2020 Mercedes-Benz SL450

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL450 is a luxury roadster that offers an opulent driving experience. It is powered by a 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine that produces 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its premium status, the SL450 has not been without its share of problems. Owners have reported various issues ranging from engine and transmission concerns to electrical and interior problems.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, decreased fuel economy, excessive smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, check engine light illumination
  • Solution: Replace fuel injector(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic

• Hesitation and Jerking during Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: Sporadic hesitation or jerking when shifting gears
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush, or transmission replacement in severe cases
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid pooling under the vehicle, check engine light illumination
  • Solution: Replace leaking seal or gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to adjust ride height, excessive bouncing or sagging
  • Solution: Replace air suspension compressor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mount bearing
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical System Overheating
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, loss of electrical components (e.g., headlights, dashboard lights)
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair faulty electrical components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting the vehicle
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic battery drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Roof Mechanism Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to open or close the convertible roof, grinding or screeching noises
  • Solution: Repair or replace roof motor, sensors, or wiring
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Trim Panel Peeling
  • Description/Symptoms: Trim panel on the center console separates or peels away
  • Solution: Replace trim panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Other Issues

• Check Engine Light Illumination
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine warning light illuminates on the dashboard
  • Solution: Requires professional diagnosis to determine the underlying cause
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL450 is a capable luxury roadster but has been known to experience various issues. Some of these concerns, such as turbocharger failure and transmission problems, are significant and can be expensive to repair. However, other issues, like interior trim peeling and electrical system overheating, are less severe and more common among luxury vehicles.

Overall, while the SL450 offers an enjoyable driving experience, it is important to be aware of its potential issues and associated costs before making a purchase decision.