Mercedes SL (2003 - 2010

[RobertNewton]

I am thinking of changing my CLK for a SL

As with any car, (I know this with my CLK) there will be known issues that the particular marque and model are well known for.

Can members help me please with a shortcut of what to look out for, pitfalls to avoid and which models are most favoured and why.

That would be great and help me with my quest to get the best possible value for money.

 

[pioneercollector]

Hi There, And welcome to the forum.

I took the plunge last year ( New Years Day ) and purchased a lovely 2003 Obsidian Black SL 500. I wanted one in Obsidian and i wanted the V8.
Post 2006 cars do attract a bigger yearly road tax ( £600? as opposed to £330 )
If you are going for the 5.0Litre or the 5.5 Litre the ABC control struts are a weak point ( Mine needed to be replaced and they are EXPENSIVE )
The 3.5 Litre only had these as an optional extra.
The rubber seals will need treating with a good product to keep them supple, you do not want leaks, especially in the boot area - There is a pump in the boot which will die if wet.
Check the boot area for signs of water ingress.
Apart from that, if it has a good service history, and the body work is in good order you should be OK - But do factor in £1k - £2k for yearly 'issues'

I love mine and had all of the necessary work done as i am planning on keeping it for years

Good Luck

 

[Neiltodd]

I am thinking of changing my CLK for a SL

As with any car, (I know this with my CLK) there will be known issues that the particular marque and model are well known for.

Can members help me please with a shortcut of what to look out for, pitfalls to avoid and which models are most favoured and why.

That would be great and help me with my quest to get the best possible value for money.

I was going to do that CLK Convertible to SL but lack of space for touring changed my mind and went to an E convertible