2004 Mercedes Benz SL500

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Suspension24
2. Service brakes9
3. Fuel system, gasoline5
4. Electrical system4
5. Fuel/propulsion system4
6. Wheels3
7. Power train3
8. Service brakes, hydraulic3
9. Vehicle speed control2
10. Unknown or other2

Latest complaints

• Aug 5, 2026TN62,800 mi
  Service brakes, hydraulic
  The contact owns a 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL500. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the message "Brakes Reached Historic Threshold" was displayed, which indicated that the brake control unit had malfunctioned. Additionally, while depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal was spongy…

  The contact owns a 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL500. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the message "Brakes Reached Historic Threshold" was displayed, which indicated that the brake control unit had malfunctioned. Additionally, while depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal was spongy, causing the stopping distance to become extended. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and was diagnosed with brake control unit failure. The contact was informed that the brake control unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that a 25-year warranty for the failure was previously issued by the manufacturer that was associated with the failure, but was not honored. The failure mileage was 62,800.

• Jan 24, 2026CO
  Service brakes
  Question 1: The Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) unit, which is a high-pressure "brake-by-wire" hydraulic system. Component A7/3. The component is currently installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection. Question 2: The vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic loss of hydraulic brake…

  Question 1: The Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) unit, which is a high-pressure "brake-by-wire" hydraulic system. Component A7/3. The component is currently installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection. Question 2: The vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic loss of hydraulic brake pressure while in operation. This failure required extreme physical force on the pedal and significant increase in stopping distance. The vehicle is currently in my garage with chocked wheels until I figure out what's next. A couple days ago, I had the car at a dealer and requested a review of this system and they released the car back to me stating the system status was, "OK" despite me stating to the dealer that the safety-monitoring counter was found to be at 0 on a 63,000-mile car. In all of my research, I believe this "silenced" the vehicle's ability to provide a timely service warning (Code C249F) before total hydraulic failure occurred. Question 3: Mercedes-Benz of Denver performed a diagnostic on January 21, 2026. While the dealer initially claimed the system was "OK," the total failure occurred within 72 hours of their inspection. The reason it was at Benz of Denver is because my independent mechanic confirmed the 0 actuation count which was suspicious to me. I wanted to understand the mechanical integrity of the newly purchased vehicle. Question 4: Yes, inspected by an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership technician on January 21, 2026. Question 5: To my knowledge there were no mechanical symptoms prior to the red screen however, I cannot confirm or deny that as I had driven less than 1000 miles since I purchased the vehicle. I have no concept of how the braking "should have" felt. The only "symptom" was the technical data anomaly (the 0 actuation count) flagged by an independent shop, which I can attest the dealer refused to investigate fully. On January 24th, 2026, the RED dashboard warning appeared: "Reduced Brake Effect - Start Engine!".

• Apr 23, 2023PAFire
  Electrical system
  The 2003-2006 R230 series seem to have a problem with the BCM (Battery Control Module) as start an electrical fire in the trunk. Very common issue and a safety hazard - this is what happened with my car. Vehicle has dual battery, starter in front, convenience battery in trunk and fuses that operate…

  The 2003-2006 R230 series seem to have a problem with the BCM (Battery Control Module) as start an electrical fire in the trunk. Very common issue and a safety hazard - this is what happened with my car. Vehicle has dual battery, starter in front, convenience battery in trunk and fuses that operate at 130 Amps - the BCM capacitors and circuit board age and at some point can no longer handle the high current and catch fire.

• May 7, 2022SC
  Fuel/propulsion system

  On many 2003 and 2004 models. Broken fuel tank baffle inside fuel tank. This is well documented and could possibly cause explosion.

• Jul 30, 2020PA118,000 mi
  Fuel/propulsion system
  On july 22, 2020 the vehicle (2004 mercedes-benz sl500 (r230)began making a loud banging noise in the rear when stopping and turning. I delivered the vehicle to a local shop where the vehicle was diagnosed as having a broken baffle in the fuel tank. The only solution IS to replace the entire fuel…

  On july 22, 2020 the vehicle (2004 mercedes-benz sl500 (r230)began making a loud banging noise in the rear when stopping and turning. I delivered the vehicle to a local shop where the vehicle was diagnosed as having a broken baffle in the fuel tank. The only solution IS to replace the entire fuel tank. Many other owners of this model have experienced the same issue and IS clearly a manufacturer defect; this cannot be caused by excess wear on the vehicle. Because there IS now a large section of the fuel tank freely swinging inside, there IS a chance that this could cause a spark and subsequent explosion. I cannot safely drive this vehicle until the fuel tank IS replaced at a very large cost. This model should have been recalled when this issue was first coming to light over 15 years ago.

• Jun 29, 2020TX92,000 mi
  Suspension
  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz sl500. The contact stated on various occasions while his vehicle was stationery and in park, either the right side or the left side of the vehicle would raise up then descend to ground over a thirty second period independently without warning. The contact…

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz sl500. The contact stated on various occasions while his vehicle was stationery and in park, either the right side or the left side of the vehicle would raise up then descend to ground over a thirty second period independently without warning. The contact also stated that the hydraulic fluid leaked out of the engine. The vehicle had yet to be taken to a dealer to be diagnosed or serviced for the failure. Upon investigation, the contact linked his failure to nhtsa campaign number :08v405000 (suspension) however, the vin was not included in the recall. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

• Jun 2, 2020CA88,620 mi
  Fuel/propulsion system
  I experience a strong odor of fuel when entering my vehicle and when driving the vehicle, also when driving the vehicle I heart a loud thumping sound coming from the trunk area. Sounds to me as though something IS floating inside gas tank. This odor has sickened me and has severely upset my stomach…

  I experience a strong odor of fuel when entering my vehicle and when driving the vehicle, also when driving the vehicle I heart a loud thumping sound coming from the trunk area. Sounds to me as though something IS floating inside gas tank. This odor has sickened me and has severely upset my stomach to the point that I'm unable to drive my vehicle except for a short distance. The thumping sound IS created when vehicle IS moving or coming to a stop but happens continuously while driving. *tr

• May 18, 2019VA60,000 mi
  Service brakes · Suspension · Unknown or other
  The vehicle has a bracket on top of the gas tank that comes disengaded and causes this distinctive noise which sounds like something swinging and tapping against the gas tank and I has to happen a lot due to every service I have been asked about the problem. it also has to be something with…

  The vehicle has a bracket on top of the gas tank that comes disengaded and causes this distinctive noise which sounds like something swinging and tapping against the gas tank and I has to happen a lot due to every service I have been asked about the problem. it also has to be something with multiple vehicles due to online mercedes owners are having the same problem. the sound IS really disturbing and I would like an answer as to what to do. thanks [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6).' *pm

• Feb 1, 2019TX61,000 mi
  Electrical system · Service brakes · Service brakes, hydraulic · Suspension
  I submitted via fax earlier this week a formal letter to mr. Exler the president & ceo of mbusa and, cc'd mr. King of the nhtsa that included information about known critical safety issued these vehicles had prior to mbusa importing them to the united states. mbusa failed to disclose these known…

  I submitted via fax earlier this week a formal letter to mr. Exler the president & ceo of mbusa and, cc'd mr. King of the nhtsa that included information about known critical safety issued these vehicles had prior to mbusa importing them to the united states. mbusa failed to disclose these known issues and, chose to importation these vehicles violating vehicle importation rules. yesterday-january 31, 2019 I received a call from a representative of mbusa stating he was calling on behalf of mr. Exlers office concerning my letter. I will not be intimidated by mbusa while seeking the truth on why mbusa allowed these vehicles to enter the USA knowing these critical safety issues existed while misleading consumers and, the nhtsa. on january 21, 2019 my vehicle had what IS described by mbusa as a catastrophic failure when the entire brake system failed. this failure could have killed me - and, other motorist. mbusa has replaced the sbc unit at least 6 times and, still the issue and, other persist. the vehicle has been driven on average 4,000 miles annually. how many failures must happen before mbusa IS fully investigated? they refused to provide me any information on the vehicles except the 4 year warranty period. once I complete my research on these vehicles I will submit my findings to the nhtsa & ms. King

• Dec 6, 2018VA144,000 mi
  Fuel/propulsion system
  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz sl500. When the vehicle was started, the contact heard an abnormal knocking sound underneath the vehicle near the fuel tank. Additionally, there was a constant fuel odor inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to mercedes-benz of virginia beach (located…

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz sl500. When the vehicle was started, the contact heard an abnormal knocking sound underneath the vehicle near the fuel tank. Additionally, there was a constant fuel odor inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to mercedes-benz of virginia beach (located at 4949 virginia beach blvd, virginia beach, va 23462, (757) 499-3771) where it was diagnosed that one of the baffles in the fuel tank fractured, separated, and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 144,000. The vin was not available.

• Nov 15, 2018FLFire
  Electrical system

  Nov 14 early morning a fire started in the truck of my car. Completely destroyed the car. was parked in my garage. truck was empty. had just used car morning of nov 13 and all was fine. *****please see images img_1733, img_1734 and img_1738 thank you.

• Oct 26, 2018TX
  Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes · Suspension
  Due to deterioration of the wiring harness connection or failure of the hydraulic pump, the sensotronic brake control (sbc) system may default to the hydraulic back-up mode. In the back-up mode, the driver has braking power sufficient to stop the vehicle, but greater brake pedal pressure IS…

  Due to deterioration of the wiring harness connection or failure of the hydraulic pump, the sensotronic brake control (sbc) system may default to the hydraulic back-up mode. In the back-up mode, the driver has braking power sufficient to stop the vehicle, but greater brake pedal pressure IS required and brake pedal travel will be noticeably longer. Dealers will install a bracket and replacement ground wire to the sbc pump unit on all affected vehicles. Additionally, dealers will inspect and replace the ssc pump unit in certain SL models. The mercedes-benz recall numbers are 2005070007 and 2005110001. research shows only 59% of the 100% required recall was done properly by an authorized dealer. this issue was not disclosed when I purchased this car and, the required work was not done and, mercedes said the 60 days from recall had passed - yet the reports sent to nhtsa by mercedes benz appears to be false data - this should be investigated.

• Jan 4, 2018VA131,000 mi
  Service brakes
  I purchased this vehicle in 2014. My brakes completely went out while driving january 1 2018. I was attempting to stop at an intersection when the the vehicle would not stop with oncoming traffic on both sides coming towards me. I immediately pressed the accelerator and sped through the…

  I purchased this vehicle in 2014. My brakes completely went out while driving january 1 2018. I was attempting to stop at an intersection when the the vehicle would not stop with oncoming traffic on both sides coming towards me. I immediately pressed the accelerator and sped through the intersection to avoid an accident....absolutely terrifying and without any warning whatsoever. Because the dealership was closed I was unable to seek service that day. I called mercedes of richmond va being that was the closest dealership where I was visiting at at the time. Unfortunately I could not get an appointment until january 3RD. I had it towed that morning and they came back hours later notifying me it was in face the sbc system which needed to be replaced at the cost of $2006. I was outraged learning that mbusa knew of this issue nhtsa campaign number 04v296000 in june 2004 but closed it out in december 2013. I did not purchase the vehicle until 2014. I asked if there was anything they could do to assist me as one of the associates informed me about "good will" service where they might consider my situation and help. I was again extremely disappointed to learn they would only assist with $300 as we have 2 mercedes and have incurred thousands of dollars in known repair issues of the few years. I am asking that mbusa accept the cost of this repair as it was a known issue that they were replacing at no cost to owner. I have 131,000 miles on the car which IS under mileage for that year. They told me to ask mercedes if they would consider assisting in any way but they said there was nothing they could do.

• Jun 13, 2017OK81,000 mi
  Suspension
  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz sl500. The contact stated that the suspension failed and caused the wheels to drop against the inside of the fenders. The vehicle was inoperable unless lifted up with some sort of lifting equipment. The contact informed mercedes-benz of oklahoma city who…

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz sl500. The contact stated that the suspension failed and caused the wheels to drop against the inside of the fenders. The vehicle was inoperable unless lifted up with some sort of lifting equipment. The contact informed mercedes-benz of oklahoma city who stated that the failure was a design issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer. The approximate failure mileage was 81,000.

• May 9, 2017CA
  Suspension
  "Takata recall" 1. The total body of my 2004 SL mercedes benz suddenly collapsed without warning to within 3 inches from hi-way while traveling on the freeway approximately 50 miles an hour causing me to loose control due to the wheels to drag against the undercarriage and damage to front bumper…

  "Takata recall" 1. The total body of my 2004 SL mercedes benz suddenly collapsed without warning to within 3 inches from hi-way while traveling on the freeway approximately 50 miles an hour causing me to loose control due to the wheels to drag against the undercarriage and damage to front bumper preventing me me to steer freely while fluid from the ruptured abc valve line apparent sprayed on to the engine. The red abc light came on saying stop to low to drive followed by red srs light (safety restraint system/ air bags) the internet reviles a multitude of owners of this class and year mercedes benz having the same problem due to a ruptured hydraulic line

• Apr 10, 2017CA
  Air bags · Electrical system · Suspension
  "Takata recall" 1. The total body of my 2004 SL mercedes benz suddenly collapsed without warning to within 3 inches from hi-way while traveling approximately 50 miles an hour causing the wheels to drag against the undercarriage and damage to front bumper preventing me me to steer freely while…

  "Takata recall" 1. The total body of my 2004 SL mercedes benz suddenly collapsed without warning to within 3 inches from hi-way while traveling approximately 50 miles an hour causing the wheels to drag against the undercarriage and damage to front bumper preventing me me to steer freely while fluid from the ruptured abc valve line apparent sprayed on to the engine. The red abc light came on saying stop to low to drive followed by red srs light (safety restaint syatem/ air bags)

• Feb 4, 2017TX107,000 mi
  Power train · Suspension · Vehicle speed control
  I live in texas and my mercedes went into limp mode at a red light. I can not get my transmission repaired anywhere else because they have made it impossible for any other shops to be able to service this specific transmission. They tell me and I quote "we are unable to work on this transmission…

  I live in texas and my mercedes went into limp mode at a red light. I can not get my transmission repaired anywhere else because they have made it impossible for any other shops to be able to service this specific transmission. They tell me and I quote "we are unable to work on this transmission because it requires special tools which only mercedes dealership carry so you will have to take it to them, sorry" please, please, please recall this transmission!!! another time I was diving down the hwy doing 70mph when the abc too low dash light came on as well as my car dropping 2 inched to the ground as I was drive 70mph plus I lost control of steering. And once again no one could work on it because it requires special tools. And the one place that could said they were mercedes benz certified. After having my car 3 days and paying $125 for a diagnostic test. I was told it was going to be $5000+ to fix. Long story short I payed the car lot where I bought it from $3587.00 to fix it .

• Jan 13, 2017FL61,230 mi
  Service brakes

  Brakes fail...warning light only after you have no brakes...a suicide machine in traffic

• Jan 6, 2017CA90,000 mi
  Suspension

  I have had major problems with the suspension. The abc light came on before. The car dropped on the freeway. I almost lost control. It IS a major problem that should have been recalled and fixed properly. I've only driven 400 miles in the last few years total because I'm afraid something bad will happen again.

• Oct 10, 2016CA18,633 mi
  Suspension
  The vehicles suspension erratically lowers and rises while driving causing the driver to lose temporary control of the vehicle. This occurs unexpectedly at all speeds. The vehicle has been towed to the mercedes dealer 4 times. The dealer has flushed the hydraulic fluid once, replaced one strut…

  The vehicles suspension erratically lowers and rises while driving causing the driver to lose temporary control of the vehicle. This occurs unexpectedly at all speeds. The vehicle has been towed to the mercedes dealer 4 times. The dealer has flushed the hydraulic fluid once, replaced one strut twice, and 3 suspension acceleration sensors and 1 send unit. The vehicle was returned to me several times and condition continued and was returned back to the dealer. Currently the dealer has the vehicle and IS not sure how to repair it. The vehicle computer does not indicate codes, but dealer has driven the vehicle and witness this unsafe condition. A formal compliant been filed with mercedes USA. The vehicle IS unsafe to drive based on current condition.

• Jul 6, 2016VACrash
  Unknown or other

  There IS a constant swinging nouse in the wall behind the seats which IS consistant to the problems a lot of owners are having. I have the same problem with my mercedes and the noise just seems to be something IS free swinging inside the tank or around it which IS very irritating for such a luxury vehicle. please give me a solution to this problem that seems to be common when the vehicle IS driven or stopping.

• May 4, 2016CA56,000 mi
  Suspension · Vehicle speed control
  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz sl500. The contact stated that the vehicle abruptly accelerated while driving 2 mph. The activate body control system failed and caused the hydraulic system to drop lower while driving. The contact was able to coast onto the road shoulder. The active body…

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes-benz sl500. The contact stated that the vehicle abruptly accelerated while driving 2 mph. The activate body control system failed and caused the hydraulic system to drop lower while driving. The contact was able to coast onto the road shoulder. The active body control system warning light illuminated after the failure occurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the hydraulic system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified. The failure mileage was 56,000.

• Nov 24, 2015VA90,000 mi
  Suspension
  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes benz sl500. The contact stated that the vehicle was equipped with a compressed air suspension system and while driving approximately 35 mph, the active body control warning indicator illuminated. In addition, another indicator displayed that the vehicle was too…

  TL* the contact owns a 2004 mercedes benz sl500. The contact stated that the vehicle was equipped with a compressed air suspension system and while driving approximately 35 mph, the active body control warning indicator illuminated. In addition, another indicator displayed that the vehicle was too low as the passenger's side ride height was lowered. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed that the active body control system or the sensor would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.

• Nov 5, 2015NV50,700 mi
  Suspension
  Red abc warning light on. suspension system in failure mode reducing road handling and vehicle control below minimum safety levels. Mb repair costs exceed blue book car value even though vehicle use less than half life. Lic. P.e #6274 notes mb design/engineering failure--intentional mal-design…

  Red abc warning light on. suspension system in failure mode reducing road handling and vehicle control below minimum safety levels. Mb repair costs exceed blue book car value even though vehicle use less than half life. Lic. P.e #6274 notes mb design/engineering failure--intentional mal-design scheme set-up to defraud consumers of billions $. Severe graft/ over charge in process in that airbus aircraft and nuclear design /engineering by mb facilitates pathway to appropriate scaled down costs for ground transportation vehicles. Mb also needs to respond this mb car owner so that elevated discontent IS a non occurrence.

• Sep 20, 2015CA100,300 mi
  Structure › Body
  I was driving in heavy bumper to bumper rush hour traffic when the cars in front approached the red light I begun to apply brakes and my brakes would not respond until I stood up on the brakes and as a result I rear ended the vehicle in front of me. Luckily no one was injured. I carried the car…

  I was driving in heavy bumper to bumper rush hour traffic when the cars in front approached the red light I begun to apply brakes and my brakes would not respond until I stood up on the brakes and as a result I rear ended the vehicle in front of me. Luckily no one was injured. I carried the car to the mercedes authorized dealership in beverly hills and the problem was diagnosed a ABS pump failure and they stated that there was a recall and the previous owner carried it in, therefore, I had to pay for the replacement. Then on or about sept 18, the abc light came on and the front suspension failed causing the car to drop too low to safely drive.

Defect investigations

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.

• Air suspension system failure

  PE07042Opened Aug 14, 2007Closed Nov 20, 2007
  The subject s-class vehicles contain a compressed air suspension system that uses air struts on each of the four wheels in lieu of traditional springs and shock absorbers.these air struts use compressed air to support the weight of the vehicle and control ride height.in the event of the loss of air from the system, an…

  The subject s-class vehicles contain a compressed air suspension system that uses air struts on each of the four wheels in lieu of traditional springs and shock absorbers.these air struts use compressed air to support the weight of the vehicle and control ride height.in the event of the loss of air from the system, an alert will flash on the instrument cluster warning the driver to either drive carefully or to stop the vehicle.the vehicle ride height can be reduced by as much as 105 mm below normal ride height before the full load of the vehicle for that wheel comes to rest on a steel rod, with a rubber stop on the end, located in the shock absorber.this rest-stop condition IS designed such that there IS no impact on vehicle control.mercedes-benz (mbusa) supplied video showing a vehicle in this condition operating under several different situations including evasive maneuvers demonstrating the ability of the vehicle to be controlled effectively with a ride height reduced to the minimum.only those complaints to odi and mbusa that alleged a steering interference during a reduced ride height condition were counted in this resume failure report.some complaints alleged that with a reduced ride height and a stop now warning message there was a rubbing noise when turning, but the ability to steer the vehicle was not compromised.a sampling of warranty claims submitted by mbusa did not reveal any indicating a loss of control due to an airmatic system failure.there was one crash reported by mbusa to odi but the information available indicated that it related to suspension systems and it was not possible to verify that the incident was related to an airmatic system failure. Further use of agency resources in this matter does not appear to be warranted.the agency will continue to monitor complaints and other information relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles and will take further action in the future if warranted.this preliminary evaluation IS closed.

Service bulletins

Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.

• 11009122Complaint Washer fluid system leaks Cause Various possible causes: 1. Washer fluid reservoir itself. 2. Seal on washer fluid pump/washer fluid reservoir. 3. Washer fluid pump. 3.1. Distributor housing leaks. 3.2. Pump fitting leaks. 3.3. Washer fluid hose cannot be snapped into place on pump fitting. 3.4. Washer fluid hose will not stay on pump fitting, although connector OK. 4. Washer fluid line. 4.1 Connector will not stay on pump fitting because it is broken. 4.2 Sealing ring in connector missing. 4.3 Sealing ring in connector fitted, but deformed and therefore leaks. 4.4 Damage to washer line by animal. 5. Seal on heating washer fluid reservoir/washer fluid reservoir. Remedy Replace defective component parts only. Do not replace any adjacent component parts that are intact. Note: Repair kits for washer line hoses do exist to allow patches for line damage.
• 11008091Complaint During a phone call, the called party has difficulty understanding/cannot understand the driver, or interference/background noises are audible to the called party during a call. It becomes increasingly difficult to understand as the speed rises. Cause A. Seating of the microphones in the headliner. Side edges are covered by the textile cover (see picture "1") B. Assembly of microphones (B25/20 or B25/21) in the headliner. C. Dirt inside the microphone housing Remedy 1. Press finger on rear of microphone (on adhesive tape) 2. Remove microphone cap from the front 3. Eliminate protruding material residues of the microphone cutout at the headliner, e.g. with a soldering iron. The microphone must be seated in the headliner as shown in picture "2". 4. Push microphone from behind until it is firmly pressed into the headliner 5. Maintain pressure and press/clip cap into microphone from the front. Note: The cover cap must be clearly heard and felt to engage. 6. This procedure must be carried out on both microphones (B25/20 and B25/21) Note: It is recommended to replace the cover caps. The non-woven cloth in the cover cap protects the microphone from soiling and must not be removed. NOTE: The information contained in this document is intended for use by trained, professional technicians with the knowledge to properly and safely perform diagnosis and repairs on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, using Mercedes-Benz approved tools and equipment. It informs service technicians about conditions that could occur in certain vehicles and provides information that could assist in proper vehicle diagnosis, service, or repair. It does not indicate that a defect is present in any vehicle referenced in this document nor does it imply warranty coverage. DO NOT assume that a symptom or condition, or a described cause of a symptom or condition, affects any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles, or that a described repair applies to any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles. There can be multiple causes resulting in the same or similar symptoms or conditions described in this document, and trained professional service technicians must use their diagnostic skills to make evaluations on a case-by-case basis. The information contained in this document does not guarantee warranty coverage nor does it extend the vehicles warranty in any way.
• 11007974Complaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp. A leak test must be performed to determine if physical fogging exists or if the headlamp is leaky. Remedy In advance, observe LI82.10-P-078301 "Headlamps or Front Fog Lamps Leaking or Fogged". 1. Prepare headlamp/check for external damage: For headlamps with a closed system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and check also for correct seating of the Gore-diaphragm/correct latching of the cover caps. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. For headlamps with an open system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and seal off the vent then make sure the cover caps are latched correctly into place. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. Note: A headlamp with external damage is not a warranty or goodwill case. 2. Leak test of headlamp with overpressure: Connect test adapter to pressure tester. (Figure 1) Check test adapter for leak tightness. To do so, connect plug and coupling (picture 2) and apply a maximum overpressure of 30 mbar. The pressure must remain constant. If the pressure does not remain constant, use a new adapter. Seal all the outlet openings using sealing compound and the given diaphragm with the plunger (picture 3). (Picture 4) Make allowance for the different headlamp variants here (there are different outlet openings). Check if the headlamp needs to be removed to gain access to the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. Plug the adapter onto the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. (Picture 5). Apply a maximum of 30 mbar overpressure to the headlamp housing. Note: If the maximum overpressure of 50 mbar is exceeded the headlamp seal will be damaged. If a pressure drop of less than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is not leaky and the problem is down to natural physical fogging. If a pressure drop of more than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is leaky. Note: The leaky position can be localized with the aid of soap suds. Replace any leaky headlamps. Note: Desiccant packs can be installed for headlamps that are not leaky. See: LI82.10-P-064766 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - open ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - closed ventilation system
• 11007753Complaint Headlamp or front fog lamp leaky or fogged Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. Headlamps comply with all applicable standards. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the hood or trunk. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing fogged/condensed halogen/xenon headlamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4F). Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch off the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Note: If there is no visible reduction in the formation of condensation, check the headlamp for a defect. (See Remedy 2) It is not physically possible to defog the headlamps completely. Fogging does not impair the operation or the service life of the headlamp. Remedy 2 A Damaged headlamp can be identified as follows: 1. Check the headlamp for external damage and that the cover caps and the diaphragm are correctly seated. 2. Check the electrical connectors of the plugs and pins. 3. Check for leak tightness in accordance with LI82.10-P-078307. The test can only be conducted on headlamps. 4. If the headlamp or the rear lamp has any external damage, replace the component part in accordance with the WIS instructions. Note: External damage to the headlamp/rear lamp or faulty seating of the cover caps does not present a warranty or goodwill case. With headlamps, it is possible to install desiccant packs if the problem occurs repeatedly. Open ventilation system: LI82.10-P-064766. Closed ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304
• 11005294Complaint Rear lamps fogged up/not leaktight. Cause Fogging of the rear lamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. This does not lead to any technical impairment of the rear lamps. Remedy Rear lamp: Remedy 1: Clearing fogged/condensed rear lamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) Note: Do not wash the vehicle or subject it to high-pressure cleaning before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the trunk. 4. Switch on the exterior lighting. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation -> a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (defogging progress).
• 11000705Battery Control Module needs replacement due to electrical overstress. Incorrect charging procedures and battery maintenance. Remedy Proper care and maintenance of the electrical system of MY2003-2012 SL-Class. Please share the below excerpts from the Owners Manual and general guidance, cautions, and suggestions regarding battery charging and maintenance with customers. Guidance and Cautions : Failure to follow these instructions can lead to severe injuries or death, damage to the vehicle or its electronic components, and/or cause a battery explosion. Following extended periods of non-operation, Mercedes-Benz AG (MBAG) recommends the use of Mercedes-Benz approved battery chargers to ensure optimal battery maintenance and performance. Do not use a quick-charge unit (jump box) and avoid jump starting after extended periods of non-operation. FOR DEALERS: For comprehensive guidelines on battery charging, please refer to document AR54.10-P-1130I. Charge vehicle batteries according to the instructions in the owners Manual. Dealers can also reference WIS document AR54.10-P-1130I. If the battery needs to be removed, please follow the instructions in the owners manual and reinstall a new or charged battery in reverse order. MY2003-2012 SL-Class vehicles are equipped with two 12V batteries. See owners manual. If both batteries are drained, never connect a charger to both batteries simultaneously. Jump Starting: The starter battery is located on the right side of the engine compartment. Jump starting may only be performed on the battery installed in the engine compartment. Never use the auxiliary battery installed in the trunk to jump start the vehicle. Do not attempt to start the engine using a battery quick-charge unit or battery charger/tender not approved by MBAG. Only jump start from batteries with the same voltage rating (12V). Jump starting with a higher voltage battery could damage the vehicles electrical system. Avoid repeated and/or lengthy starting attempts. This could result in damage to the vehicle or its electrical system, severe injuries, or death.
• 10252770As previously reported, to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, avoid further costs of litigation and return focus to its core businesses, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) has entered into a Settlement regarding claims relating to allegations that the 590 Mars Red paint available as an original, exterior color option for certain models of Mercedes-Benz vehicles may experience peeling, flaking, or bubbling of the exterior paint or clear coat. This Mars Red paint is sometimes referred to as Fire Opal. The purpose of this update is to alert you that: 1. The Settlement has received final approval. The Settlement will go into effect on March 11, 2024. As of that date, customers are eligible to receive extended warranty coverage under the Settlement. 2. Under the Settlement, an eligible customer might receive extended warranty coverage as of the date the vehicle is presented to your dealership OR certain customers might have validated Qualified Future Repair claims, making them eligible for a different level of coverage. To determine if a customer: (a) is eligible for extended warranty coverage; and (b) what level of warranty coverage is available to them, please refer to the Service Packages section in VMI/Netstar. 3. Damage code 21800 (damage type 00) must be used for warranty claims covered pursuant to the Settlement. Please note that you should only claim for the percentage of warranty repair cost reflected in VMI/Netstar (see below, e.g., for Period Two, claim only 50% of warranty repair cost). 4. Before the dealership agrees to perform any work: The customer should be given a Repair Order containing: (1) an estimate for the repair, (2) the portion covered under the extended warranty; and (3) the customers contribution amount for the repair, if applicable. The customer must agree to pay their contribution amount for the repair and sign the Repair Order before the repair is performed.
• 10248162Crease formation on genuine leather seat covers in vehicles with low mileage Objects left on the seats for extended periods of time (pressure marks). Objects wedged between the seat backrest and seat cushion (e.g. seat belt buckle). Light initial creases due to vehicle handling. Light creases in the outer covers originating from the production process (missing finish). Heat treatment of the seat covers using heat gun and plastic wedge. Be very careful to not overheat the seat material!
• 10205293Tire Pressure Sensors.
• 10181124Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D or R
• 10181123Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D
• 10167545During disengagement from D to N and/or from R to N some slight jolting could be experienced.
• 10167001Height adjustment of electric steering column adjustment is nonfunctional.
• 10166997The noise comes from the front axle. Vehicles without code B07 (AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system)
• 10166982During disengagement from D to N and/or from R to N some slight jolting could be experienced.
• 10166976Message in instrument cluster "DISTRONIC PLUSCurrently Unavailable - See Owner's Manual"
• 10166975This Customer 1 Action has been initiated because certain mbrace subscribers were recently contacted by mbrace informing them that they need to have an i-button call performed to ensure their mbrace device has registered with the Verizon Telematics systems. If the i-button call failed or if the customer was unable to perform the i-button call, the mbrace agent instructed the customer to make an appointment with their dealer to have the issue corrected and/or i-button call performed. The vehicles impacted range from model year 2002 to 2014.
• 10166105The electrical wiring harness is trapped between the height adjustment gearing and the cushion frame.
• 10165844Possible minor leakage at described components or oil transfer from assembly plant.
• 10165839Shift quality complaints on TRANSMISSION 722.9 (7G-TRONIC and 7G-TRONIC PLUS)
• 10158329Oil in engine wiring harness
• 10135628iPhone mobile phone: Various complaints after software update to iOS8
• 10044222Mercedes benz: front or rear seat belt does not roll up correctly. Dirt deposits on the seat belt guide due to soiled seat belt. Also included models 169, f cell, 246, and 231. No model years given.
• 10033070Xentry (mercedes): engine warning lamp IS currently on or was on and a delay fault of the camshaft adjust to current or stored in the engine control unit. Models 171, 203, 209, 211, 219, 221, 216, 230, 164, 251, and 403. No model years listed.
• 10030929Mercedes: corrosion protection coatings for brake components and hardware may be damaged and or stripped away if highly concentrated acid based cleaners are used. Once the corrosion protection IS damaged or removed the brake components and or hardware can begin to corrode. Include all models and model years.
• 10029945Mercedes: there IS a srs warning in the instrument cluster; this may be due to the wss control unit connection being loose or unplugged. No model years listed.
• 10028644Mercedes: vehicle fails star diagnosis test; inspect brake system for air." models 230, 219, and 211. Model years 2003-2009.
• 10028626Mercedes: the vehicle's suspension level randomly lowering while driving and/or rapid sporadic level changes shortly after stopping the vehicle, replace the body acceleration sensors. Models 215.3, 220, and 230. Model years unknown.
• 10028587Mercedes: leaks at steering gear control head connection to high or low pressure lines or leaks at internal steering lines of control head connection to steering gear housing. Models 171, 203, 204, 209, 211, 215, 216, 219, 220, 221, and 230. Model years unknown.
• 10028585Mercedes vehicles: the xenon or bi-xenon headlamp not functioning. A function description can be found in wis document gf8s.10-p-20010 (203), gf82.10-p-0003q (209); gf82.10-p-3002r (230). Model years uknown.
• 10024362Mercedes-benz - check catalytic converters and replace if necessary - models 203, 209, 211, 215, 230 - model years 2004-2005. Update 8/7/2008.
• 10021522Knocking noise from the front axle area.
• 10016687Abc visit workshop displayed in instrument cluster and hydraulic fluid leakage. Updated 5/14/09. Models 215, 220 and 230. Model years unknown.
• 10016670Mercedes: the fuel level indicated in the instrument cluster does not match the actual fill level. This may be caused by a fault in the fuel level sensor function chain: hydraulic and electrical lines and their connections, rear sam or instrument cluster. Updated 2/23/09. Updated 9/18/09. Model years unknown.

Every Mercedes Benz SL500 model year

Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.