SL/R231: How to check if a SL has ABC
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 39
Likes: 2
2015 SL400 and 2004 SL500
i was surprised that the SL400 rode more harshly than my ABC car. I guess I will learn to live with it before I replace tires and struts!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 8,139
Likes: 4,362
From: Corona Del Mar, CA
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
I've said this before in other threads here, but it is my opinion that MBUSA deciding to make ABC optional on the non-AMG R231 SL's is one of the reasons that sales of the car tanked. Add to their decision the fact that R230's came with non-run flat tires and the R231's all had run flats and most dealers ordered them with 20" wheels, which was a poor combination if ride quality was a concern. I'm sure many folks who had R230 models came in and test drove the new R231 models and didn't like the ride quality--not to mention the audio system. They decided to take a new Carrera Cabriolet for a test drive and never looked back. I'll bet this decision was made by some MBUSA bean counter that never even drove ANY SL. Mercedes-Benz develops this absolutely magnificent suspension and it should have been standard on every SL. Oh well, what do I know?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 8,139
Likes: 4,362
From: Corona Del Mar, CA
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2024
Posts: 2,515
Likes: 900
From: DFW
SL63
ABC, in Mercedes speak means Active Body Control. Other manufacturers use the term(ABC) to mean Active Braking(Control) System, also known as ABS. AI intends to eventually integrate all these systems into full vehicle active control.
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Member
Joined: Jun 2021
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R231 SL500
