2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a hand-built, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive grand tourer coupe and roadster. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 563 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The SLS AMG is celebrated for its iconic gullwing doors (on the coupe), powerful engine, and distinctive styling. Some owners find the ride quality stiff and the running costs high, typical of a high-performance vehicle.

Engine

6.2L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front timing cover. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the source of the leak.
• Camshaft Adjuster (Cam Phaser) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report issues with the camshaft adjusters, resulting in rough idling, misfires, and potential loss of power. This can be due to wear or oil supply issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft adjusters and addressing any underlying oil supply problems.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+ depending on the extent of the damage.

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

• Harsh Shifting/Clunking
  • Description/Symptoms: The 7-speed DCT can exhibit harsh shifting, particularly at lower speeds, and a noticeable clunking sound during gear changes.
  • Solution: Software updates, transmission adaptation resets, or in some cases, replacement of solenoids or clutch packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 for software and adaptation, $1000 - $4000+ for internal repairs.
• Transmission Control Unit (TCU) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: TCU failure can lead to erratic shifting, limp mode, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some SLS AMG models are equipped with adaptive dampers, which can experience failures. Symptoms include a harsh or bouncy ride, error messages on the dashboard, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ per damper.

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report issues with excessive battery drain, especially when the car is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing parasitic draws, replacing the battery, or using a battery tender.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause.
• Gullwing Door Actuator Problems (Coupe Only)
  • Description/Symptoms: The hydraulic actuators that control the gullwing doors can sometimes fail, leading to difficulties opening or closing the doors. This can manifest as slow movement, unusual noises, or complete failure of the door mechanism.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty actuator or hydraulic pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ per door.

Exterior

• Gullwing Door Alignment (Coupe Only)
  • Description/Symptoms: Due to the complex hinge mechanism, the gullwing doors can sometimes misalign, causing rubbing or difficulty closing.
  • Solution: Adjustment of the door hinges and latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the severity.

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or failure of the navigation system.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+

Recalls:

• NHTSA Recall Number: 13V-584
  • Description: Certain 2012 SLS AMG vehicles, equipped with Continental tires, have a tire pressure monitoring system that was improperly calibrated which could result in a failure to warn the driver of low tire pressure, which could lead to a tire failure and a crash.

Summary:

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a desirable performance car. However, potential owners should be aware of the common issues. Engine oil leaks and camshaft adjuster problems can be costly to repair, and transmission issues are also a concern. Electrical gremlins and suspension problems can add to the ownership costs. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying widely depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.