2003 SL55's

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Jun 10, 2012 | 12:58 PM
  #1  
hello guys,
Was 2003 or early models good reliability?

thanks!
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Jun 10, 2012 | 09:21 PM
  #2  
Don't know about 2003's, but
as original owner of 2004 SL55 purchased in Sept 2003, it has nearly 170,000 miles as of May 2012.

No engine issues although transmission was replaced under initial warranty and replaced struts due to ABS issue. Seat heating unit went out after 100K miles, but have not replaced it as of yet. There have been other non-mechanical issues that I have probably forgotten about over the years, but nothing substantial comes to mind.
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Jun 11, 2012 | 12:09 AM
  #3  
I've owned my '03 since new, and it has been fairly bullet proof.

Other than regular service:

1 set of TPMS
1 IC pump
1 AC compressor
1 shifter

I don't think that is very much trouble in 9 years.
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Jun 11, 2012 | 12:25 AM
  #4  
Quote: I've owned my '03 since new, and it has been fairly bullet proof.

Other than regular service:

1 set of TPMS
1 IC pump
1 AC compressor
1 shifter

I don't think that is very much trouble in 9 years.
How many miles are on yours? Mine has 50k and the a/c isnt frosty
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Jun 11, 2012 | 02:03 AM
  #5  
Quote: as original owner of 2004 SL55 purchased in Sept 2003, it has nearly 170,000 miles as of May 2012.

No engine issues although transmission was replaced under initial warranty and replaced struts due to ABS issue. Seat heating unit went out after 100K miles, but have not replaced it as of yet. There have been other non-mechanical issues that I have probably forgotten about over the years, but nothing substantial comes to mind.

thanks very much! this is very helpful. it seems the SL55's are pretty darn reliable considering all the technology the car has!
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Jun 11, 2012 | 03:57 AM
  #6  
So far, so good, only IC pump & Volt. Reg. so far, but mine is very low miles.
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Jun 17, 2012 | 10:48 AM
  #7  
Orginal owner of a 2003 SL55 now with 60K. Been thru 3 sets of tires(to be expected) 1 shifter (anti theft pin issues) , 1 xenon igniter and a set of ball joints. All issues under warranty except for the shifter. I still love it. Oh and those plastic panels beside the rear glass are now delaminating. Time to replace.
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Jun 17, 2012 | 09:18 PM
  #8  
Quote: hello guys,
Was 2003 or early models good reliability?

thanks!
There are a few common issues of the early r230s. The SC clutches and SC bearings tend to fail. The IC pump tends to fail. It is common for motor mounts and tranny mounts to fail. ball joints and lower control arms tend to wear out on these heavy monsters as well. In addition, many people struggle with ABC suspension issues. You can search any of the issues I listed to get a ton of good information.

Quote: Orginal owner of a 2003 SL55 now with 60K. Been thru 3 sets of tires(to be expected) 1 shifter (anti theft pin issues) , 1 xenon igniter and a set of ball joints. All issues under warranty except for the shifter. I still love it. Oh and those plastic panels beside the rear glass are now delaminating. Time to replace.
Here is a DIY for you https://mbworld.org/forums/sl55-amg-...ement-diy.html
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Jun 19, 2012 | 06:34 PM
  #9  
third sl. Latest one new abc pump at 50K miles. and problem with keyless go not working. and roof interior oil leak
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Jun 20, 2012 | 10:07 PM
  #10  
Quote: hello guys,
Was 2003 or early models good reliability?

thanks!

I would say the main one is ABC system. Others are really minor. Check the history and see what was done on ABC.
Reply 0
Jun 25, 2012 | 12:25 PM
  #11  
I have a list of what to look for if your interested - then just PM me.
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