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2003 Mercedes-Benz SL600

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL600 is a luxurious roadster known for its powerful V12 engine, retractable hardtop, and sophisticated features. Other engine options available in the SL range for that year included the SL500 with a V8 engine and the SL55 AMG with a supercharged V8. The SL600 boasts a 5.8L V12 engine producing around 362 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Owners often appreciate the smooth ride, powerful engine, and iconic styling. Downsides often mentioned include high maintenance costs, complex electronics prone to failure, and the car’s age which can lead to increased repair needs.

Engine

5.8L V12 (M137)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from various seals and gaskets, including valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket. Visible oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level are typical symptoms.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coil Pack Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and a noticeable decrease in power. A check engine light will often illuminate.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack(s). It is often recommended to replace all coil packs at the same time.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per coil pack, depending on the brand and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Hydraulic Hose Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Hydraulic hose failure from the pump to the valve block is common. This causes the ABC to malfunction.
    • Solution: Replace hydraulic hose.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause slipping.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, or failure to shift at all.
    • Solution: Rebuilding or replacing the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Active Body Control (ABC) System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The ABC system is prone to problems, including leaks in the hydraulic lines, pump failure, and strut issues. This can lead to a rough ride, sagging suspension, and warning lights on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replacing faulty components, such as the ABC pump, struts, or hydraulic lines. Flushing the ABC fluid regularly can help prevent issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ per component, depending on what needs to be replaced. Complete system overhauls can be very expensive.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • ABC Strut Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaking from strut. Sagging on that corner
    • Solution: Replace strut.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Electronic Control Module (ECU) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Various engine performance issues, transmission problems, and other electrical malfunctions can stem from a failing ECU.
    • Solution: Replacing or reprogramming the ECU.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The car’s complex electronics can lead to a parasitic battery drain, causing the battery to die overnight or after a few days of sitting.
    • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the drain, which could be a faulty module, relay, or wiring issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Central Locking System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the central locking system to properly lock or unlock doors.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Convertible Top Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Retractable top gets stuck while going up or down, or failure to operate at all.
    • Solution: Replacing the hydraulic pump, hydraulic cylinders, or sensors related to the top.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Convertible Top Seal Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the convertible top seals, especially during rain.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Pixelated Display Screens
    • Description/Symptoms: Pixels die on the instrument cluster, navigation system, and radio display screens, making them difficult to read.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected screens or having them repaired.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Control Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Seat controls fail to adjust the seats properly, including issues with lumbar support, headrest adjustment, and seat position.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL600, while offering a luxurious driving experience, is known for its costly and complex maintenance. The most common issues revolve around the ABC suspension, electrical systems, and the aging V12 engine. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others, particularly those related to the ABC system or engine issues, can be very expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in higher maintenance costs when considering this vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz, SL600
Mercedes-Benz SL600 2003
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