2014 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG is a high-performance roadster boasting a hand-built 6.0L Biturbo V12 engine producing 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2014 SL-Class include the SL550 with a 4.7L Biturbo V8 and the SL63 AMG with a 5.5L Biturbo V8. All models are equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the SL65 AMG for its incredible power, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride, while common criticisms include its high price, complicated electronics, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

6.0L Biturbo V12

• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per coil depending on location and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Leaks are common from valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, and turbocharger oil lines.
  • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise from the engine, smoke from the exhaust. Can be caused by failing turbo seals or wastegate issues.
  • Solution: Repair or replace faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, rough shifting, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, ride height issues, warning lights on the dashboard, fluid leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replace leaking hydraulic lines, accumulators, or the ABC pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, uneven ride height, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ABC strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, electrical malfunctions. Can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty modules, parasitic draws, or a failing alternator.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezing, glitching, or failing to power on.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Top failing to open or close properly, error messages on the dashboard. Often caused by hydraulic pump failures or sensor issues.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the convertible top system, including replacing the hydraulic pump, cylinders, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin during rain or washing the car.
  • Solution: Replace or repair damaged convertible top seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat failing to move in one or more directions, unusual noises from the seat motor.
  • Solution: Replace faulty seat motor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG, while offering exhilarating performance, is prone to a range of issues that can lead to substantial repair costs. Engine issues, particularly related to ignition coils, oil leaks, and turbochargers, are common. Transmission problems such as torque converter and valve body failures can also be costly. The complex ABC suspension system is another potential source of expensive repairs. Electrical issues, including battery drains and COMAND system malfunctions, can add to the overall ownership expenses. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into the cost of ownership. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly.