SL ADVICE PLEASE
Discussion
I am looking for some advice on purchasing a SL350 or SL500.
I have owned a few modern mercedes but know nothing about the SL circa 2004-2009. I have a budget of up to £15k.
I am after any advice on:
- Models and specifications
- 350 v 500
- Common faults/issues to look out for
- Running costs
- Day to day useability
many thanks
I have owned a few modern mercedes but know nothing about the SL circa 2004-2009. I have a budget of up to £15k.
I am after any advice on:
- Models and specifications
- 350 v 500
- Common faults/issues to look out for
- Running costs
- Day to day useability
many thanks
350s generally should have standard suspension (ABC was optional, but rare) and the 500 has ABC as standard - reading up on this you'll see stories that it can cost up to (or even more) £1k a corner to replace and its about when, not if..
The 3.7 V6 was replaced by the more powerful M272 3.5 V6 - in 2006, however it's well documented that a certain amount had poor quality balancer shaft fitted which, again will fail unless replaced before hand - if not it's an engine out job and ££££s - there's certain engine serial numbers that were effected so check with that.
SBC braking pump can fail - it can apparently be reset a couple of times but if fails a warning will appear and expect a further hefty bill.
The roof can leak water into the boot and that's where the electrical components are so keep an eye on the seals - basically keep them clean.
Speedo dials can fail and the binnacle can be expensive to replace.
The above may be a bit scaremonger but overall the SL is a good car, just expect the odd big bill now and again (it was a £60-70k+ car when new). If you do buy haggle hard as I see the same SL models sitting for sale and they can take a while to shift - guess it's the complexity of the model.
Personally I would buy a late 350 3.7 V6 - so that's a 2005/06 with the later dash: updated cd/nav etc. To limit wallet damage.
You don't want an early 500!!
The 3.7 V6 was replaced by the more powerful M272 3.5 V6 - in 2006, however it's well documented that a certain amount had poor quality balancer shaft fitted which, again will fail unless replaced before hand - if not it's an engine out job and ££££s - there's certain engine serial numbers that were effected so check with that.
SBC braking pump can fail - it can apparently be reset a couple of times but if fails a warning will appear and expect a further hefty bill.
The roof can leak water into the boot and that's where the electrical components are so keep an eye on the seals - basically keep them clean.
Speedo dials can fail and the binnacle can be expensive to replace.
The above may be a bit scaremonger but overall the SL is a good car, just expect the odd big bill now and again (it was a £60-70k+ car when new). If you do buy haggle hard as I see the same SL models sitting for sale and they can take a while to shift - guess it's the complexity of the model.
Personally I would buy a late 350 3.7 V6 - so that's a 2005/06 with the later dash: updated cd/nav etc. To limit wallet damage.
You don't want an early 500!!
Kierkegaard said:
350s generally should have standard suspension (ABC was optional, but rare) and the 500 has ABC as standard - reading up on this you'll see stories that it can cost up to (or even more) £1k a corner to replace and its about when, not if..
The 3.7 V6 was replaced by the more powerful M272 3.5 V6 - in 2006, however it's well documented that a certain amount had poor quality balancer shaft fitted which, again will fail unless replaced before hand - if not it's an engine out job and ££££s - there's certain engine serial numbers that were effected so check with that.
SBC braking pump can fail - it can apparently be reset a couple of times but if fails a warning will appear and expect a further hefty bill.
The roof can leak water into the boot and that's where the electrical components are so keep an eye on the seals - basically keep them clean.
Speedo dials can fail and the binnacle can be expensive to replace.
The above may be a bit scaremonger but overall the SL is a good car, just expect the odd big bill now and again (it was a £60-70k+ car when new). If you do buy haggle hard as I see the same SL models sitting for sale and they can take a while to shift - guess it's the complexity of the model.
Personally I would buy a late 350 3.7 V6 - so that's a 2005/06 with the later dash: updated cd/nav etc. To limit wallet damage.
You don't want an early 500!!
Great post. Thanks !The 3.7 V6 was replaced by the more powerful M272 3.5 V6 - in 2006, however it's well documented that a certain amount had poor quality balancer shaft fitted which, again will fail unless replaced before hand - if not it's an engine out job and ££££s - there's certain engine serial numbers that were effected so check with that.
SBC braking pump can fail - it can apparently be reset a couple of times but if fails a warning will appear and expect a further hefty bill.
The roof can leak water into the boot and that's where the electrical components are so keep an eye on the seals - basically keep them clean.
Speedo dials can fail and the binnacle can be expensive to replace.
The above may be a bit scaremonger but overall the SL is a good car, just expect the odd big bill now and again (it was a £60-70k+ car when new). If you do buy haggle hard as I see the same SL models sitting for sale and they can take a while to shift - guess it's the complexity of the model.
Personally I would buy a late 350 3.7 V6 - so that's a 2005/06 with the later dash: updated cd/nav etc. To limit wallet damage.
You don't want an early 500!!
If any use I have had my SL 500 02 plate for 3 years and it has 71,000 on clock. Five weeks ago it needed new pump that controls central locking/roof and boot for £1100, it was not water damage as boot seems water tight but needed replacing after 14 years. I had heart attack moment of ABC light coming on 3 weeks ago but that was fixed by Mercedes main dealer for £175 as it was leak and required pipe/union and top up of fluid. Report is all well with units and they seem to be originals.
I have found main dealers to be reasonably priced for older cars and they have serviced mine at not much more than local garage prices. Other than above no serious issues and passed 2 MOT's much better than my previous TVR.
Does around 24mpg on run and 14mpg around town. Not my main car but I do around 2 to 3 K pa mostly in summer and for 2 people it is a great car to be in and as comfortable, roomy and easy to drive as my CLS.
My own thoughts are the ABC system is massively superior to standard system, my friend had SL 350 with out ABC, and if you are going for a car like a SL why compromise on bits that "may" go wrong some time, based on that best go for much cheaper less complicated make. I am happy with V8 but would love a V12, sad but the way cars seem to make you.
Based on running a Ferrari I can not see an SL would scare you cost wise.
I have found main dealers to be reasonably priced for older cars and they have serviced mine at not much more than local garage prices. Other than above no serious issues and passed 2 MOT's much better than my previous TVR.
Does around 24mpg on run and 14mpg around town. Not my main car but I do around 2 to 3 K pa mostly in summer and for 2 people it is a great car to be in and as comfortable, roomy and easy to drive as my CLS.
My own thoughts are the ABC system is massively superior to standard system, my friend had SL 350 with out ABC, and if you are going for a car like a SL why compromise on bits that "may" go wrong some time, based on that best go for much cheaper less complicated make. I am happy with V8 but would love a V12, sad but the way cars seem to make you.
Based on running a Ferrari I can not see an SL would scare you cost wise.
As a former owner I have to echo everything everyone else has said, I had to have the central locking pump changed but found a guy who sell refurbished units for £480.00 (if it needs a complete overhaul) as for 350/500 I'd say get an SL55 
it's the one you really want.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...
it's the one you really want.http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...
Hi, 5 months ago I replaced my 320SL with a 2004 500SL. Originally I was considering a 350SL but knew I would always have an "itch" for the V8. Eventually I found a low mileage 500SL. So far the only problem has been a leaking headlight washer unit, replaced under warranty. I've heeded the stories about the ABC system and replaced the fluid, not a service item. The braking system pump is a concern but the noise the V8 is some comfort. It's certainly quick and a lovely drive. SL's were expensive cars to buy and some have suffered from lack of maintenance, a common problem with Mercs which have the capability of covering high mileages without complaint. Good luck in your quest. J C.
All, TVM for the replies and advice.
I have today done a private deal on a 2004 3.7 SL350. I have looked at several (350's and 500's) over the last week or so and this was the best by far. 2 owners, 37,000 (proven genuine) miles. Condition all round was fantastic and the owner was clearly meticulous in his care of the car. The interior is absolutely immaculate (as new) and aside from a few stones chips on the front bumper, the bodywork is superb. I also went for a fairly rare (red) colour which goes well with the cream interior/wood and panoramic roof.
Not really too fussed about the extra grunt of the 500. I am after a "gentleman's GT" car and I think the 350 will probably do the job. Collecting the car tomorrow.
Any advice from anyone on a recommended MB specialist in the Colchester area??
I have today done a private deal on a 2004 3.7 SL350. I have looked at several (350's and 500's) over the last week or so and this was the best by far. 2 owners, 37,000 (proven genuine) miles. Condition all round was fantastic and the owner was clearly meticulous in his care of the car. The interior is absolutely immaculate (as new) and aside from a few stones chips on the front bumper, the bodywork is superb. I also went for a fairly rare (red) colour which goes well with the cream interior/wood and panoramic roof.
Not really too fussed about the extra grunt of the 500. I am after a "gentleman's GT" car and I think the 350 will probably do the job. Collecting the car tomorrow.
Any advice from anyone on a recommended MB specialist in the Colchester area??
jw01 said:
All, TVM for the replies and advice.
I have today done a private deal on a 2004 3.7 SL350. I have looked at several (350's and 500's) over the last week or so and this was the best by far. 2 owners, 37,000 (proven genuine) miles. Condition all round was fantastic and the owner was clearly meticulous in his care of the car. The interior is absolutely immaculate (as new) and aside from a few stones chips on the front bumper, the bodywork is superb. I also went for a fairly rare (red) colour which goes well with the cream interior/wood and panoramic roof.
Not really too fussed about the extra grunt of the 500. I am after a "gentleman's GT" car and I think the 350 will probably do the job. Collecting the car tomorrow.
Any advice from anyone on a recommended MB specialist in the Colchester area??
Good choice, I bought mine in January and so far have had no issues and love it.I have today done a private deal on a 2004 3.7 SL350. I have looked at several (350's and 500's) over the last week or so and this was the best by far. 2 owners, 37,000 (proven genuine) miles. Condition all round was fantastic and the owner was clearly meticulous in his care of the car. The interior is absolutely immaculate (as new) and aside from a few stones chips on the front bumper, the bodywork is superb. I also went for a fairly rare (red) colour which goes well with the cream interior/wood and panoramic roof.
Not really too fussed about the extra grunt of the 500. I am after a "gentleman's GT" car and I think the 350 will probably do the job. Collecting the car tomorrow.
Any advice from anyone on a recommended MB specialist in the Colchester area??
If it's not to far for you Alex Crow in Stowmarket is one of the best indies in this part of the world, comes very highly recommended. You won't find better IMO.
Thanks, yes Alex Crow has been mentioned and only 35 mins from here. The move from 355 spider to SL will be interesting but I am looking forward to sitting back in a bit of luxury whilst taking in the world rather than racing around with my hair on fire!!
I always had a large contingency fund available whilst running the 355 so I am hoping the SL will not provide too many shocks - engine seems bulletproof and only just run in at 37000 miles. Leaving to pick it up shortly!
I always had a large contingency fund available whilst running the 355 so I am hoping the SL will not provide too many shocks - engine seems bulletproof and only just run in at 37000 miles. Leaving to pick it up shortly!
I had a SL350 (2003) for a while and loved it.
Coming from an E500 (2004, with 7 speed) it didn't feel that much slower under 100, certainly not underpowered. Made a lovely noise. Handled really well considering its heft and quite fun to punt along (Good tyres, AMG 18's, Standard not ABC)
However...not without its issues-
-Throttle pedal failed (circa £100 for a good used unit)
-SBC pump failure (manifested as sudden complete brake failure, the redundancy system barely provides enough to move the gearstick) - This was fixed FOC by mercedes stratford, even though it was 12 years old without a full mercedes history.
-Fuel tank baffle loose (there are some interesting fixes available)
-Very occasionally the ignition wouldnt pick up the key. Never left me stranded however (£300 fix)
Overall I'd say do it, they're great to own. Buy on condition not engine. I'd have another, felt really special for the price every journey and the interior had aged well.
Coming from an E500 (2004, with 7 speed) it didn't feel that much slower under 100, certainly not underpowered. Made a lovely noise. Handled really well considering its heft and quite fun to punt along (Good tyres, AMG 18's, Standard not ABC)
However...not without its issues-
-Throttle pedal failed (circa £100 for a good used unit)
-SBC pump failure (manifested as sudden complete brake failure, the redundancy system barely provides enough to move the gearstick) - This was fixed FOC by mercedes stratford, even though it was 12 years old without a full mercedes history.
-Fuel tank baffle loose (there are some interesting fixes available)
-Very occasionally the ignition wouldnt pick up the key. Never left me stranded however (£300 fix)
Overall I'd say do it, they're great to own. Buy on condition not engine. I'd have another, felt really special for the price every journey and the interior had aged well.
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