2016 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG
Introduction
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG is a high-performance sports car powered by a mighty 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine. With a staggering 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, this beast can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.9 seconds. Other engine and transmission options for the SL-Class include a 3.0-liter V6 with 362 horsepower, a 4.7-liter V8 with 449 horsepower, and a 5.5-liter V8 with 577 horsepower. All models come standard with a 7-speed automatic transmission.
Owners appreciate the SL65 AMG’s blistering acceleration, luxurious interior, and stunning design. However, it’s not without its flaws.
Engine
6.0-liter V12 Bi-Turbo
- Turbocharger failure: The turbochargers on the 6.0-liter V12 have been known to fail prematurely, resulting in a loss of power and potential engine damage. Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, whistling noises from the engine bay, check engine light Solution: Replace faulty turbochargers Estimated Cost to Fix: $5000 - $10,000+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7-Speed Automatic
- Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip or hesitate during gear changes, causing rough shifts or loss of power. Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed gear changes, loss of power Solution: Rebuilt or replace the transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air suspension failure: The air suspension system can fail, resulting in a loss of ride height and handling performance. Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride height, excessive body roll, check engine light Solution: Replace faulty air suspension components Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery drain: The battery may drain excessively, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle. Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting Solution: Replace faulty battery or diagnose and repair electrical drain Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight condensation: The headlights may develop condensation or fog inside the lenses. Description/Symptoms: Fog or water droplets inside the headlight lenses Solution: Replace faulty headlight seals or lenses Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500 per headlight Recalls: None Found
Interior
Navigation system malfunction: The navigation system may malfunction or freeze intermittently. Description/Symptoms: Inability to use navigation, frozen screen Solution: Update or replace the navigation system Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ Recalls: None Found
Power seat failure: The power seats may fail to adjust or move properly. Description/Symptoms: Difficulty adjusting seats, seats stuck in one position Solution: Replace faulty seat motors or control switches Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG is a remarkable sports car with breathtaking performance. However, it is not immune to potential issues that can be costly to repair. Turbocharger failures, transmission slipping, and suspension problems are among the most significant concerns reported by owners. Electrical issues, exterior headlight condensation, and interior navigation system malfunctions also occur. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, so it’s essential to consider them when weighing the pros and cons of this high-performance vehicle.