2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SL500
0 recalls — 108 complaints — 42 TSBs
No recalls found for this vehicle.
Complaint Statistics
108 total complaints
2 crashes 7 fires 1 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| SUSPENSION | 33 |
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 9 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 9 |
| SERVICE BRAKES | 9 |
| FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | 8 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC | 6 |
| STEERING | 6 |
| ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) | 5 |
| AIR BAGS | 5 |
| POWER TRAIN | 4 |
AIR BAGS
Nov 29, 2023
Incident date: Nov 14, 2023
The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Traverse. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of t... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Nov 27, 2023
Incident date: Nov 27, 2023
This car was purchased from Nissan and was guaranteed to be safe and dependable. This was sold to me for over $15,000.00, trade in is maybe $3,000 but probably nothing now because of this recall and I am still paying on this loan. I live in a huge fire zone, in the mountains near Yosemite National P... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 22, 2023
Incident date: Aug 1, 2023
A Shift to Park message displayed while the vehicle is in park. The car will not turn off and continues to run. The issue is well documented through GM/Chevrolet, as they have a service bulletin (19-NA-206) for it. That document specifically states that the Voltec Warranty covers this issue, but Che... Read more
SUSPENSION
Sep 28, 2022
Incident date: May 1, 2017
ABC (Active Body Control) light keeps coming on and body goes up and down when I drove car. Light says do not drive. Mercedes would not take responsibility for this in spite there are so many complaints about this. Really irresponsible by Mercedes.
SUSPENSION
Jul 20, 2022
Incident date: Jul 19, 2022
I was driving my car at 45 mph and suddenly, unexpectedly a red light flashed ABC do not drive. Smoke was coming from under the car and the front end of the vehicle collapsed downwardly. I had to call for a tow truck to take my vehicle to the MB dealership. I'm I am waiting for the prognosis. I've h... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Jul 19, 2022
Incident date: Jul 5, 2022
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact depressed the brake pedal firmly however, the vehicle failed to respond. The parking brake was activated however, the vehi... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Mar 15, 2022
Incident date: Feb 14, 2022
The 2003 SL500 with seemingly no instigating incident or event had the gas tank baffle come apart due to the poor and faulty design of this component. This baffle now is loose and floats on the gas in the gas tank, banging around when there is acceleration or deceleration, even turning sometimes cau... Read more
SUSPENSION
Dec 30, 2021
Incident date: Aug 21, 2021
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle, the following day he noticed that the front of the vehicle was lowered down. The contact stated that the car was too low a warning light was illuminated. The contact stated while starting the vehicle and ... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Aug 22, 2021
Incident date: Mar 29, 2021
It has been nearly two years I have stopped driving my 2003 Mercedes SL500, although I only have about 80,000 miles on the car. This is due to ABC warning light(red display: please drive carefully)comes on intermittently and the car drives very bouncy and it feels the car has no shocks, definitely f... Read more
STEERING
Aug 22, 2021
Incident date: Mar 29, 2021
It has been nearly two years I have stopped driving my 2003 Mercedes SL500, although I only have about 80,000 miles on the car. This is due to ABC warning light(red display: please drive carefully)comes on intermittently and the car drives very bouncy and it feels the car has no shocks, definitely f... Read more
SUSPENSION
Aug 22, 2021
Incident date: Mar 29, 2021
It has been nearly two years I have stopped driving my 2003 Mercedes SL500, although I only have about 80,000 miles on the car. This is due to ABC warning light(red display: please drive carefully)comes on intermittently and the car drives very bouncy and it feels the car has no shocks, definitely f... Read more
STEERING
Apr 29, 2021
Incident date: Jan 1, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE ACTIVE BODY CONTROL (ABC) WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT PARKED THE VEHICLE ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOW... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jul 6, 2020
Incident date: Jun 25, 2020
HEARING CLANGING, THUMP NOISE BETWEEN SEATS AND TRUCK, TOOK IT TO A REPAIR SHOP AND WAS ADVISED IT IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH THIS MODEL - PROBLEM WITH BAFFLE IN THE TANK AND MIGHT HAVE COME OFF, SEARCHED ON-LINE AND FOUND HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS FOR THE SAME ISSUE, WAS THIS EVER ADDRESSED BY MB AND REC... Read more
SUSPENSION
Oct 9, 2019
Incident date: Oct 1, 2019
MY CAR IS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. THE ABC LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON AND THE CARS SUSPENSION CONTINUES TO RAISE AND FALL. MANY TIMES ONE SIDE HIGHER THAN THE OTHER AND NOT EVENLY. IN 2013 I HAD A SIMILAR PROBLEM AND ENDED UP COSTING ROUGHLY $3200. OBVIOUSLY, THIS IS AN UNSAFE MECHANICAL ISSUE. AFTER ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 8, 2019
Incident date: Feb 5, 2018
SOMETIMES WHEN I START THE CAR THE LIGHTS ON THE DASH WILL NOT COME ON AND NONE OF THE GAUGES WORK ! THEN I TURN IT OFF AND BACK ON AGAIN AND IT WORKS! ALSO WHEN I'M DRIVING AND HIT A LITTLE BUMP ON THE FREEWAY AND ROAD THE DASH LIGHTS TURN RED AND SAYS DRIVE CAREFULLY THEN 2 SECONDS LATER GOES BA... Read more
SUSPENSION
Apr 17, 2019
Incident date: Apr 4, 2019
THE ABC SUSPENSION SYSTEM FAILS WHILE DRIVING CAUSING SUSPENSION TO LOWER AND VEHICLE IS DIFFICULT TO HANDLE. THE FRONT END IS SPONGY AND DIPS UP AND DOWN. RED WARNING DO NOT DRIVE ILLUMINATES. VERY UNSAFE.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Jan 3, 2019
Incident date: Jun 10, 2011
MERCEDES BENZ 2003 SL 500. IN 2011 WITH 34,000 MILES ON ENGINE, WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY HEARD LOUD NOISE HAD TO PULL OVER QUICKLY BECAUSE FRONT OF CAR DROPPED RUBBING ON TIRES WHICH RESULTED IN ONE BLOWN OUT TIRE AND HAD CAR TOWED TO NEAREST DEALERSHIP, THANK GOD CUZ INNOCENT PEOPLE OR MYSELF COUL... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Jan 3, 2019
Incident date: Jun 10, 2011
MERCEDES BENZ 2003 SL 500. IN 2011 WITH 34,000 MILES ON ENGINE, WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY HEARD LOUD NOISE HAD TO PULL OVER QUICKLY BECAUSE FRONT OF CAR DROPPED RUBBING ON TIRES WHICH RESULTED IN ONE BLOWN OUT TIRE AND HAD CAR TOWED TO NEAREST DEALERSHIP, THANK GOD CUZ INNOCENT PEOPLE OR MYSELF COUL... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jan 3, 2019
Incident date: Jun 10, 2011
MERCEDES BENZ 2003 SL 500. IN 2011 WITH 34,000 MILES ON ENGINE, WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY HEARD LOUD NOISE HAD TO PULL OVER QUICKLY BECAUSE FRONT OF CAR DROPPED RUBBING ON TIRES WHICH RESULTED IN ONE BLOWN OUT TIRE AND HAD CAR TOWED TO NEAREST DEALERSHIP, THANK GOD CUZ INNOCENT PEOPLE OR MYSELF COUL... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jan 8, 2018
Incident date: Jan 1, 2015
ABC AND CONVERTIBLE ARE NOT FUNCTIONING AS ITS SUPPOSED, WHILE THE CAR NOT BENN DRING NOR USING THE FEATURES. THE KEYLESS REMOTE KEY ENTRY IS NOT WORKING!
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Jan 8, 2018
Incident date: Jan 1, 2015
ABC AND CONVERTIBLE ARE NOT FUNCTIONING AS ITS SUPPOSED, WHILE THE CAR NOT BENN DRING NOR USING THE FEATURES. THE KEYLESS REMOTE KEY ENTRY IS NOT WORKING!
SUSPENSION
Jan 8, 2018
Incident date: Jan 1, 2015
ABC AND CONVERTIBLE ARE NOT FUNCTIONING AS ITS SUPPOSED, WHILE THE CAR NOT BENN DRING NOR USING THE FEATURES. THE KEYLESS REMOTE KEY ENTRY IS NOT WORKING!
SUSPENSION
Dec 28, 2017
Incident date: Nov 1, 2017
ABS PROBLEM MY CAR WONT GO UP OR DOWN IT IS IN THE DOWN POSITION ABS LIGHT IS ON DON T NO WHAT PROBLEM IS I BELIEVE THAT THERE IS A RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM.
SERVICE BRAKES
Sep 16, 2017
Incident date: Sep 11, 2017
WHILE DRIVING MY MERCEDES BENZ 2003 SL500 THE BRAKES BECAME DISABLED WITHOUT WARNING. IT WAS A TERRIFYING EXPERIENCE. THE FIRST MERCEDES DEALER I PHONED TOLD ME THAT THERE WAS NO KNOWN SAFETY RECALLS FOR THE BRAKES. THE SECOND MERCEDES DEALER THAT I CONTACTED INFORMED ME ABOUT 2 RECALLS IN 2004 AND... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Mar 29, 2017
Incident date: Mar 29, 2017
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR IN TOWN ON CITY STREETS THE SBS BRAKE SYSTEM FAILED AS I CAME TO A TURN LEAVING ME WITH NO BRAKE RESPONSE EVEN THOUGH THE DEALER SAYS IT WAS SUPPOSED TO HAVE HYDRAULIC BACK-UP TO STOP THE CAR. I WAS ABLE TO COAST AND STOP THE CAR ONLY WITH THE EMERGENCY HAND BRAKE. THE SBS SYS... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jan 5, 2017
Incident date: Jan 5, 2017
I OWN A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL 500 AND REPLACED THE HYDRAULIC PUMP IN 2014 FOR $6400.00. THE CAR WOULD DROP LOW (ON ONE SIDE IF PARKED FOR A FEW HOURS). TODAY, JANUARY 5, 2017 - THE IDENTICAL PROBLEM HAPPENED AGAIN. WHILE DRIVING, I HEARD A LOUD BURSTING SOUND AND THEN HYDRAULIC FLUID BEGAN SEEPIN... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Jan 5, 2017
Incident date: Jan 5, 2017
I OWN A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL 500 AND REPLACED THE HYDRAULIC PUMP IN 2014 FOR $6400.00. THE CAR WOULD DROP LOW (ON ONE SIDE IF PARKED FOR A FEW HOURS). TODAY, JANUARY 5, 2017 - THE IDENTICAL PROBLEM HAPPENED AGAIN. WHILE DRIVING, I HEARD A LOUD BURSTING SOUND AND THEN HYDRAULIC FLUID BEGAN SEEPIN... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Dec 19, 2016
Incident date: Oct 10, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SL500. WHILE DRIVING INTO THE GARAGE, THE ABC PUMP WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT NOTICED A LARGE AMOUNT OF HYDRAULIC FLUID ON THE GARAGE FLOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE... Read more
Fire
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Dec 19, 2016
Incident date: Oct 10, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SL500. WHILE DRIVING INTO THE GARAGE, THE ABC PUMP WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT NOTICED A LARGE AMOUNT OF HYDRAULIC FLUID ON THE GARAGE FLOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE... Read more
Fire
STEERING
Dec 19, 2016
Incident date: Oct 10, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SL500. WHILE DRIVING INTO THE GARAGE, THE ABC PUMP WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT NOTICED A LARGE AMOUNT OF HYDRAULIC FLUID ON THE GARAGE FLOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE... Read more
Fire
SUSPENSION
Dec 19, 2016
Incident date: Oct 10, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SL500. WHILE DRIVING INTO THE GARAGE, THE ABC PUMP WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT NOTICED A LARGE AMOUNT OF HYDRAULIC FLUID ON THE GARAGE FLOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE... Read more
Fire
SUSPENSION
Oct 31, 2016
Incident date: Jul 9, 2015
SUSPENSION DROPS OVERNIGHT AND HAS DROPPED WHILE IN MOTION ON THE EXPRESSWAY. RED WARNING TO LIMIT SPEED CONSTANTLY COMES ON ESPECIALLY IF LOW ON FLUID AND ON BUMPS. THE DEALER CANNOT ISOLATE THE CAUSE OF PRESSURE OR EXCESSIVE HYDRAULIC FLUID LEAKS. FRONT BUMPER DAMAGED AS A RESULT. OVER $8000.00 S... Read more
AIR BAGS
Oct 31, 2016
Incident date: Jul 9, 2015
SUSPENSION DROPS OVERNIGHT AND HAS DROPPED WHILE IN MOTION ON THE EXPRESSWAY. RED WARNING TO LIMIT SPEED CONSTANTLY COMES ON ESPECIALLY IF LOW ON FLUID AND ON BUMPS. THE DEALER CANNOT ISOLATE THE CAUSE OF PRESSURE OR EXCESSIVE HYDRAULIC FLUID LEAKS. FRONT BUMPER DAMAGED AS A RESULT. OVER $8000.00 S... Read more
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Oct 31, 2016
Incident date: Jul 9, 2015
SUSPENSION DROPS OVERNIGHT AND HAS DROPPED WHILE IN MOTION ON THE EXPRESSWAY. RED WARNING TO LIMIT SPEED CONSTANTLY COMES ON ESPECIALLY IF LOW ON FLUID AND ON BUMPS. THE DEALER CANNOT ISOLATE THE CAUSE OF PRESSURE OR EXCESSIVE HYDRAULIC FLUID LEAKS. FRONT BUMPER DAMAGED AS A RESULT. OVER $8000.00 S... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
May 16, 2016
Incident date: Jan 5, 2016
HERE A BANGING NOISE BEHIND THE SEAT, TOOK IT TO A MERCEDES BENZ REPAIR SHOP. THEY INFORMED ME THE FUEL TANK BAFFLE IS BROKEN FREE. HE SAID IT IS VERY COMMON ON THIS MODEL. BUT NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY OR RECALL. IT WOULD CONT ME OVER 2,500.00 TO REPAIR. DOING SOME RESEARCH ONLINE AT MBWORLD FORUM... Read more
SUSPENSION
May 9, 2016
Incident date: May 1, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SL500. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE AS IT LOWERED TO THE GROUND. A "TOO LOW TO DRIVE" MESSAGE DISPLAYED ACROSS THE MESSAGE BOARD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE ACC... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
May 3, 2016
Incident date: May 1, 2016
I WAS DRIVING AN 03 SL500 AND FROM THE START THE BATTERY LIGHT (WHITE STAYED ON) REPLACED BOTH FRONT AND BACK BATTERY AND VOLTAGE REGULATOR, NOW THE RED BATTERY LIGHT IS ON AND STAYS ON. ON LAST NIGHT, WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, I HEARD A POP, CAR DROPPED AND WARNING CAME ON SAYING CAR WAS TOO ... Read more
SUSPENSION
May 3, 2016
Incident date: May 1, 2016
I WAS DRIVING AN 03 SL500 AND FROM THE START THE BATTERY LIGHT (WHITE STAYED ON) REPLACED BOTH FRONT AND BACK BATTERY AND VOLTAGE REGULATOR, NOW THE RED BATTERY LIGHT IS ON AND STAYS ON. ON LAST NIGHT, WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, I HEARD A POP, CAR DROPPED AND WARNING CAME ON SAYING CAR WAS TOO ... Read more
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
May 3, 2016
Incident date: May 1, 2016
I WAS DRIVING AN 03 SL500 AND FROM THE START THE BATTERY LIGHT (WHITE STAYED ON) REPLACED BOTH FRONT AND BACK BATTERY AND VOLTAGE REGULATOR, NOW THE RED BATTERY LIGHT IS ON AND STAYS ON. ON LAST NIGHT, WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, I HEARD A POP, CAR DROPPED AND WARNING CAME ON SAYING CAR WAS TOO ... Read more
ENGINE
Dec 23, 2015
Incident date: Dec 18, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, SHE SMELLED SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ABC AND STOP VEHICLE TOO LOW WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE STARTED... Read more
Fire
SUSPENSION
Dec 23, 2015
Incident date: Dec 18, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, SHE SMELLED SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ABC AND STOP VEHICLE TOO LOW WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE STARTED... Read more
Fire
SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 23, 2015
Incident date: Dec 18, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, SHE SMELLED SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ABC AND STOP VEHICLE TOO LOW WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE STARTED... Read more
Fire
SUSPENSION
Dec 18, 2015
Incident date: Dec 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH, THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE LOWERED AND LEAKED FLUIDS AS THE ABS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE ... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 18, 2015
Incident date: Dec 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH, THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE LOWERED AND LEAKED FLUIDS AS THE ABS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Nov 17, 2015
Incident date: Nov 13, 2015
DRIVING ALONG THE FREEWAY AT 65 MPH WHEN THE WHOLE FRONT LEFT SIDE DROPS TO WITHIN INCHES OFF THE GROUND!! MERCEDES IS WELL AWARE OF THIS LEMON FEATURE ON THERE VEHICLE AND IS SOME HOW STILL ALLOWED TO SELL THEM IN THE US, MUCH LESS NOT DO A [XXX]THING ABOUT THE LEMONS THEY HAVE SOLD. INFORMATION... Read more
STEERING
Nov 17, 2015
Incident date: Nov 13, 2015
DRIVING ALONG THE FREEWAY AT 65 MPH WHEN THE WHOLE FRONT LEFT SIDE DROPS TO WITHIN INCHES OFF THE GROUND!! MERCEDES IS WELL AWARE OF THIS LEMON FEATURE ON THERE VEHICLE AND IS SOME HOW STILL ALLOWED TO SELL THEM IN THE US, MUCH LESS NOT DO A [XXX]THING ABOUT THE LEMONS THEY HAVE SOLD. INFORMATION... Read more
SUSPENSION
Nov 4, 2015
Incident date: Nov 3, 2015
THIS CAR HAS HAD ABC PROBLEMS FROM DAY ONE. FIRST WE HAD HYDRAULIC LEAKS, WE REPLACED STRUTS, THEN THE PUMP WENT OUT AND HAD TO REPLACE THAT. NOW THE CAR LOWERS ON IT'S OWN WHEN EVER IT FEELS LIKE IT. IF I PARK THE CAR IT LOWERS AND WHEN I REVERSE THE LOW FRONT END WILL GET TRAPPED AND DRAG, NOW THE... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Oct 23, 2015
Incident date: Oct 20, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, AN ABNORMAL NOISE COULD BE HEARD IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BAFFLE IN THE FUEL TAKE FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRE... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 15, 2015
Incident date: Oct 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ SL500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TURNING ON THE VEHICLE, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND OTHER UNKNOWN ELECTRICAL FUNCTIONS FAILED TO OPERATE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Oct 6, 2015
Incident date: Sep 1, 2015
I HAVE A 2003 MERCEDES SL500 WITH 52000 MILES ON IT AND SUDDENLY THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT CAME UP AND THE INVESTIGATION LINKED IT TO THE SBC HYDRAULIC RECALL (2005070007). MERCEDES HAD EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON SBS UNIT FOR 10 YEARS AND MY CAR IS NOW OUT OF THAT EXTENDED WARRANTY PERIOD. THE SBC ISSUE... Read more
Showing 50 of 108 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy — 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SL500
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0L 8-cyl, Automatic 5-spd (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 14.0 | 20.0 | 16.0 | Premium | $5,100 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Two Seaters)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins — 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ SL500
42 manufacturer communications from 25 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 3 |
| 100000 POWER TRAIN | 3 |
| 103300 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL) | 2 |
| 220000 SEATS | 2 |
| 010000 STEERING | 2 |
| 020000 SUSPENSION | 2 |
| 353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL | 2 |
| 199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS | 1 |
LI91.18-P-077075
Dec 4, 2023
220000 SEATS
Crease formation on genuine leather seat covers in vehicles with low mileage ??A?A? Objects left on the seats for extended periods of time (pressure marks). ??A?A? Objects wedged between the seat backrest and seat cushion (e.g. seat bel
LI4015P073743
Oct 20, 2021
199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
Tire Pressure Sensors.
LI27.50-P-071658
Sep 30, 2020
100000 POWER TRAIN
Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D or R
LI27.50-P-049281
Sep 22, 2020
103300 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D
LI05 20-P-067123
Oct 9, 2017
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Oil in engine wiring harness
LI82.70-P-060004
Oct 14, 2014
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
iPhone mobile phone: Various complaints after software update to iOS8
LI27.00-P-051451
Jul 14, 2014
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Shift quality complaints on TRANSMISSION 722.9 (7G-TRONIC and 7G-TRONIC PLUS)
LI91.29-P-059366
Jul 10, 2014
220000 SEATS
The electrical wiring harness is trapped between the height adjustment gearing and the cushion frame.
LI91.29-P-059366
Jul 10, 2014
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The electrical wiring harness is trapped between the height adjustment gearing and the cushion frame.
LI27.55-P-058976
Jul 10, 2014
100000 POWER TRAIN
Possible minor leakage at described components or oil transfer from assembly plant.
LI42.10-P-058535
Feb 21, 2014
020000 SUSPENSION
The noise comes from the front axle. Vehicles without code B07 (AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system)
LI46.15-P-057157
Feb 20, 2014
010000 STEERING
Height adjustment of electric steering column adjustment is nonfunctional.
LI27.00-P-056643
Feb 19, 2014
100000 POWER TRAIN
During disengagement from D to N and/or from R to N some slight jolting could be experienced.
C1A140101
Feb 11, 2014
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
This 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
GI88.40-P-057430
Feb 3, 2014
350000 EQUIPMENT
Message in instrument cluster "DISTRONIC PLUSCurrently Unavailable - See Owner's Manual"
LI27.00-P-056643
Jul 12, 2013
103300 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
During disengagement from D to N and/or from R to N some slight jolting could be experienced.
40-P-052794
Apr 20, 2012
150000 SEAT BELTS
MERCEDES 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. *JS
LI-58-40
Dec 16, 2009
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
XENTRY (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 LI
LI-58-40
Dec 16, 2009
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
XENTRY (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 LI
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034520 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:PADS
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034530 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034100 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034200 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034300 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DIFFERENTIAL PROPORTIONAL VALVE
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034410 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM:WHEEL CYLINDERS
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034420 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM:SHOES/LININGS
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034430 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM:DRUM
MERCEDES: 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 AN
TSB-42-10-109
Jun 15, 2009
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
MERCEDES: 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 AN
470036
May 1, 2009
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
MERCEDES: 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 IN
470036
May 1, 2009
091200 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:FUEL GAUGE SYSTEM
MERCEDES: 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 IN
PB-91-60-189
Mar 31, 2009
141000 AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
MERCEDES: 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. *PE
325029
Mar 31, 2009
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ABC VISIT WORKSHOP DISPLAYED IN INSTRUMENT CLUSTER AND HYDRAULIC FLUID LEAKAGE. *TT UPDATED 5/14/09. MODELS 215, 220 AND 230. MODEL YEARS UNKNOWN. *PE
PB-46-20-16E
Feb 27, 2009
013000 STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
MERCEDES: 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 2
PB-46-20-16E
Feb 27, 2009
010000 STEERING
MERCEDES: 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 2
PB-82-10-376F
Feb 6, 2009
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
MERCEDES 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. *PE
PB-42-46-102
Dec 19, 2008
040000 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
MERCEDES: VEHICLE FAILS STAR DIAGNOSIS TEST; INSPECT BRAKE SYSTEM FOR AIR." MODELS 230, 219, AND 211. MODEL YEARS 2003-2009. *PE
PB-42-46-102
Dec 19, 2008
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
MERCEDES: VEHICLE FAILS STAR DIAGNOSIS TEST; INSPECT BRAKE SYSTEM FOR AIR." MODELS 230, 219, AND 211. MODEL YEARS 2003-2009. *PE
PB-32-50-35C
Feb 22, 2008
020000 SUSPENSION
MERCEDES: 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.
322546
Feb 5, 2007
021244 SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:U-BOLT, LEAF SPRING TO AXLE
KNOCKING NOISE FROM THE FRONT AXLE AREA. *KB
MERCEDES-BENZ SL500 — All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the MERCEDES-BENZ SL500 across all model years (1992–2001).
11
Total Recalls
311
Total Complaints
0
Investigations
12
Reported Crashes
29
Reported Fires
2
Reported Deaths
MERCEDES-BENZ SL500 — Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.