Rambler358

I'm looking to buy a used SL55 - either a 2005 model with 21k miles, or a 2006 with 33.5k miles and about $4k less than the '05.

Are there any differences between the 2005 and 2006 model years? It also looks like both cars are as is, meaning I'd have to get my own warranty. If so, can anyone recommend a decent warranty to purchase for the SL55.

Also, are there any issues I need to be aware of on this car for these model years? Any info/advice appreciated, and thanks in advance.

GFEAR

i'd save the $$ and get the 06 and put the $$ into a warranty of some sort

Rambler358

My preference was leaning towards the '05 model, as it included really nice Asanti wheels, and had the Keyless-Go and Distronic options that the '06 didn't. I guess that's why I was wondering if there were any major changes between the '05 and '06 model years. Also the '06 has about 13k more miles on it than the '05.

GFEAR

conditionis more important than miles, id rather have the one year newer than the miles. is the 05 the silver one thats been floating around with the wheels on it? that the seller says are worth 9k?

Rambler358

The '05 I'm looking at seems to be in better condition than the '06.

I have no idea. Both the '05 and '06 are at different dealers here in Southern CA.

So no one knows if there's been any change in the SL55 model line between '05 and '06?

GFEAR

THE one i was thinkng of was private sale i think. if its better condition with more options, take it!

Rambler358

Yeah - better condition, more options and less miles for about $4k more. Not bad I think.
Here's a pic of the 2005 SL55 I'm looking at:



Though if 2006 offered any major (worthwhile) changes, then I'd have to reconsider it.

GFEAR

who makes those wheels,multi piece or one piece? what size tires and tread left?

it need to be lowered

Rambler358

Asanti 3pc wheels. Brand new tires, but didn't check the size. The tire size looks about the same as stock I think.

roberthechter

The navagation is much improved on the 06, ita a totally different unit than the 05

carcommander

hmmm that's funny my 05 SL55 and 06 SL65 have the same Nav System. the nav system changed in 04. I don't think there is any significant difference between and 05 and 06. I would buy the car I liked the best.

cal1

There are a number of issues to be aware of. A brief list would include ABC suspension. IC pump failure, loose fuel tank baffle, stuck shifter, and drop top issues. The engine and drive train seem to be very robust. The point is that there are lots of complex systems that can and do fail on these cars. If you run a search in the forum on any of the maladies listed, you should be able to find lots of detailed information. All the issues have been discussed in detail.

Don’t let any of the issues mentioned above scare you away from an awesome car. I absolutely love my SL and most everyone on the forum love theirs as well. These cars can be expensive to maintain. A good warranty is the only way to go. The MB factory warranty is probably best, but you may not be able to extend it. I would certainly check. There are some very good aftermarket warranty programs to be had for the SL. A number of members have the Chrysler factory plan. I have heard only good things about it. Below is some information. Michael Case at Zeigler has written a number of warranties for forum members. Here are a couple of links: http://www.chryslerfactoryplans.com/ www.michaelcase.wordpress.com
Good luck

Rambler358

The 05 and 06 Command units are exactly the same. You must be thinking about the 04 unit that's different.

Rambler358

Thank you! Some really good information. I know that things can go bad on the SL's. My 04 SL500 had a computer module go out, that caused wierd things to happen. It was one of the less expensive modules, so repair wasn't too bad.

And yes, I think a good warranty is going to be key here. Thanks for the links. Anyone have any comments on Warranty Direct? But I'll definately check out the Chrysler factory plan.

roberthechter

Thanks for the clarafacation on the nav system, I thought the 06 was the new unit. I see that there is the newest unit out on the 09's

150shot

I'm surprised no one has said this but the 06 will have shifting paddles 05 has buttons.

roberthechter

I KNEW THERE WAS SOMETHING DIFFERENT