SL55 AMG, SL63 AMG, SL65 AMG (R230) 2002 - 2011 (2003 US for SL55 and 2004 for the SL65)

SL55/63/65/R230 AMG: SL Owners Advice

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Old Mar 20, 2009 | 09:52 PM
  #1  
Lizard's Avatar
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c63 BS; lc500; F-pace SVR; Jaguar P8, c63 p31
SL Owners Advice

My lease on the SLK55 is coming up in about a year and I'm looking at some options. One choice is either a brand new (at that point) AMG SLK or a year two old Sl55 or even Sl65. My concern is maintenance cost on the 55 and 65. What would be something that I can realistically expect to spend? And how reliable are these, say 3 or 4 years in since they were made? Any inputs are greatly appreciated.
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Old Mar 21, 2009 | 10:14 AM
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06 SL65, 08 S550, 08 Range Rover SuperCharged
From my experience, my 06 SL65 is no less reliable than my 08 S550; both require basic service and both have had one warranty repair. The best advice is to acquire a car that is under warranty.

Now if you were asking about the Range Rover, I'd have to say no way - it's absolutely a piece of junk, several warranty repairs and some issues that the dealer still can't fix. Thought I'd throw that in as a public service to fellow MBWorld boarders.
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Old Mar 23, 2009 | 01:29 PM
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Originally Posted by MSL01

Now if you were asking about the Range Rover, I'd have to say no way - it's absolutely a piece of junk, several warranty repairs and some issues that the dealer still can't fix. Thought I'd throw that in as a public service to fellow MBWorld boarders.
I was considering a Range Rover a few months ago until I heard those same complaints expressed by other owners.
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Old Mar 25, 2009 | 03:09 PM
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SL55 AMG, Jaguar XK120, Lincoln Town Car (car for business in NYC), Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford F150
I am new here to MBworld, sorry I do not have much insight on SL's and reliabilty mine is being shipped as we speak.

I do have to agree though, Land Rover's service department is terrible.
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Old Mar 25, 2009 | 03:25 PM
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SL55AMG, Ferrari 348, Ferrari Testarossa, Ferrari F40, Ferrari Mondial t, Ducati 916, Indycar
I would go for the used SL55. It is a great car. Mine has been very reliable, and very cost effective.

Aside from the reliability, if you buy used you will not have to take the depreciation hit that a new car would.
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Old Mar 27, 2009 | 12:23 PM
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2003 SL55, 2006 CLK500, 1998 Vette
I purchased extended warranty on my 03' SL55 and I am glad I did. I have had the car for 8 months now and have had the car in for repair once for 3 different things (the shofter would not short out of park, the auto trunk would not close, and I can't remember what the third was). The total was about $2,200 for repairs. I only had to pay $100 deductible. Gotta love warranty. I would not own this car without warranty. Just my opinion.
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