2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG is a high-performance roadster equipped with a hand-built 6.0L twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 604 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. It was only available with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Known for its incredible power and luxurious features, some owners have cited its complex systems and associated maintenance costs as drawbacks. Other issues found with the vehicle is the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbocharged V12 (M275)

• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by heat and age.
  • Solution: Replace faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per coil pack (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power steering, suspension malfunctions, and warning lights. The ABC system relies on hydraulic pressure, and pump failure is relatively common.
  • Solution: Replace the ABC pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling sound from the engine bay, check engine light. Can be caused by worn turbo seals or other internal damage.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common areas for leaks include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and turbocharger oil lines.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, transmission slipping, limp mode. The conductor plate houses the transmission’s sensors and can fail over time.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement, transmission slipping. Wear and tear or contamination can cause valve body malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• ABC Strut Leaks/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, bouncing ride, warning lights. The ABC struts are prone to leaks and can fail over time.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABC strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ per strut (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC System Hoses
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid Leaks
  • Solution: Replace cracked and leaking hoses
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ depending on the severity and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, including lighting issues, window problems, and sensor errors. The SAM controls many of the car’s electrical functions.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty SAM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car. Can be caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module or other electrical component.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the convertible top to open or close.
  • Solution: Repair or replace hydraulic cylinders, hoses, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Hydraulic System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking hydraulic fluid, slow or non-functional convertible top operation.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the leaking hydraulic components (cylinders, hoses, pump).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG, while offering exceptional performance, is known for its potential for expensive repairs. The ABC suspension system, in particular, is a source of many common issues. Engine and transmission problems can also be costly to address. Electrical issues can also cause a lot of issues for the vehicle. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in maintenance costs when considering purchasing this vehicle.