2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a high-performance sports car with a powerful engine and sleek exterior. It is offered with a 6.2L V8 engine that produces 563 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The SLS AMG is known for its impressive acceleration and handling, but it has also been reported to have some potential issues.

Engine

6.2L V8 Engine

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Loss of engine power, rough idling, and rattling noises. Requires replacement of the timing chain tensioner. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Cylinder Head Bolt Failure: Coolant leaks and engine overheating. Requires replacement of the cylinder head bolts. Estimated cost to fix: $5,000 - $7,000+
• Intake Manifold Actuator Failure: Reduced engine performance and rough idling. Requires replacement of the intake manifold actuator motor. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• Fuel Injector Failure: Engine misfires and reduced fuel economy. Requires replacement of the fuel injector(s). Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500+ each

Transmission

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Clutch Pack Failure: Slipping or shuddering during gear changes, loss of power. Requires replacement of the clutch pack. Estimated cost to fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
• Mechatronic Unit Failure: Hard or delayed gear changes, transmission overheating. Requires replacement of the mechatronic unit. Estimated cost to fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
• Shifter Cable Failure: Difficulty shifting gears, shifting into neutral while driving. Requires replacement of the shifter cable. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Front Suspension Control Arm Bushing Failure: Squeaking or rattling noises from the front suspension, reduced handling performance. Requires replacement of the control arm bushing(s). Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $700+ per side
• Rear Suspension Trailing Arm Bushing Failure: Similar symptoms as front control arm bushing failure. Requires replacement of the trailing arm bushing(s). Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500+ per side

Electrical

• Battery Drain: Battery discharges quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use. Requires diagnosis and repair of the source of the battery drain. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Command System Malfunction: Touchpad and navigation issues, software glitches. Requires software updates or replacement of the Command system. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
• Adaptive Headlight Failure: Malfunctioning adaptive headlights, poor nighttime visibility. Requires repair or replacement of the adaptive headlight system. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Exterior

• Carbon Fiber Spoiler Detachment: Spoilers made of carbon fiber are prone to detaching at high speeds. Requires reattachment or replacement of the spoiler. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Interior

• Door Handle Failure: Door handles sticking or breaking, difficulty opening doors. Requires replacement of the door handle(s). Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $700+ each
• Dashboard Trim Rattling: Dashboard trim pieces rattling or vibrating while driving, causing noise. Requires disassembly of the dashboard and repair or replacement of the trim. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Infotainment Screen Glitch: Occasional flickering or freezing of the infotainment screen. Requires software updates or replacement of the screen. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+

Recalls

• NHTSA Campaign Number: 20S53
  • Description: Limited visibility due to incorrect windshield wiper arm installation, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Solution: Wiper arm replacement
• NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V825
  • Description: Instrument cluster malfunction, including speedometer and fuel gauge issues, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Solution: Software update or instrument cluster replacement

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has received mixed reviews, with owners praising its performance and handling but also expressing concerns about its reliability. While some issues may be minor and easily resolved, others can be more costly and require significant repairs. Potential buyers should carefully consider these issues and factor in the potential costs before purchasing an SLS AMG. The severity and cost of the issues mentioned above vary depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.