2017 Mercedes-Benz SL450

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL450 is a luxury roadster known for its elegant design, retractable hardtop, and comfortable ride. The SL450 is equipped with a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2017 SL models include the SL550 with a 4.7L twin-turbo V8, and the AMG SL63 and SL65 with handcrafted AMG engines. All engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the SL450’s blend of performance and luxury, while some express concerns about its reliability and repair costs.

Engine

3.0L Twin-Turbo V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various seals and gaskets on the engine, leading to oil consumption and potential engine damage. Common areas include valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected seals or gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Potential turbocharger failure, leading to loss of power, unusual noises (whining or whistling), and potentially check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic (9G-Tronic)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting, harsh or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears.
  • Solution: Software update/reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, valve body replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $150-$300. Valve body replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The SL-Class often features an air suspension system. Issues can include air leaks, compressor failure, and ride height malfunctions. The car may sag on one side or fail to maintain proper ride height.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the leaking air struts, the air compressor, or other components of the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, compressor replacement $800-$1500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of the COMAND infotainment system, including screen freezing, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation errors, and audio system glitches.
  • Solution: Software updates, component replacement (screen, head unit).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the car or a completely dead battery. This can be caused by parasitic draws from various electrical components.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Convertible Top Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The complex convertible top mechanism can experience issues, leading to the top not opening or closing properly. This can be due to hydraulic issues, sensor failures, or mechanical problems.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause and replace sensors, hydraulic pump, or fix linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$4000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Convertible Top Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the convertible top seals, especially during heavy rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Replacing or adjusting the convertible top seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per seal.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may stop working or may overheat.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1000+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL450 offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential owners should be aware of the common issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger issues, rough shifting transmission, and electrical malfunctions. Air suspension problems (if equipped) can also be costly. Repair costs for these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major repairs. While not all vehicles will experience these problems, a thorough inspection and maintenance history review are essential before purchasing a used 2017 SL450.