A Mercedes-Benz R230 SL500 Is The BEST Luxury GT Convertible You Can Buy For CHEAP... BUYER BEWARE!
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- Опубліковано 17 кві 2022
- It took me 5 years and nearly $15K to register and restore my R230 SL500 to near-perfect condition. I share why I think it was totally worth it. I also crash my drone again...
Even though it is expensive to fix when it breaks, I think the Mercedes-Benz R230 SL500 is one of the BEST CAR VALUE BUYS on the market right now in the used, 2 seat, GT market. I share why in this video.
Got my 04 SL500 with AMG trim pkg 6 yrs ago, had 53k miles on it. Just tripped 60k. Titanium w/dk grey int, aftermarket Pioneer entertainment/info big screen touch. MUCH better than original factory. Was my dream car in 04, but not at 100k plus. Repaired damn ABC 2 yrs ago. Pleasure to drive, clocked 0-60 under 5 seconds, comfortable, handles on a rail. At 74, getting hard to get out of. Hate to think of letting it go. PS: had it out, top down last summer, came out of store, two attractive young ladies taking pics with it. They apologized, told them no problem, take as many as they wanted !! AWESOME CAR....
Very nice, congratulations on your ownership! I did my ABC system (all new struts, valve block rebuild, burst line replacement, and accumulators) about 5 years ago. I've tracked my car several times and driven it very hard, and the system is still holding up great without any issues or error messages. The handling performance boost the ABC provides on a track is marvelous.
I bought an 03 SL 55 with 15k miles on it, I had to spend quite a bit to have it sorted out, but this was my dream car since I was in college, It’s been worth every dime.
Nice, congratulations on your ownership. I know the feeling of putting all that money into getting it sorted, but when it's done, I agree with you, it's worth the energy.
Great car! I got a 2003 SL500 in 2008 and have had it ever since. The repairs are expensive, but the car is worth it! One word of advice if you ever have problem with your SL's instrument cluster. If all the gauges and displays in the instrument cluster start to have problems or work intermittently, here's possible fix. Lower and fully extend the steering wheel. Remove the decorative plastic piece above the cluster from the dash. (I broke all my clips when I removed mine, but it fits back fine and stays in place without the clips.) Then remove the two torques bit screws at the top and one at the center bottom. Use a magnet to get the screws in hand so you don't loose them. Then carefully remove the instrument cluster and flip it upside down to rest it on the dashboard so you can remove the wiring harness by releasing the clip. To release the clip, simply press the retainer on the top of the clip, and swig the small locking arms back to release the harness. It will come right out. Then after taking the time to cover everything other than the plug on the wiring harness, spray the plug liberally with CRC Electronics Cleaner. Spray the pins on the instrument cluster as well, but be very careful not to get the CRC cleaner on the front of the instrument cluster. Be careful because CRC Electronics Cleaner is powerful stuff and you don't want it melting or crazing plastic or damaging paint. That said, it's all an easy attempt to fix a nagging problem. My instrument cluster was not working at all, nothing, then I did this and now all the instruments are working and, so far, it has cured the problem. As you know, if you take an SL to a dealer for such a problem, they will go by the error messages and use the parts changing technique to the tune of thousands of dollars, when a $10 can of CRC cleaner will do the trick, right there in your driveway! Tools needed: UA-cam to see how to remove the instrument cluster, the torques bit (maybe 20, not sure), a magnet to get the three screws in hand before you slide the instrument cluster out to avoid the risk of dropping them into never never land in the far reaches of inside the dash, a couple of towels or a roll of paper towels to protect things as you apply the CRC and a can of CRC Electronics Cleaner.
Very interesting. I've never had this happen on my SL, but I did have to replace the LCD screen in my G500 once. The job was actually not very difficult, but the parts are fragile and great care must be taken to ensure nothing breaks during the installation. Thank you for this comment though, if I ever have a problem with the cluster in my SL, I'll refer to it 🙂
I bought an 03 which has similar problems than yours had. I probably could put another six or $7000 into it if I wanted to. I only drive it on weekends but I love it. My wife thinks I’m crazy she said you’ve gotten rid of other cars that didn’t have half the problems this one. But like you say there’s nothing like it. I enjoyed the video.
There really is nothing like it. It's such a great driving car, it actually warrants being worth the high maintenance.
Tell your wife about new car depreciation. To replace your SL you would have to spend $75,000 for anything comparable today. In three years you will lose $40,000. In Depreciation. That is five times what the SL repairs will cost, even at a dealer. BTW in six years my SL500 sells for 30% more than I paid for it.
Love mine but thinking a boxter S might be next
Thanks, I'm with you, this is a beautiful convertible. I have the 55 AMG and I love it to drive every day...
R230 is peak SL. An underrated turn of the century technological tour de force. Every subsequent generation including the new one is decontented and compromised. ABC assessment is spot on and responsible for the depreciation. As you know it's a car that demands knowledge of it's systems much more than most cars. However the R230's are appreciating again. My own 2009 SL is worth $15k more than the $49k purchase price 3 years ago. After I put 10k miles on it. Much of the reason is that R230's are all hardtop [many glass roof] convertibles but the new SL is a cloth roof again. No $8000 cloth top to replace every 4 years at the MB dealer in the SL R230. Plus they're more compact and better handling with modern tires. As a convertible no other car is as refined aerodynamically top down and drivers can feel it in the silence and tranquility at speed.
I'm so pleased with this video, I'm doing you a favor. Here's a popular ingenious German device we use to correct ABC; by replacing the stock filter with a magnetic transparent filter and greatly extend the life of the ABC system. Best installed after a fluid change. Be sure to translate the site of this German company by clicking the "🇺🇸En" link at the top of the webpage. abcteile24.de/en/abc-magnetfilter/
Thank you for the tip! That's the second time I've heard that, so I just purchased an ABC fluid magnetic filter and will install it on my R230 in another video. The hard top is one of my favorite things about this car, for quite a few reasons, including the wind-dynamics in the cabin with the top down. The wind flow is absolute perfection.
The magnetic filter was an excellent suggestion! I've gone ahead and installed one, and made a video of the full installation here: ua-cam.com/video/PdKFVF-Gt2E/v-deo.html
@@rollingstocks already seen it 2 days ago. Fantastic upgrade and video production quality.
@@lawrencefearon6830 Right on, thank you!
Good evening. I did struts too. The surprising thing to me was how comfortable the car is. Finding a nice one took a couple of months, but only wanted AMG, low mileage, clean history, perfect body/interior. Summer's coming, guess I groan getting out of it a little longer! Enjoy that beautiful car. Appreciate you!
The SL is amazingly comfortable for a sporty car when it's in standard mode. It handles incredibly well on the track too in ABC sport mode. The ABC system is a pain, but it's one of the best features of the car, and worth maintaining in my opinion. I still have not driven an AMG model, but a local guy is selling a SL63 AMG and I'm very tempted to go see it. Congratulations on owning such a great car!
@@rollingstocksthe "Little" things on the AMG set it off. Got mine from family of Vietnamese diplomat who passed. The worse thing about driving mine is the idiots in mustangs who pull up beside me and actually think this old man would race them. IDIOTS...best of luck in everything, enjoyed conversing!
I bet. I've seen one with the alcantara pillar posts and headliner - makes it look so much more luxurious - plus, supercharger - who wouldn't want one of those. Even in my base model, kids in their race cars pull up and want to race. Luckily for me, I do AutoX, Hillclimbs, and track racing in my SL, which allows me to satisfy my inner need for speed in a relatively safe way ;-)
If you're lucky enough to find one with the 600 engine, get it. I used to auto cross in the day with a jacked up Abarth Fiat 😂. Loved it. if I had money I spent on cars and bikes (built me customs) I could own an island! Best to you and appreciate you brother.
There's actually an SL600 in the area, same color scheme as mine, for sale for around $20k. But for just $12k more, I could get the supercharged SL63 AMG...
I have aC350 coupe,2012, Mercedes - has all safety features, blind spot etc, navigation.- 350 V^6normal aspiration, sooo powerful. Great ride too. Only 46000 K miles. Nicest car EVER!!!!! Wife hates it because of low seats but best car Mercedes ever made.
That's a very nice car, congratulations on your ownership. Get the wife a boring SUV and keep the Benz for yourself ;-)
As a fellow owner of an 03 SL500 I agree entirely with your thoughts. These are bargain luxury open top motoring. As you point out, don’t forget you’ll be maintaining a 100k car. Buy a good one with full MB specialist maintenance history and simply set aside a few grand repairs fund so if something needs attending to you have the money sitting ready. If you just top up that fund each month you can enjoy this fantastic car with no worries and at a fraction of the overall cost of a new one as there will be zero depreciation 😊
I agree with you - the better maintained the car is when you buy it, the better off you'll be in the long run. It'll still cost you when it breaks, but certainly not even close to as much as a new one!
I bought an SL 500 from a retired Chelsea (London) banker) unused since 2008 15000 miles.Serviced annually. I changed all the oils just as a precaution. 7 speed gearbox.
The best car I have driven.
YOU ARE SOOOOOOO COOOOOLLLLLL !!!!!!!!!! LIKE YOUR FABULOUS CAR !!!!! MERCEDES-BENZ : THE BEST OR NOTHING ! I SEND YOU A FRIENDLY HELLO FROM FRANCE AND FROM A HAPPY SL 500 R230 2002 OWNER.
Hello from Northern California! Congratulations on your ownership, it's a great car :-)
I loved this. Subscribed.
I picked up a Capri blue 03 with the tan interior just like yours in March. 30k miles for 20 grand. I flushed the abc system and replaced the accelerator petal right after purchase as those were 2 things it needed. A few months in at the peak of convertible season here in New England The front piston latch went out on the hardtop, sprayed hydraulic fluid everywhere and ruined the door/ window seals. That was about $1,200 at the Mercedes shop I bring it to. Other than that it’s been flawless. I have 36,000 miles on it now. It will be put away in the winter however no need to drive it on the salty roads!
Mercedes-Benz makes a very nice car,
I like the 12cyl, I have 2 sl600 r129,
And a S600 2004, and I have had abc expansion pipe repair, did the work myself, had hydraulic hose made $110,
Humboldt County is very nice,
Nice, the r129 SL600 is an AWESOME car! S600 is killer too. Great job doing the work yourself! These cars are not the easiest to work on.
Congratulations I have one but in red 2003 I just fixed the ABC 👏🏻 62,000 miles...needs to run
Big tip on the ABC rubber hoses. DIY stuff but you can take the hose off and have a hydraulic hose shop make new M10 lines with compression fittings for a 1/4 of the cost. Cut the old rubber lines off the end fittings and connect the compression fittings to the hardline portion and done. Second replace the orings on the valve block. Third, use a hydraulic seal and rubber conditioner like ATP-205 to restore rubber internal components and o rings.
Thanks for the info! Have you had good success adding the ATP-205 to the hydraulic fluid? I like the idea of this kind of preventative maintenance, but I'm VERY hesitant to put anything in that tank other than Mercedes approved fluids.
The euro Merc forums recommend a rubber/seal conditioner but nothing that changes the viscosity or contains a seal swelling agent. ATP-205 is only a polymer agent. I've used it in power steering rack that have been weeping etc with great results.(It does not fill holes or coagulate to seal stuff) Flush the system the add this diluted with new fluid. Says it take 8 operating hrs to condition the seals. Use in both the ABC and PS revivors to condition the o-ring seals in the tandem pump. Project Farm has a good test on this product shows it restores o ring size and elasticity.
Remember rubber shrinks and gets stiff as it ages. Every important to have an additive to keep the seals soft and elastic or they get brittle and breakoff. When you flush the abc you may see debris from the old rubber. @@rollingstocks
Greatest video!! Awesome!!
24K is big money. But still 1/4 of its price new. Nice car.
Yeah, when I bought the car, I had no idea what I was getting into haha. 24K later, and I would still rather spend that money on this car over driving something less fun.
Nice video man! SL is my realistic dream car I’m planning on getting fairly soon. I’ve watched every video you can imagine🤣 hopefully going to get the facelift model 09-12 SL63
Ha ha, I know what you mean by "realistic" dream car. I have a few "unrealistic" ones myself (Rimac Nevera and AMG ONE being the top two). If you can swing the SL63, I would try to grab one of those. I don't necessarily regret not buying an AMG, but the AMG cars seem to hold a lot more value.
An 550 amx makes more sense then a 12 cylinder . Less maintenance. Resaon 12cyl didn't sell many is very little performance upgrade for a lotbof money. Both initially and every year
Nice!!!!! You’re driving enjoyment is worth it all
It really is. I've owned the car for over 6 years now, and it's still my favorite car to drive, hands down. I've even raced it at several events, and I can say with confidence, it's an amazing machine.
This car is very serious and this video is super well done.🥰👍
Thank you! This is still my favorite car - wanted one since I was in high school and my friend's dad (portfolio manager) got one. I still can't believe you can get this much car for under $15k.
I have this exact car with black rims and I love it. I am in the same boat, paid way less than the repairs over the past 18 months. I figured out how to play my tunes from my phone with the jack in the glove box and it is just as good as a car with a giant payment! Thanks for sharing, I don't feel so bad about all the repairs now.
It's easy to feel bad about paying those high repair bills, but when you get to drive a luxurious $100k car around for a low fraction of the price, it actually feels like it makes a lot of sense. At least that's what I tell myself ;-)
How are you able to play your tunes using your iPhone…that part is driving me crazy lol
@@rayredmond8205 you need a cable that pkugs into your ohone and has a 3.5 jack on the other end. Open the glove box and look to the left side inside there to find the plug in. Set your radio to aux and then you're all set. You can control the volume on the wheel, but everything else is manual on your phone. I hope this helps!
@@jaydamaher8015 thanks 🙏
CJ I have a SL 500 R129 model paid $ 25,000 For years back in a 5 year period I put $ 30,000 into the car replacing and repairing part new paint new rims expensive tires endless number of things I repaired. The car looks and runs great and I am never going to sell it . Your not alone I have put a lot of $$ into my SL 500 also
Ha ha, I KNOW we're not the only people who have put 5 digits into our SL cars! We could probably populate a small country!
I have the same car and have fixed all the typical problems. You definitely can’t afford to use a dealer. Fun but you need to be a “do it yourself” mechanic
i have a SL 55 for ten years now and i don't have an urge to drive another car..
Interesting and informative 🇯🇲
I had a blue r230 SL55 AMG. It is a dream car!!
Love the AMG model. Also love blue cars. I bet she was a beauty.
You crack me up, you look like a total surfer bro, but you drive an SL and listen to Gregorian monk chants. Well done video!!
Ha ha thank you. Rock on!
great help thanks!
I'm glad it helped! Did you get an SL? Or did my video scare you out of it LOL.
@@rollingstocks haha I got a 2006 SL500. Your vids are a big help with common problems I’m preparing to run into!
Heck yeah, congratulations on your SL! I don't even have to ask if you like it because I already know you do - and the 06 models should have better ABC components than the earlier models like my 04. There will be problems, especially if it's not garaged, but they're all fixable. The reason I make these UA-cam videos is to help other SL owners solve the problems on their own. It makes for a much better owning experience 🙂
just for those thinking of coil overs. you will still have to drop both subframes to add sway bars. better to just repl all the abc hoses, accumulators and it will be good for 10 years. i got my 03 for 1200usd and went thru everything
I agree with this. I rebuilt many components of my ABC system when I first got my SL, and it's been over 5 years since then, and no problems since. I've even tracked my SL on multiple courses, and I can say with confidence that the ABC provides a handling performance that could never be matched by traditional coil overs.
Yeah, I do as much work as I can myself. The few things that I'm not able to do (like ABC struts) are NOT cheap to get done!
thanks for sharing
I like seeing these R230 cars on the road, so hopefully this video dispels some of the fears around owning one.
yes, the seals in the rams for the top go bad but they are easy to replace yourself. there are videos on youtube to guide. the motor mount and tranny mount last a few years so get used to them being replaced. I have a 09 SL63 and love it too
SL63 is a nice machine. Congratulations on your ownership! My mounts are still going strong, and it's been about 4 years. I suspect that your twin turbskies may have something to do with yours wearing out every few years 😛
Nice Video, I got a 2006 W215 CL500. A lot of the issues that you had with your R230 I have the same with my W215. Front right ABC suspension is sagging. probably need the valve blocks rebuilt. I noticed when you first got the car the work was done by a mechanic in Southern Cal Orange county. I am in that area can you recommend the independent Mercedes mechanic you used for your ABC work?
Yeah, my favorite German auto mechanic down there was OC German Car Service at 530 Via Pico Plaza, Unit A. He was the one who was finally able to completely repair my ABC system to fully-functioning condition.
I have the exact same care. 04, black with the tan interior. It runs like a jem, but i had to change the ABC to a coil over. I didnt want to chat it but i hated the issues. I love this car and yes it an Ultimate Grand Touring car. Love it, but they are issues
Nice, BEST color combo ;-)
I used to live in Humboldt haha I just moved to Miami and am thinking about buying one of these! Super funny I was like this looks like eureka haha
Nice. My wife and I were actually planning on moving from Eureka to Sainte Augustine. We never quite made it there. The SL was great on those Humboldt highways. Fun car for Miami too. Good luck with your search 🙂
I bought an ‘07 SL55 in 2018. Paid more than you (AMG tax), but agree with you fully. It’s an awesome car to take on long drives. I’ve had to replace the steering pump, a/c compressor, and will need to replace the supercharger pulley soon… so running costs are a little higher than my Subaru, but then I take it for a cruise and all is forgiven. :-)
Nice! I've been lusting after the SL55 AMG ever since I got my base model SL500. All the repairs you mentioned pretty much come standard with the car. I think the AMG is going to be a good car for a long term collection. Values of R230 cars are already going up (I've been watching the auctions on Bring a Trailer). Would love to feel a full pull with those superchargers going!
I have a 2009 year. I put a bit of cash in repairs which were basically things that would go wrong with any car after a few years. I am second owner, bout with 28,000 miles on it 7 yrs ago, it basically sat in a garage most of the time but these car have to be driven hard at times, they can take it. I take it out occasionally on an empty open highway run it up to 100 plus to get that crazy man feeling, just for a few minutes and to get the oils flowing in her vains 😊🙏
This guys a frickin beast
Thank you RAWR.
Beautiful car!
She's got the looks to kill, and matching maintenance bills.
I have a 09 and it’s a fun beautiful car. I put a bit of cash into it but don’t think I will ever sell it…
Nice, the later models are supposed to be a lot more sturdy than the earlier ones. In my opinion, these cars are worth the repair nightmares if they are used and appreciated frequently enough. I still drive mine almost every day.
just bought the 2003 sl500. 53k orig miles car is like new,ill be watching out for the problems and maintenace u spoke of. thanks
Mine had about 70k on it when I bought mine, and it still felt pretty good, so yours probably feels almost new! I think if you keep it maintained well, you shouldn't have any huge surprises, especially if you are prepared to deal with the ABC when it needs to be serviced.
looking at a 2003 SL500 w 47k. still on the fence
Loved your video, I've been looking to buy one of these. But here in Brazil they are very expensive still because not many have been imported. Here they cost something close to U$55k
Wow, no kidding!? There definitely could be an import play here if that's the case. Why aren't more people importing them?
My wife's from Brazil. We visit often. I see more 107 560 sl then 230 550sl. The hardtop would be safer. Infact sister in law has a bullet proof suv. I understand that it cost a lot to import a used car to Brazil?
awesome lux sport car, definetly get one quickly to capture the WoW factor. pls give advice on the best model year/made for SL500. thanks, dan too
My favorite years of the SL500 are 2004-2008. The 2003 model seem to have typical first year issues, and in 2009 they changed the front.
R230 is my favorite but my biggest problem was the ABC but I’m looking to convert it to coilovers
That's certainly an option. I am aware of a few people that have done the conversion, and they all seem to be pretty happy with the results. Tavarish did that on his SL55, you can check out how he did it on his video here: ua-cam.com/video/KWhBGvfcy6g/v-deo.html
The ABC system is a $10,000/year nightmare suspension. Why MB ever put it in a sports car, who knows. I ripped mine out and did coil overs immediately upon purchase. Love the coil over suspension. 10,000 worry free miles ago. No more ABC warning bing every time I drive over a cigarette butt.
I had a 2004 SL500 with the glass roof. Loved the car. However, if you do not do your own repairs and maintenance, it can get very expensive. By maintenance, I mean doing your own transmission fluid change, spark plugs, brakes (which require a scan tool to deactivate the SBC/SBS for pad changes), brake fluid changes (again, a Mercedes specific scan tool to actuate the brake system), oil change, and ABC fluid flush/change. Repairs? You name it -- ABC component replacement, transmission conductor plate replacement, suspension bushings, gas tank baffle, etc. Remember, many of these cars are approaching 20 years old. They were incredibly technologically advanced for their time. And while the ABC can be a nightmare, it made handling a dream -- no sway bars for turns, no nose dive on braking, no lift on acceleration. The SL500 was the entry level SL, yet MSRP would easily hit $100,000 (2004 dollars) with the right options. Crazy, but the optional feature that I can never come back from is the wooden steering wheel -- I couldn't imagine having an SL without one.
100% agreed. The maintenance is real, but the handling of the ABC is amazing. You can almost feel it working to keep you stable as you corner. And that wood steering wheel - definitely a MUST for me too. Feels SO good in the hands.
Love my 2005 SL 55 AMG -550 horses
Nice! I would love to get a SL55 AMG but I've already put so much work into my SL500 that I can't handle the thought of having to re-fix everything I've already fixed.
Love my 2006 and replaced the ABC with coil overs. Arnott will buy your old shocks.
It seems like a lot of people have had good success converting their ABC to coil overs. Did you use a kit or fab the whole job yourself?
I have a 03 sl 500. Id say get a sl550 not much more . Get an extra 80 horsepower. And a few issues with abc and velaro roof are sorted out. When abc suspension breaks just convert to coilover suspension
I've considered getting a later model 06 or 07 SL55. I just have so much work into mine, I finally trust it, and the 5.0L M119 engine has PLENTY of power for 99.9% of my needs. I've looked into the coilover conversion, but it looks like a VERY difficult job, plus, I really like the ABC system. I live in an area with a lot of steep driveways and bad roads, and the ability to lift the car, and soften/stiffen the suspension is a MUST for me. I've replaced all 4 struts, both accumulators, have had the valve block re-built, and I replace the fluid every year - no issues with the system, even on the track!
I would dump that ABC as soon as i got the title to one of these. I had an 05 and it was a night mare. I now have a great mechanic that works out of his home. I am going to try the R230 again.
I couldn't afford one of these when they came out, but I can imagine that dealing with the ABC problems of my $100k car would have felt like a nightmare. 20 years later, with the ABC problems so well known and documented, and with Arnott and other suppliers, it might be worth giving it a go again knowing that there are solutions, and they aren't very difficult (albeit, costly) to implement.
Wish I could find a good independent mechanic
People should post name and number of any good independent mechanic or shop
The guy with the parts is in Ohio. Dayton I think
@@MegaRugby2 what state?
Amazing cars, completely timeless shape. And you're absolutely right... MB made so many of these cars and that keeps the prices low. R129 is also a great bargain. It's a masterpiece of a car. Future classics for sure and they will raise in value. Maybe not to air cooled Porsche 911 levels but to solid 30K I'm sure. Cheers, loved the video.
I agree, R129 is also a fantastic car. Great for someone that doesn't want to deal with the ABC system. They did make a lot of them, but they also get totaled out easily right now with the values so low. I do think as supply decreases, and more people hold on to the existing supply, the values could possibly go up. I wouldn't bet the farm on it though, haha.
good video !!! but I highly recommend you do some of the maintenance yourself. at least more than 1/2 of your bills are easy DIY stuff.
Oh believe me, if I trusted myself with this kind of high tech, I would. I dream of having the space, tools, and skills to be able to do these things myself someday!
Is this the SL500 with the 7G-Tronic or with the 5 Speed Automatic?
This one is a 2004, which was the first year they put the 7 speed automatic in it. I really like this transmission - rowing through all 7 tiptronic gears feels so good. Sometimes I'll keep it in 4th or 5th on the highway and punch it just to feel the torque.
The dealer that sold you that car knew about the abc problem and the old motor mounts. The abc did not damage them. The old accumulators probably damaged the first abc hose .
Very likely the person I bought the car from knew, and didn't tell me - which is why I got the car for like $9500. The good news is, now that all of those expensive components have been replaced, I haven't had a single problem with the ABC system in YEARS, and I drive and even race my SL HARD sometimes.
I just got my 2011 in November, had an R129 for almost 10 years as well, that was a great car too, just had some annoying problems like the stupid hardtop and the headlights sucked, the R230 is much better, best car ever made really, we both agree.
Agreed. The R129 was a great model, for SURE, but the R230 was such a masterful refinement of that.
@@rollingstocks Yeah sadly, the R230 was IT, it can never be bettered. And the 2009-11 refresh years are the best. The R129 had the worst headlights, the parking lamps would fall off after time because they weren't one piece.
I got the same thing you got except for it's not a convertible. I was just wondering how much it cost you to have the steering wheel replaced and how much you bought the string wheel for on eBay. The main thing is did you put it on yourself or pay somebody to do it and how much
I bought the steering wheel used from a parts company. I replaced it myself with some very basic tools - it's quite easy. On another note; you have an SL that's not a convertible? I wasn't aware there was such a thing, other than the AMG black series.
@@rollingstocks I want to the name of the parts company you bought the steering wheel at and how much was it? And you say that it was easy to do yourself. I'm going to have to do it myself and buy a steering wheel.? So tell me how much and did it come with an airbag upon purchase? Thanks for the reply . From a 2002 CL500 owner. 😎
@@kevinbreece5627 I just looked and it appears I purchased from a parts company on eBay (www.ebay.com/str/bossluxuryparts). I paid $180 for it, and it did not come with the airbag. The original airbag fit and looks perfect. I believe I used a UA-cam video to learn how. I'm not sure if this was it, but here's one that came up in my search: ua-cam.com/video/7n37L44hOHg/v-deo.html
I own a 2003 black with grey interipr. Its been a money pit. Like a jealous mistress takes all your money and all your time. Great caR when it runs right.
Yep, they'll do that do you. Mine is down with a leaking PSE pump right now. I know once it's fixed though, I should have at least a few good months before something else breaks 😂
This is a great video. I bought the Same year model 2 years ago from a comrade that moved out of the country. He bought it in 2014 and only had put a few thousand miles on it in 6 years so he sold it to me at a 3rd of what he'd paid for it. But it was in his garage and hadn't been driven in about 2 years so it wasn't in running condition and the first kicker was a defective interlock in the gear shifter that won't let you put car in gear, this is a common problem. But I also ended up doing almost all the same maintenance you had done. 2 front struts. My shop warrants their work for 3 years so they require factory oem parts at about $ 1400 each. Think you got a better deal on yours. Also motor mounts. And I had the ABC system flush for $830 . The Europeans recommend doing that like every 2 or 3 years or 20,000 miles. I've only put 1000 miles on mine ad it only goes out on nice weekends. I have found a bunch of DIY info from other owners on UA-cam, so if I hear back from you I can Pass on some info.
Congrats on your ownership! Ah yes, the infamous gear selector flaw - I haven't had to do that one on mine, but I know about it, and I am EXTRA careful EVERY time I use the gear selector.
My girlfriend also likes when I switch to level 2. 😄😄
Having driven that highway hundreds of times, I recognize where you are located and you probably have the only g-wagen in the county lol
No, there's a white one that rolls though town sometimes too, he he!
Just bought one with amg package and shot suspension for $2000. I think i'm doing full coil over swap. I'm going to bring it back to life car was definitely neglected.
Nice score! Sounds like a rad project, I'd like to know how it turns out 🙂
@@rollingstocks No jk so far so good. Engine running smooth now . C55 amg motor swap otw.
@@Mlive722 dude, that would be cool. Are you planning on making a video of it? I would watch that FOR SURE.
@@rollingstocks I wasn't but now I will I'll document the whole process . Maybe help other ppl with there swaps
@@Mlive722 Please do, would love to see it!
I have a 2011 SL550, which I've owned for 10 years and it has 82,xxx miles on it. I'm carefully looking at your invoice from the Tech repair shop in San Clemente. It's not unusual to have a motor mount fail. I did on one side as well, so I'm replacing both. Cost was $55 total for new mounts (each side $28) from a supplier off Ebay out of Mississippi. However, to install them both, I have a local repair shop quoting $700 for labor. I think I can do better. We shall see. I see you paid $480 for one side. Pricey.
Also, my power steering pump is failing and I'm ordering a remanufactured one from China for $420, again off Ebay. The local repair shop says Ebay is the best place to get quality parts for these cars at the best prices. Estimated labor to replace power steering pump is $200, which isn't bad.
The one largest expense I've had on this car in 10 years was the trunk latch. It failed twice and wouldn't seal the trunk. Hence you couldn't put the top down. Cost for the latch was $385 and about $300 in labor each time. I paid way too much - once to the MB dealership and once to a local MB specialty shop. Thereafter, It broke again. Found a kid at Auto Zone that knew what to do - better than a local shop tech - fixed it right away - just adjusting it properly and making a few tweeks. I tipped him $40. I've had no problems since and this has been recent., as of August, 2022.
10 years ago I purchased a lifetime alignment from Firestone for $85. They have certainly lost money on me. I get all four wheels aligned every six months. They never complain!
Routine maintenance has not been overly expensive and I don't take it to the dealership for anything if I don't have too. This car is great on road trips. Comfortable, powerful, heavy. I keep it in tip top condition.
Thank you for sharing. The repairs you've done over the last 10 years don't sound bad at all. I'm wondering if the 2011-up SLs have lower long term maintenance costs.
With rear wheels wider then front isn't rotation and alignment a problem?
Not at all, as long as you rotate the tires from side to side, NOT front to back! Alignment is a breeze. I bought a $120 lifetime package from Firestone. They are probably regretting that now. I've had the front and rear end aligned at least twice a year in the 10 years I've owned the vehicle. I just had this service performed in the last 30 days.@@MegaRugby2
Owned 3 SL500s: 2003, 2004, 2005. All had under 70k miles, all had top issues. NEVER I repeat NEVER buy these vehicles unless you put aside 4-5k for the top.
That's some serious bad luck. I've had my 2004 for over 5 years now, and I put my top down and back up almost every day without issue. The only problem I've ever had was the front lock cylinder seal leak, which was moderately easy to fix. I did buy my SL at just a hair over 70k miles, so maybe the other parts had already blown!
Anyone use an additive that swells Seals
Haha never thought I’d see someone who loves the R230 SL500 more than me 😂
All the common issues are now very well known….many of the expensive repairs are now totally unnecessary as there are clever mechanics out there who’ve discovered ways to remedy the camp fire “horror story repairs of old” at a fraction of the cost (check out car wizard on UA-cam & others like him).
These cars are nowhere near as scary as people think & this fact is slowly filtering through….
On pure design & driving experience alone, these elegant timeless beauties will only go one way in price as less & less are seen on the road !
I live in a town where Lambos & Porsche are on every street, I own one of only 3 R230 SL500’s in town …I’ve actually had people come up to me to ask if this is a new Mercedes !
You don’t want to be shy if you own one, it gets a lot of looks.
Why ? Because all modern cars look the same.
I’ve owned my SL500 since 2008… in 2012’ish I almost chopped it in for … yep.. a Lambo !! Best decision I ever made …. A Lambo… what a tool I’d look like driving about in one of those right now 😂
Good video, love your enthusiasm 😂
You've really nailed it here, on all points. I have a few cars that are nicer than my SL, but "Nirvana" (my SL's name) is still my favorite out of the bunch. I don't think I'll ever sell it. I've often considered replacing it with a Gallardo or a California, but even without taking the price into account, the SL actually offers greater utility and value IMHO.
@@rollingstocks my 09 SL 550 am just getting it restored a bit and continue driving it…I have 104,000 miles on it and it’s still fun and smooth as ever. Long drives are awesome, I am going to buy a Lambo but certainly not getting rid of my SL550!
@@rayredmond8205 Nice, a lambo and an SL are a sweet pair 🙂
$3000 a year in maintenance to drive the car - You said you put about 14k miles per year -
20 cents a mile it costs you in maintenance, registration, oil changes, tires.
FWIW go buy a new benz and drive it 14k miles a year for 5 years - then calculate the depreciation... it is WAY MORE than .20 cents a mile... it's probably closer to $2/mile.
200k to 50k in 5 years is 150k 70k miles - just over TWO DOLLARS A MILE~
Yep, that one of the reasons I like buying luxury cars used - the maintenance headache is very real, but the value of car per dollar is tremendous.
Great video mate. I'm looking for my R230 and I'm into the black colour right now, is it the "obsidian metallic" or just the solid black, if you know?
It really seems another car after the wash 😂
Cheers from Italy
Thank you 🙂My R230 is the obsidian color - it has some slight bluish sparkle/metallic flake, but it looks black in most lighting. When it's dirty, people hardly notice it, but when it's freshly washed, it turns heads. Hopefully you find a good SL to enjoy!
These cars start at around $30,000 in Australia
No kidding! Is there perhaps an opportunity to import some for resell? They are VERY plentiful here in the US, and can still be picked up for about $15k.
@@rollingstocks Well you could try. I did have a look at doing this before and many have tried but by the time you add shipping costs and taxes, duties etc etc you will end up at the market price anyway. That’s why all cars are double the price here because of the distance to Australia and government costs
Oh and also there is left hand drive to right hand drive conversion is going to sink that theory especially on a Mercedes
Tuve un SL500 color rojo. Nada se iguala a ese carro.
Nice! I agree, the R230 still provides an incredible value and experience, especially for the price.
Or patch on the r129 and the r231 was not patch on the r230. I have owned all three and I still have the r129. The other two are distant memories.
The R129 was a great car - I used to own one. The R230 is certainly a higher maintenance car, but I especially appreciate the ABC system and the vario hard top, so to me it's worth the extra attention.
@@rollingstocks I feel out of love with my R230 gradually as I realised it was more of a disposable item than the r129
Fair. I consider it more of a "perpetual project" than disposable, haha. There are definitely a lot of seals and things that don't seem like they were made to last longer than 10-15 years.
LP or Strat?
Tough question, considering my two favorite guitars are a 1974 Les Paul Special 55 Classic and my Mexico made standard Fender Stratocaster. If I HAD to choose, it would be the Les Paul, but this particular Strat is arguably just as good a guitar.
Or you can convert it to coil overs and take all the abc stuff out shaving over 200 lbs.
Yeah, I've seen people do that. Aside from it being a MASSIVE job (at least that's what it looks like per Tavarish's video), I would lose the ability to raise/lower and soften/stiffen the suspension, which is a MUST for me considering I both daily drive and race my SL. The ability to change suspension settings with the push of a button is worth the ABC maintenance IMHO. My front bumper would look like it went through a wood chipper if I wasn't able to raise the car to get into driveways where I live.
4500 for 2 front shocks? That's called extortion!! They are beautiful cars, but WOW.
Yeah, seems like a lot until you see the crazy amount of technology that's in each one, and how much abuse they need to be able to take.
Scared the daylights out of me!
Spend the money on tools and learn to fix it yourself. Good set of tires.
I try to do as much work as I can on my own, which is a lot on this car. Some things are just beyond my abilities though, such as jobs that require a lift, and jobs that require two people. Got a set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires on it and they're amazing.
@@rollingstocks I fell you; I'm getting too old to crawl around under cars. Just stale to see huge repair bills. Play it safe when needed but don't be afraid to tear stuff apart. That journey alone will make for good content.
@@ComicbookGuy70 I relate with this. A man with a Ferrari once told me "10% is knowing how to do something, the other 90% is knowing what you don't know how to do" and I take that to heart. I do like the challenge of solving auto repair problems, and I feel really good when I'm able to properly fix something though. I try to do as much maintenance and repairs as I can on my own, but if there's something that needs to be done, and it's entirely over my head, I just pay the professionals to do it.
Sounds like stealership cost
Great video! I agree with you! I just bought an 03 SL500. Check out the video on my channel. I'm afraid that I'm going to have many of the same problems that you did but you know what? I'm okay with that lol such an awesome vehicle!
Yeah, that's pretty much my mentality. If you can accept the weak points, and can fix 'em when they break, the car is amazing to own. Congrats on your new ride 🙂
Thanks for that,I’ll never buy one
Much of the 'background noise' is rather a handicap to your otherwise excellent commentary.
Yes, I am aware that my sound needs work. I've been using a wireless lapel mic lately, so hopefully that's helping.
Get a R129 instead of the money pit R230.
I had an R129 about ten years ago. It was an incredible car. It offered almost the same powerful driving experience as my R230. My R129 unfortunately had some serious issues including fire damage in the engine bay and low compression in one of the cylinders... I had to give it up back then because I couldn't afford to maintain it properly. 10 years later, I've opted for the higher maintenance R230 to procure the retractable hard top and computerized suspension, and I think the expense is worth it. If I wasn't comfortable spending that kind of money though, the R129 would be an excellent choice.
@@rollingstocks oh cool, you had the r129 too! so did I, hated the awful hard top/soft top on that though, never took the hard top off!!!! also the head lights suck on those, they break after a few years on average, the turn signals.
You need to buy some tools and get your hands dirty. Most of your expenses could be done for 10% of what you paid with a little effort.
Very passionate owner. Thank you for sharing.
Agree it is a great deal to have this in your life.
Turns from pussy cat to panther as soon as twitch your right foot.
Perfect metaphor. Even my NA base model growls to life when I want her to. Faster than 99% of the cars I need to pass, haha.
Nope .. nope ... keeping my Altima, thank you!
Haha, I don't blame you, save yourself the pain!
Sorry, but - The R230 is the first loser in the Mercedes Benz ’Sport Light’ series.
It will forever have the distinction of being Daimler Benz’ first digression of assembly line, mass production excuse(s) of a sports roadster.
Bruno Sacco said, upon being interviewed about his opinion of the R129: I believe we’ve designed and built the consummate Mercedes Benz sports car, in the vision that Gottlieb Daimler himself would approve…*
Yeah the R230 was such a loser, Bruno Sacco helped design it too. Before he retired. Even Steve Jobs drove them daily for years. Most powerful SL generation ever with the highest horsepower model. R129 didn’t even come with a glovebox in the dash board, but it’s better? R129 didn’t even have the retractable Varioroof. R129 didn’t even have the brake-by-wire active braking system. R129 never got AMG’s first handcrafted twin turbo V12’s. R129 never got the massaging ventilated and heated seats of R230. No active suspension standard integrated with the active brakes. R129 is a nice car but it’s just not on R230’s performance, capability and quality level. No SL is.
@@lawrencefearon6830 Good reply Lawrence 👍
I miss my 560sl,both my 500 s and sl have suspension problems
money pit!
Yeah, I won't argue with that. At least it's a very fun and practical money pit.
And tie back the hair dude
I always tie it up when I'm working on cars. I've heard too many horror stories of dudes getting pulled into serpentine belts.
Learn to work on your car
I really want to, but the problem is tooling at the moment. There are a lot of tasks I'm not comfortable doing on a hobby-level without a lift (I don't trust jackstands with my life).
@@rollingstocks QuickJack scissor lift is an easy way to get your car up in the air, but a proper post lift is cheap compared to those repair bills.
Mercedes nuts and bolts are lefty loosey, righty tighty just like any other car.
Also, for the love of god WD-40 is a solvent! You’re going to damage your belts! It’s for cleaning out dirt and water.
Use lubricants for lubricating.
@@ferfzero4333 My garage unfortunately is not tall enough to install a lift. Someday I will have one, but not in my current house. Over the last couple of years, I've gotten more and more comfortable working on various car repairs, but some things are still just worth it to me to have someone else do. I used the WD-40 to lubricate the squeaky pulley, so I am using it for it's intended purpose, but in order for the spray to reach said pulley, I have to shoot it through the belts. A qualified Mercedes tech showed me how to do this. Belts are still good, but I did have to replace the alternator with the squeaky pulley 🙂
I'm 80,bad back,no heated garage to work with ,no star diagnostic tool. I need a good independent mechanic
@@MegaRugby2 independent mechanics are the key to owning a car like this, assuming you're not a full fledge mechanic yourself. There's only so many things an amateur can do with limited tools in a small garage.
if you suffer from sciatica pain, do not buy this car. bucket seats means your buttocks are placed lower than your thighs. which will make your thigs feel numb after 5min. if you're going to buy this car, do buy a rubber foam seat pillow as well.
Was planning on getting one of these but your experience and expenses have put paid to it. I still love it though.
Avoid at all costs if you're looking for something low maintenance. These beauties are very high maintenance, albeit, worth it to the people crazy enough to think the trade-off is justified.
I bought an SL 500 from a retired Chelsea (London) banker) unused since 2008 15000 miles.Serviced annually. I changed all the oils just as a precaution. 7 speed gearbox.
The best car I have driven.
Congratulations on your ownership! I've heard the later models like your 2008 don't have as many issues with the ABC. I wonder if this is true...