2007 Mercedes-Benz SL600

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL600 is a luxurious grand touring roadster equipped with a powerful V12 engine. Other engine options available for the 2007 SL-Class include a V6 in the SL350 (not available in the US), a V8 in the SL500/SL550, and a supercharged V8 in the SL55 AMG. The SL600 boasts a 5.5L Bi-Turbo V12 engine producing 510 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise its luxurious appointments, potent engine, and comfortable ride. Common complaints revolve around high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and the potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

5.5L Bi-Turbo V12 (M275)

• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, check engine light. Often triggered by heat and age, leading to cracking and failure of the coil packs.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty coil packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per coil pack (replacement typically done in pairs or all at once).
• ABC (Active Body Control) Pump Failure (Shared with Suspension)
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power steering assist, suspension malfunctions, ABC warning light. The ABC system pump is responsible for maintaining hydraulic pressure for both the suspension and power steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ABC pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, burning oil smell, low oil levels. Due to high heat and age, the valve cover gaskets can dry out and crack, causing oil leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Turbocharger Issues (Boost Leaks, Failure)
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, decreased fuel economy, whistling noises, check engine light. The turbochargers are prone to failure due to wear and tear and the high temperatures they endure.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to find specific issue with turbocharger, replace turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, limp mode, failure to shift, check engine light with transmission-related codes. The conductor plate houses the transmission’s electronic control unit and sensors, and it’s a known weak point.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and potentially the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping, delayed engagement. The valve body controls hydraulic pressure to the transmission’s clutches and bands, and wear or contamination can cause malfunctions.
  • Solution: Valve body rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) Strut Leaks/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, bouncy ride, ABC warning light. The ABC struts use hydraulic fluid to control the suspension, and they are prone to leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking or failed ABC struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut.
• ABC (Active Body Control) System Hoses
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking Hydraulic Fluid.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ABC System Hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, including lighting issues, window problems, and starting problems. The SAM modules control many of the car’s electrical functions, and they are susceptible to damage from water intrusion or electrical surges.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting, electrical malfunctions. The SL600 has complex electronics that can sometimes cause excessive battery drain.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain, battery replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain).
• Convertible Top Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Top not opening or closing correctly, error messages, hydraulic leaks. The convertible top mechanism is complex and prone to problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the top mechanism, hydraulic system, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the severity of the problem).

Exterior

• Convertible Top Hydraulic Cylinder Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Top malfunctions, visible fluid leaks near the top mechanism.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking hydraulic cylinders.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per cylinder.
• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight housing or resealing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Interior

• COMAND System Issues (Navigation, Radio, Display)
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen malfunctions, failure to boot, unresponsive buttons, GPS problems. The COMAND system is complex and can be prone to failures.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat not adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Recalls: None Found

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL600, while offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience, is known for its potential for costly repairs. The ABC suspension system and electrical components are particularly troublesome. Engine and transmission issues, while not universally experienced, can also result in significant expenses. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.