the car never stopped havnig electrical issues. I learned some things on this car you should never mess with- the radio/fiber optics/amp etc was one of them
Banned
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,982
Likes: 393
From: Atlanta, unfortunately
'09 S600, (2) R129 300SLs, '03 SL500, '03 SL55
Any car you consider is at least a dozen years old, and by now whatever "bugs" existed have long since been addressed.
The 5-speed automatic transmission has a better reputation for reliability than the 7-speed. For this reason, my preference if shopping for a 500 would be for an '03 car, but I personally would not pass up a deal on something newer.
The 5-speed automatic transmission has a better reputation for reliability than the 7-speed. For this reason, my preference if shopping for a 500 would be for an '03 car, but I personally would not pass up a deal on something newer.
