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

SL/R230: Washer fluid level

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Old Nov 30, 2022 | 05:06 PM
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2022 GLE 450, 2003 SL500
Washer fluid level

Just bought an `03 SL 500. When filling the washer fluid reservoir, I topped it off as car is never in cold weather and not worried about expansion. I noted a lot of the fluid dripped slowly out while the car sat idle in the garage. Is this typical or do I need a new fluid level sensor?
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Old Nov 30, 2022 | 05:39 PM
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Is it leaking from the reservoir, or somewhere else, like headlight washers?

The are 'O'-rings where the two pumps fit into the reservoir, but main leak point is where the neck of the filler tube enters the tank.

To find out where the leak is (if it is in the reservoir) just top it up, and leave it to drain. Where the level ends up is the level where the leak is.

Mine was actually leaking from one of the headlamp washers.
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Old Nov 30, 2022 | 06:06 PM
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Leak is not around the front of the car by the headlights. Does that confine it to the reservoir? Or could the headlight washers still be part of the problem even though the dripping seems to be coming from middle of the chassis by looking on the floor.
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Old Nov 30, 2022 | 06:14 PM
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Also, does the fluid level sensor fit in to this equation as a potential part of the problem?
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Old Nov 30, 2022 | 07:29 PM
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Washer bottle is to rear of front wheel on right hand (driver side in UK) behind the plastic inner arch protector. So likely, from your observation, that it is that that is leaking.

Cant remember how level sensor is fixed, but a possibility.

Only way to find out is to remove inner arch liner and take a look.

A said, wait untill the level settles (leak stops) then you know the location of the leak by the water level.
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Old Nov 30, 2022 | 08:12 PM
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Thank you! Opposite side for the bottle in USA. Leak stopped, so time to look. I'll find it.
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