hello guys,
Was 2003 or early models good reliability?
thanks!
Was 2003 or early models good reliability?
thanks!
Junior Member
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.
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.
MBWorld Fanatic!
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.
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.
Junior Member
Quote:
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 frostyOriginally Posted by IngenereAMG
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.
Quote:
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.
Originally Posted by thetalent
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!

Senior Member
So far, so good, only IC pump & Volt. Reg. so far, but mine is very low miles.
Newbie
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.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Quote:
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.Originally Posted by robusa
hello guys,Was 2003 or early models good reliability?
thanks!
Quote:
Here is a DIY for you https://mbworld.org/forums/sl55-amg-...ement-diy.htmlOriginally Posted by stevedf
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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ExploreMember
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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Quote:
Was 2003 or early models good reliability?
thanks!
Originally Posted by robusa
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.
Super Member
I have a list of what to look for if your interested - then just PM me.