2016 Mercedes-Benz SL500

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL500 is a luxurious roadster known for its elegant styling, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. The SL500 is equipped with a 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2016 SL Class include the SL400 (3.0L Turbo V6) and the SL63 AMG (5.5L Turbo V8). All engines were paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the SL500 for its performance, comfortable interior, and retractable hardtop. However, some common complaints include electrical issues and high maintenance costs.

Engine

4.7L Twin-Turbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is the typical solution. The source of the leak must be identified first.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Wastegate issues and leaks. Diminished power, whistling noises from engine bay.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding turbochargers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic (9G-Tronic)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during shifts, jerking, or clunking sounds during gear changes. Can worsen over time.
  • Solution: Often addressed by a transmission flush and software update. In severe cases, valve body replacement or full transmission rebuild/replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (flush/update) - $6000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Can lead to transmission slipping and eventual failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABC system can experience leaks in the hydraulic lines and struts, leading to uneven ride height, sagging suspension, and warning lights on the dashboard. Noises while driving and a stiff ride are also common.
  • Solution: Replacing leaking lines, struts, or the pump. System flush is often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ per strut/line.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain quickly, especially if the car is not driven frequently. This can be caused by a faulty module or a parasitic drain.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the drain. This may involve replacing a faulty module or fixing a wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (infotainment) can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The retractable hardtop can experience issues with its operation, including getting stuck, slow movement, or failing to open or close. Can be related to hydraulic pump or sensors.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of hydraulic pump, sensors, or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin around the seals of the retractable hardtop, especially during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Replacing or adjusting the seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the seat adjustment motors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty motor or the entire seat assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL500 offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of potential issues. The most commonly reported problems involve electrical malfunctions, hydraulic system leaks, and potential transmission problems. These issues can range from relatively minor fixes to costly repairs, particularly concerning the ABC suspension and the transmission. Due to the complexity of the vehicle and its components, repairs generally need to be performed by a qualified technician.