2002 Mercedes-Benz SL600

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL600 is a luxurious roadster boasting a powerful V12 engine. Other engine options for this model year include a 5.0L V8 in the SL500 and a 3.2L V6 in the SL320. The SL600’s 5.8L V12 engine produces 389 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise the car’s smooth ride, luxurious interior, and powerful engine, but some dislike the high maintenance costs and potential for complex repairs. All engine options were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

5.8L V12 (M120)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from various points on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Visible oil puddles under the car and/or burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and complexity.
• Wiring Harness Deterioration
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine wiring harness insulation tends to crumble and crack due to heat exposure. This can lead to short circuits, misfires, and other electrical issues.
  • Solution: Replace the engine wiring harness with an updated version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
• Distributor Cap and Rotor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor cap and rotor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300

5.0L V8 (M113)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the V12, oil leaks can occur from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ depending on location and access.
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, hesitation, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400

3.2L V6 (M112)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal may leak.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on location and access.
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, fails to start, or runs rough.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, slipping, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
• Transmission Fluid Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from the pan gasket, front pump seal, or conductor plate.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, failure to raise or lower, and warning lights. The ABC system is known for being problematic.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue (pump failure, valve block failure, strut leaks, etc.) and replace the faulty components. Flushing the system is also a common recommendation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+ depending on the component. ABC pumps are expensive. ABC strut rebuilds are also an option.
• Suspension Accumulator Sphere Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh ride, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the accumulator spheres.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$1000+

Electrical

• PSE (Pneumatic System Equipment) Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with central locking, trunk release, and seat adjustment.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the PSE pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the instrument cluster display fade or disappear, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
• Convertible Top Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The convertible top may fail to open or close properly due to hydraulic issues, sensor problems, or switch failures.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue and replace the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+

Exterior

• Convertible Top Hydraulic Cylinder Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks in the trunk around the hydraulic pump, top not operating.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the leaking cylinders.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1000+ per cylinder

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL600, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, is prone to several common issues. The ABC suspension system is a major concern, with potentially very high repair costs. Engine and transmission issues, while not always catastrophic, can also be expensive to address. The electrical system is also a potential source of problems. Overall, owning a 2002 SL600 requires a commitment to maintenance and the potential for significant repair bills.