Hands down one of the most beautiful cars on the road........oddly, even more so now in 2019 !! ......But as they say "fashions fade, style is eternal" .......the R230 SL500 is a standalone in the style & looks department..... it simply will not date, it's timeless :)
You probably dont care but does someone know a way to get back into an instagram account..? I was stupid forgot my account password. I would appreciate any tricks you can give me!
@Caiden Kalel Thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site thru google and I'm trying it out now. I see it takes a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
I've had my 2005 SL55AMG for about 8 years now. I love driving it but you better like it enough to spend lots of money maintaining it. Mine has 145,000 miles on it now and I have replaced the ABC suspension with coil over shocks so no worries anymore with the expensive ABC repairs. A rebuilt transmission , AC system and other misc items. Now the car has been very reliable but I know something will come up. Be prepared to do some maintenance yourself to help the wounds from the dealerships. UA-cam and blogs have been very helpful and provide a savings.
Hey Gary, what about the suspension ? I have heard that they give a lot of problems with leaking oil from the hydraulic shocks system and all the modules and censors. I have wanted one for a long time but, that is what have stopped me from getting one.
I love my SL500. Gorgeous, Fast and comfortable. Three years , no problems - runs as cheaply as my Honda. Not a car for the Dealership addicted. Car has two batteries and the front one always starts the car. The rear one runs all the pumps and alarms and can go bad if left parked for over a week or two. Get a trickle charger, keep it plugged in when in the garage for several days and you will have no grief. My car has the 7 speed transmission which is MUCH nicer than the older 5 speed - quicker and better gas mileage.
I've got a 2009 SL550 tuxedo black w/light beige interior with 13k miles on it; yep 13k miles on it. It has the AMG sport 19" 5 star alloys on it. I'm gonna flush and filter change the ABC system. Bought 2 MB filters from Amazon($35each.....dealer wanted $55) and 20ltrs of Pentosin CHF-11S hydraulic fluid from Amazon; good for about 2 flushes @ 10ltrs per flush. Total per ltr with S&H was $11.45. Dealer wanted $30 per ltr. Same stuff too. The fluid is still clear green but just for my piece of mind I'm DIY'ing it myself. Bought some clear 1/2 inch hose and a 1/2inch barb from home depot for less than $15. Never driven in the rain and is garage kept. Chassis and suspension look showroom new. Gonna also put expel or 3M protective film on the front bumper, hood or bonnet(UK), mirrors, and front windshield. If you're mechanically savvy and have tools these cars are easy to work on like: oil and oil filter change, air filter change(2x), cabin filter change (2x), front & rear brake pads, front & rear rotors, tranny fluid change, diff. fluid change, spark plugs (8x) especially the cylinders closest to the fire wall as the hood/bonnet unlatches to a 90 degree angle relative to the vehicle. Yeah, the ABC system comes with no maintenance schedule from MB so most owners neglect this system by not flushing and filter change as well as buyers who buy used don't know about it until it leaks or the car bottoms out....big money to fix from the dealer.
As a former owner of a 2003 SL500 my advice would be to set aside at least $20-30,000 for the expected future repairs/service costs. I purchased my SL in 2009 with only 35000 miles on the odometer. I kept the car four years and drove it a total of only 12000 miles. My total service bills totaled $16000. By contrast, I now have a ten- year- old Lexus ES350. My total mechanical repair bills for the Lexus total exactly ZERO dollars! Live and learn.
As an owner of a 2005 S65 AMG that I bought back in Sep of 2014 with just 30000 miles on it I can tell you that the main cost with these cars are the services, specially the large service, that particular service cost me $3000, the small service cost me just $1000. Other wear and tear parts were 4 summer tires and front brake rotors and pads that had to be changed due to rust because the car always stood still. The whole thing cost me $3600, (2400 for the rotors and break pads, 1200 for the tires). Out of nowhere something hit my left hydraulic steering line located right under the radiator, that was another $1200, but I had ½ of it paid by the dealer, (it happened the same day I bought the car). Bottom line is that you have to be 1 step ahead everything with these cars, it's called preventive maintenance :) Today with just 39000 miles on it (that's 9000 miles in approx 5 years) I'm not regretting a second why I bought the car! But yeah, the Lexus is cheaper to own for sure :)
bob lacks : sound advice.. I have owned an R230 SL500 since 2008, that’s how much I love these cars, timeless gorgeous good looks (I actually think they look better as they age), amazing to drive... but there is no doubt whatsoever they are very very expensive to run, simple fact !
Respect for showing repair history prices. Most reviewers TALK ABOUT IT you actually SHOW PUBLIC to judge for themselves wether they can afford it or not. I liked that approach
What a great review. Well made video in high quality. A guy who knows what he is talking about, well done. Thank you for bringing this beautiful car to the spotlight again. I still have my SL 500 from 2003 because there was no other car on the market with which I wanted to replace my lovely SL. Currently there are 110'000 km driven without any special defects/repairs. The powerful V8 and the smooth 5-speed automatic transmission feel like the first days. Thanks for the review!
The biggest mistake that I made while owning the SL500 was to not periodically open and close the hardtop. As a result, I had to replace the 11 hydraulic values that control the top. Cost was around $5,000! Fortunately, I had an extended warranty at the time - it cost $4000 for 3 years - and my cost was zero. A good example of not doing the proper maintenance on the car.
Hi pipi kakka, what about the suspension ? I have heard that they give a lot of problems with leaking oil from the hydraulic shocks system and all the modules and censors. I have wanted one for a long time but, that is what have stopped me from getting one.
I have a 2003 SL500 with just 64,000 miles on it. I love driving it, love the way it handles... Last week I was hit with the fuel tank broken baffle problem. Have spent a lot over the past couple of years - brakes, air conditioning, two cats, Vario top problems. Trying to decide if I want to spend another $2800 to have the tank replaced, or just get rid of it.
Anyone waffling about buying one of these...? Buy one...you won't regret it. I've had over 100 cars in my life and this is top 5 most fun cars to drive. Mine is a 2004 SL55 AMG with about $15k in performance parts added in and it is an absolute beast. I wrecked it once already...drove thru a warehouse wall in the local industrial park. My only problem was having to wait a month to get it back... I doubt you can find a better bang for buck car than an SL55 AMG.
Great video! I've just bought one of these R230 SLs here in the UK. I haven't collect it yet but your video has got me more excited about it. I opted to go for the 2008 SL350 rather than the SL500 because the prospect of a repair to the air-suspension (which sounds fairly common) scared me and the SL350 doesn't have this. The 350 I'm getting is the later 272 bhp version so the power isn't too far off the earlier SL500 anyway plus the one I'm getting has nice touches like the Pano roof and heated and cooled seats. The best part is it has only 29,000 miles on the clock but 9 service stamps from Mercedes! As said, I really enjoyed your video...apart from the part when you showed all the bills! LOL!
I have a '99 SL500 and learned that although these cars have depreciated down dramatically, parts and labor have not depreciated and are at the same level as when the cars were new. I'm searching for a 2013 to avoid some of the expensive issues reported in the '03-'12 models.
You'd better believe it. The car is awesome and people hate on you with extreme jealousy and you can smoke them no problem, however if you beat on the car you will be at the shop often. And if you're dumb and you take it to the dealership kiss the car goodbye, as they will tell you it needs 9000 worth of repairs.
They ARE very very very very EXPENSIVE to maintain. 400.00 $ for a crankshaft sensor 500.00 $ for a battery 262.00 $ towing 525.00 $ shop labor Plus taxes My wife spend $ 1,300.00 + after owning a $ 15,000.00 (2003) for 2 weeks...
The best thing I have done was do the ABC delete on my SL55. Sure, it devalues the car... but the money I made from the ABC unit made up for the cost of doing the job... This is a massive job and took me over 3 days to do (work commitment) Upgrading the Navigation unit to one from Seicane + a USB connection to listen to music when I'm not joyriding. By doing this transformed the car into an incredible reliable daily. Oh and my SL makes just over 600bhp, so it's fast too.
I just bought a 2011 SL550 with 50k miles for under 30k. Then, for $2,600 I bought a three year, unlimited miles extended warranty so I'm covered as there is little chance I'll keep the car for over 3 years (I will likely trade for a newer one in a few years). I've owned several high performance cars but this is my first luxury, performance car and I'm IN LOVE WITH IT!
I owned a 2003 SL500. I adored that car. I really want another SL, this time an AMG. But I don't want to have to deal with those repair bills. If only I could find the perfect one. Or if somehow German cars could get engineered and built by the Japanese. That all said, this video was very well done and very informative.
Speaking from experience, you better have a good mechanic that you can trust, because you will need it. Other than that enjoy replacing batteries alternators and keeping the water out from the spot where the tube gets clogged before it destroys the cars computer.
I think I know why Porsche seems to hold their value so much better now. That stack of bills is crazy. I have an 07 Porsche that I've owned for five years that has had zero problems (knock on wood) other than routine maintenance. Nearly 80 thousand miles and still rocking it's original clutch. Now I want a hardtop convertible for the summah and thought I'd go with an SL...
So, I have two R230s and my advice to you guys looking is that the biggest problem areas will be the top/roll bar, PSE pump (locks), and ABC suspension- overall the m113 engine is very dependable, so you likely won't get stranded (unless crank sensor 😂so replace that ahead of time, its cheap and easy), I have an S class w/the same drivetrain and know of people that have done 300k miles on theirs. If you can shop for repairs or DIY you should be fine getting one, oh yeah and they are loads of fun!
chidori z great, see if you can get later years as they don't have ABC, ideally try to find a m1113 v8 (500) and no factory ABC, or converted. Unless you're driving it hard the ABC will be a $$$ to keep up, one of mine has ABC deleted with regular shocks, but you lose ride quality and stiffness in the corners, but that being said it seems like I'm often fixing the one with ABC. Now that being said if you found a good sl55 I would say go for it because usually I'd say no because of abc, but for early R230's it is a moot point because all have ABC
In my country, if you buy one of these cars you are stuck with them, no one wants them, I notice they sit for months on Autotrader and eventually get withdrawn. So its pretty much a long term commitment.
Could not agree more. My 2003 SL55 is one of my all-time favorite cars and I've had a lot of high-end British marques. Also agree, when I sell a car I always deliver it with a full tank of gas. ps: if you've had any experience with ABC fluid boiling out of the reservoir, let me know--I'm stumped.
Best video I've seen on these cars. You covered all of my questions, I like your philosophy on buying used, and I've made up my mind to buy one! THANKS! P.S. What the opening song in your video?
I like the look of this model compared the 97 SL500 even if it’s a classic, both look good I been debating on buying one. I heard mixed things so it’s like gotta be picky I guess pending on history of maintenance, I know 70% of buyers dont really maintain them so it’s hard but def on my wishlist
Manny Garcia great car! Still one of my all time favorites. Prices have bottomed out so as long as you don't put a ton of miles on it, you'll be able get out of it what you paid after you've enjoyed it
I love my sl55 030 2008. It's the best but after warranty and extended warranty. Had to sell it. So many little issue but cost so much to repair. 150 to 175 for labor. Maintenance keep going up year by year and value keep dropping... Real estate retain value if you pay cash. If you take out an mortgage... The bank will make all your appreciation... I spent over 90k during my owner shipment, but had I bought a small apartment with same owner ship time. I would have make a killing at the 2008 crisis.... This is my two cent.
Jolt they depreciated a lot so it's worth buying one now :) If didnt bought my 2007 CL 600 i would have bought a 2008 SL 350 with the Facelift... But i chose the CL because i like the interieur more, TV, Digital dash, nightvision display...
I see you like to treat others the way you would like to be treated. *Big ups on filling up the tank for the new owner. Small things like that go a long way.
Depreciation exaggerates the cost of ownership for perfect condition R230. Much of the cost can be avoided by going to certified independent R230 mechanics and not the dealerships. Just upgrading to a magnetic transparent ABC filter will multiply the lifespan. The SL community has it's techniques.
I had sn opportunity to buy an 03 10k...77k miles an sl 500...But the cost of ownership may just be out of my reach ...Daimlerchrysler taking over Mercedes in that era scares me as well....I love the 95 2002 models and always wanted one even if for a short period...You onviously do well for yourself ..im a working class guy who could only dream if owning something like this ...I may take a shot ...It looks real fun
Love the car and where you are is most beautiful place I've seen . Where is it ? I'm looking for a MB SL , first I was set on a r107 a 380 or 560 , then it was the r 129 . they seem to be such great value and take into consideration , I'm poor . But then I saw your type and they seem to also have such great price , however then I'm most afraid of high repair bills . I only look at low mileage cars , if that makes a difference . Now you are an expert , what sayest you ? Thanks for a great video
Gr8 video. I'm considering buying an '03 or '04 SL500 after giving my daughter my '02 E320. Is there any way I can get a copy of the music u have playing at the intro & other intervals of the video?
You're scaring me with that stack of receipts. I want one, drove one today, but the adage of if you can't afford a new Mercedes, you can't afford a new one, is talking to me. I'm not broke, well above average income, but I'm not rich.
Listen just get what ever Benz you want as long as you take it to the Mercedes-Benz dealership "ONLY"..."FIRST" before you buy the car if it's not coming from the dealership. I learn the hard way but at least I had extra money set to the side for maintenance so I pretty much knew what I was getting myself into, but at the same time my car is always serviced at the dealership and it drives so good I love it I'm addicted to it. 2005 S500 4matic all black and looks brand new til this day. I baby my car and I love when people look at it. When I say it's a 2005 the look on they're face is priceless at times. Always keep them and keep the paint "CLEAN"
@jo camble only a damn FOOL wouldn't take it to a dealer. My Benz is dealer maintained ONLY. Which is why it still looks good and drives good and still have a whole lot of years left. If you don't have the money to spend it in the dealer than you shouldn't be driving it
@jo camble awww seems like you and I have something in common. I also have a place I get OEM parts for cheap also, and still have my service manager/tech put whatever it maybe "on" sometimes at a discounted price too. Asfar as labor goes no warranty which I am cool with that "depending" on what it may be.
Great video . I think you are the guy to answer my question I'm looking for a similar car and for the most part I have been looking at the R129 or like yours . I focus on cars with apr 20k-50k and will not be using it more than 5000k pr year . Which do you recomend ??? Thanks
My uncle bought one for 2500 its recked from the front but it turns on and everything works he bought it for his son he is fixing it and then he will surprise him
Am I the only one that finds it strange the $4000 bill were all the components connected to the serpentine belt? Hmmmmmm. Also, that wasn’t a MB dealer that was an outside shop. I might have run away from this one as it looks like a lemon and the rear wall has creases and tears. I have a 2006 SL500 AMG sport and don’t have half those bills.
Not a car for a guy who only goes to the dealer for service. Get one with a warranty if you can. That said, I bought one and in three years of use it has given no trouble other than the rear battery. Yes, car needs two batteries to power all the hydraulic pumps and alarms. Keep car on a trickle charger in the garage and it is trouble free.
I guess you missed checking the door release levers. You know, those things you pull when inside the car to open the door. They're integrated into the door panel. What are they made of? Cheap ass plastic. Been there, done that. You can fix them with super glue and a couple of nylon washers, or you can replace the entire door panel. We know which fix Mercedes will recommend. Why don't they make those out of metal?
They seem extremely common on that back panel and on the top of the trunk where the convertible folds where the material is the exact same, I wonder if there's a way to soften it back up to be seamless. It is a shame though haha
Sure- but at the end of the day, you're driving a Ford Ranger. You don't have air conditioned seats, hydraulic convertible top, the air-over-hydraulic suspension, auto folding mirrors, or most of the other stuff that can fail on the MB. I'm not knocking Rangers, I have a 8YO Escape. It's reliable, but it's basic transportation.
Bro, that stack of maintenance receipts COULDN'T BE just for THAT particular car right?! You mentioned at the top of the vid, that you've owned several SL's in the past, so I'm hoping like hell that was a combination of receipts for all of them, yeah? OR, a combination of yours and previous owners maintenance receipts, cuz damn! LOL
I am sure that those are the bills just for this particular car. By the time that my SL500 was about 9-10 years old, I was bringing my Mercedes into the repair shop about once a month! And it only had 48000 miles when I sold it.
Just saw your comment. Have not made a video in about a year now. Is there any brands or models you suggest? I’d like to start making more videos again
Similar cars like BMW models. Ones that aren't so over-engineered and have expensive maintenance and repairs Ones that can be daily drivers. We like to DRIVE our luxury cars, not have them in the shop often.
WTF, that service repair record is as thick as a phone book. My 06' Lincoln has zero mechanical repairs since warranty expiration, only maintenance and she has over 130,000 miles on the clock. Now that I'm retired was I thinking of purchasing an 04' to 06' SL as a toy..... second thoughts after watching this.
I think it's that cars like to be used and these are too often second or third cars. Things like the hydraulic suspension on these is expensive to fix and won't like not being used. The electric top on these can also be expensive if it goes wrong, especially on the earlier cars. Routine servicing at the Merc dealer will also likely be more expensive than most other brands. And when you need a part, again it's a Merc part from a Merc dealer. All that said, you'd probably be unlucky if you blew a budget of $1000 a year for maintenance. But if you get by with 500 one year, you need to keep the other 500 in the pot.
I’ve owned a 2005 sl55 for over 10 years,admittedly it’s only done 40k but other than regular maintainable costs it’s cost nothing,don’t believe al, you read,these are serious bargains!
Lovely concept but why does it constantly need big bucks repairs and servicing? These vehicles get cosseted and yet they still need repair after repair. Honda or Toyota for example build a car that runs for hundreds of thousands of miles and needs basic servicing. Okay not a cool looking vehicle like this SL but what are Mercedes doing wrong that their vehicles are not reliable?
Yes it is. I have a 2005 and it is very quite even plus then my Lexus RX 350. It's a sports car highly confortable. Very Very enjoyable to drive. That why i keep it.
even if you sell a car for what you paid, you still lose the sales tax and miscellaneous fees and that assumes you paid cash for the car to begin with. which may be anywhere from 2% to 15% depending on where you live. not insignificant.
Hey all you naysayers what's wrong with his commentary? I own one too their amazing cars! Jealousy? These cars are all this expensive anymore I think you could pick up one for 15,500 I haven't checked yet but the used car market is going through the roof
I love this car. but if he doesn’t quite talking sh!t about dodge. I believe they make a fast nice sport cars and nice trucks that rivals the interior of this car. Like a laramie longhorn truck. just saying
We are in 2021 and I have 2003 SL55 still makes me smile 😊
Hands down one of the most beautiful cars on the road........oddly, even more so now in 2019 !! ......But as they say "fashions fade, style is eternal" .......the R230 SL500 is a standalone in the style & looks department..... it simply will not date, it's timeless :)
You probably dont care but does someone know a way to get back into an instagram account..?
I was stupid forgot my account password. I would appreciate any tricks you can give me!
@Alfredo Aldo Instablaster ;)
@Caiden Kalel Thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site thru google and I'm trying it out now.
I see it takes a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
@Caiden Kalel it worked and I finally got access to my account again. I'm so happy!
Thanks so much you really help me out :D
@Alfredo Aldo Glad I could help xD
I've had my 2005 SL55AMG for about 8 years now. I love driving it but you better like it enough to spend lots of money maintaining it. Mine has 145,000 miles on it now and I have replaced the ABC suspension with coil over shocks so no worries anymore with the expensive ABC repairs. A rebuilt transmission , AC system and other misc items. Now the car has been very reliable but I know something will come up. Be prepared to do some maintenance yourself to help the wounds from the dealerships. UA-cam and blogs have been very helpful and provide a savings.
Hey Gary, what about the suspension ? I have heard that they give a lot of problems with leaking oil from the hydraulic shocks system and all the modules and censors. I have wanted one for a long time but, that is what have stopped me from getting one.
Costly but realible and luxurious with peace of mind. It tells you when to attend it.
I love my SL500. Gorgeous, Fast and comfortable. Three years , no problems - runs as cheaply as my Honda. Not a car for the Dealership addicted. Car has two batteries and the front one always starts the car. The rear one runs all the pumps and alarms and can go bad if left parked for over a week or two. Get a trickle charger, keep it plugged in when in the garage for several days and you will have no grief. My car has the 7 speed transmission which is MUCH nicer than the older 5 speed - quicker and better gas mileage.
My too no bils nothing
yes our cls has a second battery i didnt know about it till my friend a mercedes breaker told me
No battery trickler needed ... these cars just need to be driven and driven hard.
Looking into getting one of these myself. Worked at the dealer 15 years ago and by far my favorite cars. Better late then never!
I've got a 2009 SL550 tuxedo black w/light beige interior with 13k miles on it; yep 13k miles on it. It has the AMG sport 19" 5 star alloys on it. I'm gonna flush and filter change the ABC system. Bought 2 MB filters from Amazon($35each.....dealer wanted $55) and 20ltrs of Pentosin CHF-11S hydraulic fluid from Amazon; good for about 2 flushes @ 10ltrs per flush. Total per ltr with S&H was $11.45. Dealer wanted $30 per ltr. Same stuff too. The fluid is still clear green but just for my piece of mind I'm DIY'ing it myself. Bought some clear 1/2 inch hose and a 1/2inch barb from home depot for less than $15. Never driven in the rain and is garage kept. Chassis and suspension look showroom new. Gonna also put expel or 3M protective film on the front bumper, hood or bonnet(UK), mirrors, and front windshield. If you're mechanically savvy and have tools these cars are easy to work on like: oil and oil filter change, air filter change(2x), cabin filter change (2x), front & rear brake pads, front & rear rotors, tranny fluid change, diff. fluid change, spark plugs (8x) especially the cylinders closest to the fire wall as the hood/bonnet unlatches to a 90 degree angle relative to the vehicle. Yeah, the ABC system comes with no maintenance schedule from MB so most owners neglect this system by not flushing and filter change as well as buyers who buy used don't know about it until it leaks or the car bottoms out....big money to fix from the dealer.
As a former owner of a 2003 SL500 my advice would be to set aside at least $20-30,000 for the expected future repairs/service costs. I purchased my SL in 2009 with only 35000 miles on the odometer. I kept the car four years and drove it a total of only 12000 miles. My total service bills totaled $16000. By contrast, I now have a ten- year- old Lexus ES350. My total mechanical repair bills for the Lexus total exactly ZERO dollars! Live and learn.
As an owner of a 2005 S65 AMG that I bought back in Sep of 2014 with just 30000 miles on it I can tell you that the main cost with these cars are the services, specially the large service, that particular service cost me $3000, the small service cost me just $1000. Other wear and tear parts were 4 summer tires and front brake rotors and pads that had to be changed due to rust because the car always stood still. The whole thing cost me $3600, (2400 for the rotors and break pads, 1200 for the tires).
Out of nowhere something hit my left hydraulic steering line located right under the radiator, that was another $1200, but I had ½ of it paid by the dealer, (it happened the same day I bought the car). Bottom line is that you have to be 1 step ahead everything with these cars, it's called preventive maintenance :)
Today with just 39000 miles on it (that's 9000 miles in approx 5 years) I'm not regretting a second why I bought the car!
But yeah, the Lexus is cheaper to own for sure :)
bob lacks : sound advice.. I have owned an R230 SL500 since 2008, that’s how much I love these cars, timeless gorgeous good looks (I actually think they look better as they age), amazing to drive... but there is no doubt whatsoever they are very very expensive to run, simple fact !
Respect for showing repair history prices. Most reviewers TALK ABOUT IT you actually SHOW PUBLIC to judge for themselves wether they can afford it or not. I liked that approach
What a great review. Well made video in high quality. A guy who knows what he is talking about, well done. Thank you for bringing this beautiful car to the spotlight again. I still have my SL 500 from 2003 because there was no other car on the market with which I wanted to replace my lovely SL. Currently there are 110'000 km driven without any special defects/repairs. The powerful V8 and the smooth 5-speed automatic transmission feel like the first days. Thanks for the review!
The biggest mistake that I made while owning the SL500 was to not periodically open and close the hardtop. As a result, I had to replace the 11 hydraulic values that control the top. Cost was around $5,000! Fortunately, I had an extended warranty at the time - it cost $4000 for 3 years - and my cost was zero. A good example of not doing the proper maintenance on the car.
@@boblacks945 change all fluids yearly
Hi pipi kakka, what about the suspension ? I have heard that they give a lot of problems with leaking oil from the hydraulic shocks system and all the modules and censors. I have wanted one for a long time but, that is what have stopped me from getting one.
fabulous absolutely fabulous background music,you have great taste
Stunning! I have seen very few of this with this particular rims and on a black it looks awesome! It is still one of if not THE dream car!
I have a 2003 SL500 with just 64,000 miles on it. I love driving it, love the way it handles... Last week I was hit with the fuel tank broken baffle problem. Have spent a lot over the past couple of years - brakes, air conditioning, two cats, Vario top problems. Trying to decide if I want to spend another $2800 to have the tank replaced, or just get rid of it.
Doug Fuller non
Anyone waffling about buying one of these...? Buy one...you won't regret it. I've had over 100 cars in my life and this is top 5 most fun cars to drive. Mine is a 2004 SL55 AMG with about $15k in performance parts added in and it is an absolute beast. I wrecked it once already...drove thru a warehouse wall in the local industrial park. My only problem was having to wait a month to get it back... I doubt you can find a better bang for buck car than an SL55 AMG.
rliogghio 100% right! Fantastic cars. 🙏🏼😎
Yeah but maybe non everyone can afford to pay 1k a month in repairs
Great video!
I've just bought one of these R230 SLs here in the UK. I haven't collect it yet but your video has got me more excited about it. I opted to go for the 2008 SL350 rather than the SL500 because the prospect of a repair to the air-suspension (which sounds fairly common) scared me and the SL350 doesn't have this. The 350 I'm getting is the later 272 bhp version so the power isn't too far off the earlier SL500 anyway plus the one I'm getting has nice touches like the Pano roof and heated and cooled seats.
The best part is it has only 29,000 miles on the clock but 9 service stamps from Mercedes!
As said, I really enjoyed your video...apart from the part when you showed all the bills! LOL!
derin111 hi how did your SL350 work out for you?
Wow. Love the lifestyle. Too good to be true. Buy stuff just to unload it before the year is out. Everybody ain't able.
I have a '99 SL500 and learned that although these cars have depreciated down dramatically, parts and labor have not depreciated and are at the same level as when the cars were new. I'm searching for a 2013 to avoid some of the expensive issues reported in the '03-'12 models.
I was all ready to pull the level on getting one, until I saw that stack of bills.
exactly.
money pit
You'd better believe it.
The car is awesome and people hate on you with extreme jealousy and you can smoke them no problem, however if you beat on the car you will be at the shop often. And if you're dumb and you take it to the dealership kiss the car goodbye, as they will tell you it needs 9000 worth of repairs.
I pulled the level and I'm about to whip this shit down to Borgata.
They ARE very very very very EXPENSIVE to maintain.
400.00 $ for a crankshaft sensor
500.00 $ for a battery
262.00 $ towing
525.00 $ shop labor
Plus taxes
My wife spend $ 1,300.00 + after owning a $ 15,000.00 (2003) for 2 weeks...
Beautiful car and beautiful scenery
The best thing I have done was do the ABC delete on my SL55. Sure, it devalues the car... but the money I made from the ABC unit made up for the cost of doing the job... This is a massive job and took me over 3 days to do (work commitment) Upgrading the Navigation unit to one from Seicane + a USB connection to listen to music when I'm not joyriding. By doing this transformed the car into an incredible reliable daily. Oh and my SL makes just over 600bhp, so it's fast too.
Still looking pretty up to date, and the 500 still has a lot of engine for cruising and some twisties!
I just bought a 2011 SL550 with 50k miles for under 30k. Then, for $2,600 I bought a three year, unlimited miles extended warranty so I'm covered as there is little chance I'll keep the car for over 3 years (I will likely trade for a newer one in a few years). I've owned several high performance cars but this is my first luxury, performance car and I'm IN LOVE WITH IT!
who did you get your extended warranty from and how did it go?
I owned a 2003 SL500. I adored that car. I really want another SL, this time an AMG. But I don't want to have to deal with those repair bills. If only I could find the perfect one. Or if somehow German cars could get engineered and built by the Japanese. That all said, this video was very well done and very informative.
A small price for something that makes you feel nice and that's important in life.
"small price" :p
@@Cyba_IT 15к $
Speaking from experience, you better have a good mechanic that you can trust, because you will need it. Other than that enjoy replacing batteries alternators and keeping the water out from the spot where the tube gets clogged before it destroys the cars computer.
I think I know why Porsche seems to hold their value so much better now. That stack of bills is crazy. I have an 07 Porsche that I've owned for five years that has had zero problems (knock on wood) other than routine maintenance. Nearly 80 thousand miles and still rocking it's original clutch. Now I want a hardtop convertible for the summah and thought I'd go with an SL...
So, I have two R230s and my advice to you guys looking is that the biggest problem areas will be the top/roll bar, PSE pump (locks), and ABC suspension- overall the m113 engine is very dependable, so you likely won't get stranded (unless crank sensor 😂so replace that ahead of time, its cheap and easy), I have an S class w/the same drivetrain and know of people that have done 300k miles on theirs. If you can shop for repairs or DIY you should be fine getting one, oh yeah and they are loads of fun!
U own sl500?
chidori z yes I have two, one silver one black (just like the one in the video but with tan interior and has AMG chrome monoblocs
@@bmwrepaircrew8848 im looking for SL500 cause i don’t want AMG
chidori z great, see if you can get later years as they don't have ABC, ideally try to find a m1113 v8 (500) and no factory ABC, or converted. Unless you're driving it hard the ABC will be a $$$ to keep up, one of mine has ABC deleted with regular shocks, but you lose ride quality and stiffness in the corners, but that being said it seems like I'm often fixing the one with ABC. Now that being said if you found a good sl55 I would say go for it because usually I'd say no because of abc, but for early R230's it is a moot point because all have ABC
@@bmwrepaircrew8848 yeah every mechanic says that.. So im rather lookin for regular one Non-Abc
ive owned a 2004 sl 350 for 3 years now,such a great car to drive,and in nice weather its a real head turner.lol get great comments from people
In my country, if you buy one of these cars you are stuck with them, no one wants them, I notice they sit for months on Autotrader and eventually get withdrawn. So its pretty much a long term commitment.
Could not agree more. My 2003 SL55 is one of my all-time favorite cars and I've had a lot of high-end British marques. Also agree, when I sell a car I always deliver it with a full tank of gas. ps: if you've had any experience with ABC fluid boiling out of the reservoir, let me know--I'm stumped.
Beautiful video and well made, I really enjoyed it. Also, I am about to spend some money and get me one of those cars.
Only $15k
Best video I've seen on these cars. You covered all of my questions, I like your philosophy on buying used, and I've made up my mind to buy one! THANKS!
P.S. What the opening song in your video?
I like the look of this model compared the 97 SL500 even if it’s a classic, both look good I been debating on buying one. I heard mixed things so it’s like gotta be picky I guess pending on history of maintenance, I know 70% of buyers dont really maintain them so it’s hard but def on my wishlist
Under your seat, the cover, which you can open downside should normally be the emergency med kit and maybe also the fire-extinguisher. 🙈😂
Great Vid! Ive been on the fence on a SL 55 AMG 35k miles for 25k.
Manny Garcia great car! Still one of my all time favorites. Prices have bottomed out so as long as you don't put a ton of miles on it, you'll be able get out of it what you paid after you've enjoyed it
Jolt not if he pays 25k for it
Thanks for such an enjoyable review... Excellent Job
Great review. One of the best I’ve seen in a while. Subscribed.
Classic in the making!
If you can do your own repairs, the car is much more affordable. Typically, you can do your own work for 10% to 20% of what you would pay the dealer.
It's that way with any vehicle
Love this car
I'm buying mine this year, i'm sooo happy
1amadeo so did you get your car?
how it's now?
The intro song was made with GarageBand and I love it.
Malachi Holtzclaw I need this beat
I love my sl55 030 2008. It's the best but after warranty and extended warranty. Had to sell it. So many little issue but cost so much to repair. 150 to 175 for labor. Maintenance keep going up year by year and value keep dropping...
Real estate retain value if you pay cash. If you take out an mortgage... The bank will make all your appreciation...
I spent over 90k during my owner shipment, but had I bought a small apartment with same owner ship time. I would have make a killing at the 2008 crisis.... This is my two cent.
i like the CL from 2006-2010 very much
NOTORIOUS4545
Always love the roof lines off the CL's
Jolt they depreciated a lot so it's worth buying one now :) If didnt bought my 2007 CL 600 i would have bought a 2008 SL 350 with the Facelift... But i chose the CL because i like the interieur more, TV, Digital dash, nightvision display...
Yea, the CL is an awesome car. I've never owned an SL, but maybe one day I'll get one. It's an iconic MB model.
I see you like to treat others the way you would like to be treated. *Big ups on filling up the tank for the new owner. Small things like that go a long way.
Depreciation exaggerates the cost of ownership for perfect condition R230. Much of the cost can be avoided by going to certified independent R230 mechanics and not the dealerships. Just upgrading to a magnetic transparent ABC filter will multiply the lifespan. The SL community has it's techniques.
Best SL made
I had sn opportunity to buy an 03 10k...77k miles an sl 500...But the cost of ownership may just be out of my reach ...Daimlerchrysler taking over Mercedes in that era scares me as well....I love the 95 2002 models and always wanted one even if for a short period...You onviously do well for yourself ..im a working class guy who could only dream if owning something like this ...I may take a shot ...It looks real fun
Love the car and where you are is most beautiful place I've seen . Where is it ? I'm looking for a MB SL , first I was set on a r107 a 380 or 560 , then it was the r 129 . they seem to be such great value and take into consideration , I'm poor . But then I saw your type and they seem to also have such great price , however then I'm most afraid of high repair bills . I only look at low mileage cars , if that makes a difference .
Now you are an expert , what sayest you ? Thanks for a great video
Gr8 video. I'm considering buying an '03 or '04 SL500 after giving my daughter my '02 E320. Is there any way I can get a copy of the music u have playing at the intro & other intervals of the video?
Your vlogs are now my favorite
You're scaring me with that stack of receipts. I want one, drove one today, but the adage of if you can't afford a new Mercedes, you can't afford a new one, is talking to me. I'm not broke, well above average income, but I'm not rich.
Listen just get what ever Benz you want as long as you take it to the Mercedes-Benz dealership "ONLY"..."FIRST" before you buy the car if it's not coming from the dealership. I learn the hard way but at least I had extra money set to the side for maintenance so I pretty much knew what I was getting myself into, but at the same time my car is always serviced at the dealership and it drives so good I love it I'm addicted to it. 2005 S500 4matic all black and looks brand new til this day. I baby my car and I love when people look at it. When I say it's a 2005 the look on they're face is priceless at times. Always keep them and keep the paint "CLEAN"
@jo camble only a damn FOOL wouldn't take it to a dealer. My Benz is dealer maintained ONLY. Which is why it still looks good and drives good and still have a whole lot of years left. If you don't have the money to spend it in the dealer than you shouldn't be driving it
@jo camble awww seems like you and I have something in common. I also have a place I get OEM parts for cheap also, and still have my service manager/tech put whatever it maybe "on" sometimes at a discounted price too. Asfar as labor goes no warranty which I am cool with that "depending" on what it may be.
Great video . I think you are the guy to answer my question I'm looking for a similar car and for the most part I have been looking at the R129 or like yours . I focus on cars with apr 20k-50k and will not be using it more than 5000k pr year . Which do you recomend ??? Thanks
My uncle bought one for 2500 its recked from the front but it turns on and everything works he bought it for his son he is fixing it and then he will surprise him
Very great video...but my question to you is, did you take this vehicle to Mercedes-Benz "FIRST" to get a pre inspection before you got it?.....
Your car is in great condition. Congrats.
The scary part is when you pulled out those reciepts. Now I'm scared.
Was that a high mileage specimen? That seemed like a lot of major repairs for a car with low miles.
Am I the only one that finds it strange the $4000 bill were all the components connected to the serpentine belt? Hmmmmmm.
Also, that wasn’t a MB dealer that was an outside shop. I might have run away from this one as it looks like a lemon and the rear wall has creases and tears. I have a 2006 SL500 AMG sport and don’t have half those bills.
Cool! nice review. I want SL :) You notice on 9:30 Labor cost a lot yay! Parts are cheap but labor will kill you.
Where was the video shot? Scenery is 😍
Jolt I can't wait to buy this
How can I open the compartments behind the seat when the buttons don't work and the fuses are good?
Thank you
my neighbors mercedes was in the shop 30 times in one year for various junk that kept breaking. proceed with caution.
Not a car for a guy who only goes to the dealer for service. Get one with a warranty if you can. That said, I bought one and in three years of use it has given no trouble other than the rear battery. Yes, car needs two batteries to power all the hydraulic pumps and alarms. Keep car on a trickle charger in the garage and it is trouble free.
I had one sold it after 130,000 miles never had a problem
and joined the rice maker club?
If you buy a used one with under 50k miles how much can you expect to pay maintaining it if it isn't a daily driver
Question, what was the song you used? Great video. Would love to get one of these!
Found the song, Buddha by Kontekst if anyone was wondering.
I see that stack of receipts.... Looks about right 😂😁
I want one! Been asking a few folk about their merc! They all say the same, lovely car, just don't go to merc! £165+ vat per hour!
My favorite wheels
After the first few beats of the soundtrack, I thought it would go into "It's Not Unusual"!
9:33 OMG!!!!
I guess you missed checking the door release levers. You know, those things you pull when inside the car to open the door. They're integrated into the door panel. What are they made of? Cheap ass plastic. Been there, done that. You can fix them with super glue and a couple of nylon washers, or you can replace the entire door panel. We know which fix Mercedes will recommend. Why don't they make those out of metal?
Just checked mine and they feel like they're either aluminum or pot metal. 2005 SL65.
There’s absolutely no comparison between Mercedes and dodge!
nice records, but which mileage? i dont think they came within 10000mls
it's a shame about the two big marks on the rear seat panel.
They seem extremely common on that back panel and on the top of the trunk where the convertible folds where the material is the exact same, I wonder if there's a way to soften it back up to be seamless. It is a shame though haha
What’s the best model year for the sl350 between 2006-9?
receipts scared me away..... I have 16 year old ford ranger with over 200K miles...all I ever had to do was change the fluids.
Very sophisticated cars do require more maintenance.
Sure- but at the end of the day, you're driving a Ford Ranger. You don't have air conditioned seats, hydraulic convertible top, the air-over-hydraulic suspension, auto folding mirrors, or most of the other stuff that can fail on the MB. I'm not knocking Rangers, I have a 8YO Escape. It's reliable, but it's basic transportation.
Well lookie lookie it’s Bend Oregon
Bro, that stack of maintenance receipts COULDN'T BE just for THAT particular car right?! You mentioned at the top of the vid, that you've owned several SL's in the past, so I'm hoping like hell that was a combination of receipts for all of them, yeah? OR, a combination of yours and previous owners maintenance receipts, cuz damn! LOL
I'd put money on the bills being for that particular car.
I am sure that those are the bills just for this particular car. By the time that my SL500 was about 9-10 years old, I was bringing my Mercedes into the repair shop about once a month! And it only had 48000 miles when I sold it.
Good video, but please use a lapel mic. Will be much easier to hear you with less road noise.
Just saw your comment. Have not made a video in about a year now. Is there any brands or models you suggest? I’d like to start making more videos again
Similar cars like BMW models. Ones that aren't so over-engineered and have expensive maintenance and repairs Ones that can be daily drivers. We like to DRIVE our luxury cars, not have them in the shop often.
🔥😍😍🔥 i would do anything to have that car
Sper high quality footage!!!
WTF, that service repair record is as thick as a phone book. My 06' Lincoln has zero mechanical repairs since warranty expiration, only maintenance and she has over 130,000 miles on the clock.
Now that I'm retired was I thinking of purchasing an 04' to 06' SL as a toy..... second thoughts after watching this.
I think it's that cars like to be used and these are too often second or third cars. Things like the hydraulic suspension on these is expensive to fix and won't like not being used. The electric top on these can also be expensive if it goes wrong, especially on the earlier cars. Routine servicing at the Merc dealer will also likely be more expensive than most other brands. And when you need a part, again it's a Merc part from a Merc dealer. All that said, you'd probably be unlucky if you blew a budget of $1000 a year for maintenance. But if you get by with 500 one year, you need to keep the other 500 in the pot.
I’ve owned a 2005 sl55 for over 10 years,admittedly it’s only done 40k but other than regular maintainable costs it’s cost nothing,don’t believe al, you read,these are serious bargains!
I cant understand, why use plastic on slr mclaren?
I have a 2007 S L5 50 I got the phone to work through the interface I do not know how to get it to stream music through my android can anybody help me
Lovely concept but why does it constantly need big bucks repairs and servicing? These vehicles get cosseted and yet they still need repair after repair. Honda or Toyota for example build a car that runs for hundreds of thousands of miles and needs basic servicing. Okay not a cool looking vehicle like this SL but what are Mercedes doing wrong that their vehicles are not reliable?
Qual é o ano deste carro????
Nice video
Cool man to put gas even car is sold
Did you sell it?
7th one?? That Must break down all the tíme
Did you sell the car?
Is the car quite ?
Yes it is. I have a 2005 and it is very quite even plus then my Lexus RX 350. It's a sports car highly confortable. Very Very enjoyable to drive. That why i keep it.
Is that bar behind the driver removable?
World Peace - yes 11:17
even if you sell a car for what you paid, you still lose the sales tax and miscellaneous fees and that assumes you paid cash for the car to begin with. which may be anywhere from 2% to 15% depending on where you live. not insignificant.
No sales tax in Oregon and $77 for 2 years of registration. No smog either so yeah, pretty insignificant
that buick nearly rear-ended you at 12:24
Never noticed that haha
Not really a buyers guide was it !
Hey all you naysayers what's wrong with his commentary? I own one too their amazing cars! Jealousy? These cars are all this expensive anymore I think you could pick up one for 15,500 I haven't checked yet but the used car market is going through the roof
I love this car. but if he doesn’t quite talking sh!t about dodge. I believe they make a fast nice sport cars and nice trucks that rivals the interior of this car. Like a laramie longhorn truck. just saying