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2002 Mercedes-Benz SL500

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL500 is a luxury roadster known for its elegant styling, powerful V8 engine, and innovative features like the retractable hardtop. It’s powered by a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the SL lineup for that year include a V6 and a V12 for the SL600. Owners often appreciate the smooth ride, comfortable interior, and robust engine. Some common complaints include the complexity of the electronics, the potential for expensive repairs, and the car’s age, which can lead to increased maintenance needs.

Engine

5.0L V8 (M113)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. These leaks can lead to a burning oil smell and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough running, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the camshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

  • Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in a gear, or a complete loss of drive. A common code associated is P0715.
    • Solution: Replacing the conductor plate and often the transmission fluid and filter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • ABC (Active Body Control) System Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The ABC system is known for its complexity and potential for issues. Common problems include sagging suspension, uneven ride height, leaks from the hydraulic lines and struts, and warning messages on the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the specific issue (leaks, pump failure, strut failure) and replacing the faulty components. This can range from replacing a single hydraulic line to rebuilding the entire system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the severity. Replacing accumulators typically costs around $500-$800. Replacing a strut can cost $1,000-$2,000+. A new pump could be $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Suspension Compressor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The car sits too low, failure to raise, and a noisy or non-functional compressor.
    • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor and ensure the air lines aren’t leaking.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • PSE (Pneumatic System Equipment) Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: This pump controls central locking, trunk assist, and lumbar support. Failure can result in these features not working.
    • Solution: Replacing or repairing the PSE pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Pixelation or complete failure of the instrument cluster display.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Top Control Module Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the convertible top to operate correctly.
    • Solution: Replacing the top control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven regularly. Often traced to a faulty component that is not shutting down correctly, or an aging battery.
    • Solution: Identifying the source of the drain and replacing the faulty component or replacing the battery.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Convertible Top Hydraulic System Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaks in the hydraulic cylinders that operate the convertible top can cause the top to operate slowly or not at all.
    • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the leaking hydraulic cylinders.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on how many cylinders need to be replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Convertible Top Latch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The latches that secure the top to the windshield frame can fail, preventing the top from sealing properly or operating at all.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty latches.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Heater Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters stop working.
    • Solution: Replacing the seat heater element or control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per seat.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL500, while a luxurious and enjoyable vehicle, is prone to certain issues due to its age and complex systems. The ABC suspension, electrical components, and convertible top mechanism are common sources of problems. Repairs can be costly, especially those related to the hydraulic systems and electronic control modules. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for signs of these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering a purchase.

Mercedes-Benz, SL500
Mercedes-Benz SL500 2002
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