SL55/63/65/R230 AMG: How is your early SL55 AMG?
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 2,447
Likes: 14
From: UK
SL55 AMG
How is your early SL55 AMG?
The UK magazine EVO, which is quite highly respected, has just featured "Modern Classics for around £15k/$22k" which is the level early SL55s have now sunk to here.
Under a side bar "£15k Villains", they say this about the car: "The problem for today's buyer is that it's a horribly complicated car, with trick anti-roll suspension (including computer controlled spring platforms) and a space shuttle's worth of electronics. The result is a constant stream of expensive problems and our advice is to steer well clear".
A fair or unfair assessment? My Sept 2002 (MY 2003) SL55 has hardly been a paragon of reliability even though it has covered only 18k miles and has suffered hydraulic leaks, total brake failure and various squeaks and creaks. The areas where hydraulics meet electronics are a predictable minefield.
The car did move the game on when first introduced with much more electronics than before, something like 47 separate control units and it's only a matter of time for us all before something needs replacing - expensive not just in terms of obsolescent parts but the time taken to locate the problem with the rudimentary diagnostics which were standard at the time the car was first designed, starting 1998.
So... the question is, if you have an early SL55, how many miles has it covered and is it proving to be a maintenance nightmare?
[The other villain they speak of is the Aston Martin DB7 which I can imagine is a real horror. At least the SL doesn't rust...]
Under a side bar "£15k Villains", they say this about the car: "The problem for today's buyer is that it's a horribly complicated car, with trick anti-roll suspension (including computer controlled spring platforms) and a space shuttle's worth of electronics. The result is a constant stream of expensive problems and our advice is to steer well clear".
A fair or unfair assessment? My Sept 2002 (MY 2003) SL55 has hardly been a paragon of reliability even though it has covered only 18k miles and has suffered hydraulic leaks, total brake failure and various squeaks and creaks. The areas where hydraulics meet electronics are a predictable minefield.
The car did move the game on when first introduced with much more electronics than before, something like 47 separate control units and it's only a matter of time for us all before something needs replacing - expensive not just in terms of obsolescent parts but the time taken to locate the problem with the rudimentary diagnostics which were standard at the time the car was first designed, starting 1998.
So... the question is, if you have an early SL55, how many miles has it covered and is it proving to be a maintenance nightmare?
[The other villain they speak of is the Aston Martin DB7 which I can imagine is a real horror. At least the SL doesn't rust...]
Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 79
Likes: 1
From: Austin,TX
2003 SL55
SL55 Repairs
I have a 2003 SL55 with 50K miles that I bought a year ago (33K) and have had no issues other than a warning light that came on for a day. After charging the battery by driving it, it has never come back on.
Mine is fully loaded (pano, distronic, Parktronic, keyless go, phone,etc...) and is a beautiful car that runs fantastic!
Mine is fully loaded (pano, distronic, Parktronic, keyless go, phone,etc...) and is a beautiful car that runs fantastic!
Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 94
Likes: 0
2005 SL55 AMG
Hard to believe you are asking if that is a fair assessment when you have had many issues with your own car. The magazing is generally correct. The level of electronics means the car is bond to fail slowly or quickly. That is why I am not hesitating to put miles on my car. I am at around 93K for a 2005 and not stopping soon. I have a feeling I am headed for an expensive trip one of these days, but might as well enjoy the car until then. :^)
In terrms of if it is a good buy, if you can stomach the repair costs then what other hard top convertible with about 500 HP is available anywhere in the same range? Nothing.
Z
In terrms of if it is a good buy, if you can stomach the repair costs then what other hard top convertible with about 500 HP is available anywhere in the same range? Nothing.
Z
Member
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 86
Likes: 0
From: Newport Beach, CA
2003 Sl55 1995 C36
I have an 03' 55 with 50k on it. My dad was the original owner. I have had no major problems except for the ABC recently, and the convertible top flap a few years ago. It has actually been the least "nightmarish" car I have owned. (Probably because I didn't modify it).
Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 185
Likes: 3
From: Norway
SL 55 and a GT 3000 vr4 Here's my car: http://home.online.no/~ludvs/index.cfm
I also agree with zaddick, I have an 2003 sl and would never have another car no matter what!!
Mine driven only 42' km with no problem.
It's the most beautiful cabriolet with the best sounding engine out there, and you live only once. Take the deprecciate hit, repair cost and take good care of it, and you have a dream car that you'll cherish as long as you have it.
I'll bet you would lie awake in the night regretting it if you sold it.
It all comes down to "if you gonna play you have to pay", i'll anyway gonna keep mine forever :-)
Mine driven only 42' km with no problem.
It's the most beautiful cabriolet with the best sounding engine out there, and you live only once. Take the deprecciate hit, repair cost and take good care of it, and you have a dream car that you'll cherish as long as you have it.
I'll bet you would lie awake in the night regretting it if you sold it.
It all comes down to "if you gonna play you have to pay", i'll anyway gonna keep mine forever :-)
Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 216
Likes: 0
My 04 SL55 was purchased 3.5 years ago with 21k miles; I drive the car mainly on the weekends and the occasional roadtrip. I now have 28K miles. Sofar, the only issues I have had were a transmission temp sending unit seal going bad, and when i got the car the COMAND gateway needed replaced. I did install a new supply battery. Other than that...no issues other than regular maintainence and a pothole-bent front rim.
Trending Topics
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 2,447
Likes: 14
From: UK
SL55 AMG
It's good to hear better experiences here than the stories in EVO would suggest. There's no way I would sell mine, so much better to look at than the latest generation SL.
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction
Verdad Gallardo
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping
Verdad Gallardo
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used
Verdad Gallardo
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 252
Likes: 0
From: Jersey
SL55
I can agree somewhat, my car always needs something and the something always cost hundreds of dollars. Purchased my 2003 at 26,000. I believe it was a flip of a coin if you have a well running 2003, 04, or one of the more problematic ones.
Mine currently has 71,000m 2003.
ABC problems around 57,000m,
gas tank baffle around 65,000-
pulley 68000m
PSE pump 47,000
But I must say when everything is working you will love the car.
Mine currently has 71,000m 2003.
ABC problems around 57,000m,
gas tank baffle around 65,000-
pulley 68000m
PSE pump 47,000
But I must say when everything is working you will love the car.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 6,897
Likes: 85
From: Central WI (BFE)
SL55, ML500 & Acura TL
I can agree somewhat, my car always needs something and the something always cost hundreds of dollars. Purchased my 2003 at 26,000. I believe it was a flip of a coin if you have a well running 2003, 04, or one of the more problematic ones.
Mine currently has 71,000m 2003.
ABC problems around 57,000m,
gas tank baffle around 65,000-
pulley 68000m
PSE pump 47,000
But I must say when everything is working you will love the car.
Mine currently has 71,000m 2003.
ABC problems around 57,000m,
gas tank baffle around 65,000-
pulley 68000m
PSE pump 47,000
But I must say when everything is working you will love the car.
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
I've got an 2003 Dec F1 spec, had her from new and she's treated with kid gloves, not even going out in the rain :-) . She's only done 25k miles but I've had the following go wrong.
2x airpump relays (inc one supposed to be modified).
1x airpump. (but after the last relay went another airpump is needed)
1x Alarm sensor
now the bit that really hurts is 3x 19" split rim wheels, they start making a loud clicking noise at the split, and I fully expect the 4th original to go the same way.
1x CD changer.
1x Climate control computer.
If it wasn't for the wheels I would say I would have been happy with the damage so far, AMG weren't interested in helping with the wheels in anyway.
2x airpump relays (inc one supposed to be modified).
1x airpump. (but after the last relay went another airpump is needed)
1x Alarm sensor
now the bit that really hurts is 3x 19" split rim wheels, they start making a loud clicking noise at the split, and I fully expect the 4th original to go the same way.
1x CD changer.
1x Climate control computer.
If it wasn't for the wheels I would say I would have been happy with the damage so far, AMG weren't interested in helping with the wheels in anyway.
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 65
Likes: 0
From: Sweden
SL55 AMG 2003 V-Max
Mine has 180'km on the clock, it's a 2003, I have had it since 2008 and it worked well so far, only normal service.
As I always says, cars are built to be driven, not parked, so you out there use it as often you can.
In the end of last season I got problem with the Left headlight that doesn't lit up at start, I think one of the control units in the engine bay has to be replaced. That will be sorted out April 2nd when it's out of winter storage.
Can't complain on that, a car that is so advanced in all aspects, and far more beautiful then the new R231
As I always says, cars are built to be driven, not parked, so you out there use it as often you can.
In the end of last season I got problem with the Left headlight that doesn't lit up at start, I think one of the control units in the engine bay has to be replaced. That will be sorted out April 2nd when it's out of winter storage.
Can't complain on that, a car that is so advanced in all aspects, and far more beautiful then the new R231
Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 235
Likes: 0
a few cars, few bikes,04 SL55
So far these are what I have replaced
1. AC compressor
2.Starter
3.Radiator Fan
3.Front and rear battery
4.Secondary Air injection ( I think I got fu@#K by the dealership) just a relay would do
5.EIS
6.IC Pump (thanks to forum member here)
7.Trunk flap ( Thanks to Nick forum member here)
8. CD Chnager is fu@#K up too haven't fix it yet
so far from what I can remember but i do enjoy every moment driving it
1. AC compressor
2.Starter
3.Radiator Fan
3.Front and rear battery
4.Secondary Air injection ( I think I got fu@#K by the dealership) just a relay would do
5.EIS
6.IC Pump (thanks to forum member here)
7.Trunk flap ( Thanks to Nick forum member here)
8. CD Chnager is fu@#K up too haven't fix it yet
so far from what I can remember but i do enjoy every moment driving it
Last edited by nsxguy; Feb 14, 2012 at 04:57 PM.
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
SL55 AMG
i had a 2003 sl55
just bought it last year in july
which has very low mile only done 17590 when i pick it up
from that
it just had a keyless go computer replaced
cost $4000usd included labour from the dealer
the dealer provide one year warranty for it.......
so far only this things happen in my car............
just bought it last year in july
which has very low mile only done 17590 when i pick it up
from that
it just had a keyless go computer replaced
cost $4000usd included labour from the dealer
the dealer provide one year warranty for it.......
so far only this things happen in my car............
Newbie
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Mercedes SL55
SL55
I have a 2003 SL55 with 43,000 miles on the clock.
I have had the following problems:
1 - Alarm sensor failed
2 - The apparently all too common "baffle in the fuel tank coming loose" I have not had the tank replaced as it costs around £1500. It sounds like a tin of paint rolling around in the boot. I used to be able to get over this by turning up the music. I cannot do this anymore, however, as:
3 - The CD changer has stopped working.
4 - As I write this reply my SL55 is in the garage having all the suspension joints replaced at a cost of £1000.
It looks like mine has suffered the same problems as many other owners and has cost a few quid BUT.... I love the car and wouldn't change it.
I have had the following problems:
1 - Alarm sensor failed
2 - The apparently all too common "baffle in the fuel tank coming loose" I have not had the tank replaced as it costs around £1500. It sounds like a tin of paint rolling around in the boot. I used to be able to get over this by turning up the music. I cannot do this anymore, however, as:
3 - The CD changer has stopped working.
4 - As I write this reply my SL55 is in the garage having all the suspension joints replaced at a cost of £1000.
It looks like mine has suffered the same problems as many other owners and has cost a few quid BUT.... I love the car and wouldn't change it.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 4,949
Likes: 39
From: Clifton, NJ
96 and 08 911 turbos
I've got an 2003 Dec F1 spec, had her from new and she's treated with kid gloves, not even going out in the rain :-) . She's only done 25k miles but I've had the following go wrong.
2x airpump relays (inc one supposed to be modified).
1x airpump. (but after the last relay went another airpump is needed)
1x Alarm sensor
now the bit that really hurts is 3x 19" split rim wheels, they start making a loud clicking noise at the split, and I fully expect the 4th original to go the same way.
1x CD changer.
1x Climate control computer.
If it wasn't for the wheels I would say I would have been happy with the damage so far, AMG weren't interested in helping with the wheels in anyway.
2x airpump relays (inc one supposed to be modified).
1x airpump. (but after the last relay went another airpump is needed)
1x Alarm sensor
now the bit that really hurts is 3x 19" split rim wheels, they start making a loud clicking noise at the split, and I fully expect the 4th original to go the same way.
1x CD changer.
1x Climate control computer.
If it wasn't for the wheels I would say I would have been happy with the damage so far, AMG weren't interested in helping with the wheels in anyway.
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 571
Likes: 5
From: Sweden
SL55AMG + SL600 + E320 + A180
I have a 2003 with 160.000 km. on it ..... have the whole history from the previous owners --- you could have bought a new Toyota for the money spent on repairs for years back only .... and I pik-up the relay ...... if we talk rational and you just want to get from A to B; then buy the Toyota .... but if it means more in WHAT you get from A to B - no matter the costs - then a SL55AMG is a good choice to throw money into (red. away)
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 459
Likes: 0
SL55 AMG EC Stage 5 Beast / ESS S/C E92 M3
I have a 2003 with 160.000 km. on it ..... have the whole history from the previous owners --- you could have bought a new Toyota for the money spent on repairs for years back only .... and I pik-up the relay ...... if we talk rational and you just want to get from A to B; then buy the Toyota .... but if it means more in WHAT you get from A to B - no matter the costs - then a SL55AMG is a good choice to throw money into (red. away)
I have 2003 getting ready to turn 60,000...
- at least 3 trunk batteries
- I/C pump
- last year (about 5,000 miles ago) ABC pump
- about a month later ABC front lines
My biggest gripe(expense) is the ABC suspension repair cost the rest isn't that bad & I have at least doubled the repair cost in mods now...
I won't be getting rid of mine either & I would do it all over again in a second... no other car like it PERIOD
Member
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 203
Likes: 1
From: S.E. PA
2011 IS350C
Well I think I have most of you beat:
2005 that I purchased with 76K miles on it for $29K. Owned it for just under a year when the Supercharger decided to let go which in turn shot metal shavings down into the engine.
So $10k later I will be picking her up tomorrow with a 40K mile engine in her....
Good thing I put $7K away for my "warranty" so really only 3K out of my pocket??? lol ;-)
Can not wait to drive her again and it will be getting warm again soon!!
2005 that I purchased with 76K miles on it for $29K. Owned it for just under a year when the Supercharger decided to let go which in turn shot metal shavings down into the engine.
So $10k later I will be picking her up tomorrow with a 40K mile engine in her....
Good thing I put $7K away for my "warranty" so really only 3K out of my pocket??? lol ;-)
Can not wait to drive
her again and it will be getting warm again soon!!
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 587
Likes: 12
From: Phoenix AZ
2005 C55 AMG - 2018 340i - 2006 SL55 AMG - Sold
My SL600 has been in the shop quite a few times, but it has been for all the usual stuff AND the aftermarket warranty covered everything.
I've had to do:
ABC repairs
Engine mounts
Trunk latch
Command unit
Heat exchanger pump
Coil packs
High voltage ignition
Gas tank (baffle went out)
If you can find a used SL with these common issues resolved, then it might be a good deal.
I've had to do:
ABC repairs
Engine mounts
Trunk latch
Command unit
Heat exchanger pump
Coil packs
High voltage ignition
Gas tank (baffle went out)
If you can find a used SL with these common issues resolved, then it might be a good deal.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 6,897
Likes: 85
From: Central WI (BFE)
SL55, ML500 & Acura TL
Well I think I have most of you beat:
2005 that I purchased with 76K miles on it for $29K. Owned it for just under a year when the Supercharger decided to let go which in turn shot metal shavings down into the engine.
So $10k later I will be picking her up tomorrow with a 40K mile engine in her....
Good thing I put $7K away for my "warranty" so really only 3K out of my pocket??? lol ;-)
Can not wait to drive her again and it will be getting warm again soon!!
2005 that I purchased with 76K miles on it for $29K. Owned it for just under a year when the Supercharger decided to let go which in turn shot metal shavings down into the engine.
So $10k later I will be picking her up tomorrow with a 40K mile engine in her....
Good thing I put $7K away for my "warranty" so really only 3K out of my pocket??? lol ;-)
Can not wait to drive
her again and it will be getting warm again soon!!Buddy, you have had the worst possible luck of anyone I have ever seen.
Here is hoping your new engine gives you 100k of enjoyable trouble free miles.
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 459
Likes: 0
SL55 AMG EC Stage 5 Beast / ESS S/C E92 M3
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 156
Likes: 1
From: El Dorado Hills, California
2004 SL55 AMG EUROCHARGED. 2002 X5. 1999 SUBURBAN WHIPPLE SUPERCHARGER+MODs,04 M3 EUROCHARED
04 SL55 63000 miles. So far replaced both front and rear batteries, one rear struts, one trunk struts, no complaint.
