2015 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG is a high-performance roadster that boasts a handcrafted 6.0L twin-turbo V12 engine, producing 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2015 SL-Class include the SL400’s 3.0L twin-turbo V6, the SL550’s 4.7L twin-turbo V8, and the SL63 AMG’s 5.5L twin-turbo V8. All engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the SL65 AMG for its exhilarating power, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride, but some find the running costs and complexity of the vehicle to be drawbacks.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbo V12 (M279)

• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per coil pack.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover, Oil Pan)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the leak location and complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues (Boost Leaks, Failure)
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, whistling or unusual noises from the engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace turbocharger. May involve replacing associated hoses and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ per turbocharger.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic - 722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, getting stuck in gear, transmission malfunction warning.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, unusual noises from the transmission, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, uneven ride height, ABC warning light.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace leaking struts, hoses, or pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the pump, stiff ride, ABC warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the ABC pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drain on the electrical system. Common causes include faulty modules, relays, or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions including lighting problems, wipers not working, or issues with other electronic components.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty SAM unit and program it to the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Top failing to open or close, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair hydraulic system, sensors, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on the complexity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Hydraulic System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks near the convertible top mechanism, slow or erratic top operation.
  • Solution: Replace hydraulic lines or cylinders, or rebuild the pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen flickering, system freezing, navigation problems, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG, while offering incredible performance and luxury, can be prone to certain issues. The most significant problems revolve around the engine (coil packs, oil leaks, turbochargers), transmission (valve body, torque converter), and the complex ABC suspension system (leaks, pump failure). Electrical issues and convertible top malfunctions are also reported. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for more complex repairs, especially those related to the engine, transmission, and ABC system. These potential issues highlight the importance of thorough inspection and maintenance to ensure the reliability of this high-performance vehicle.