Mercedes-Benz SL-Class problems
0 safety recalls. 18 owner complaints. We mapped every trouble spot before you sign the papers.
Above-average reliability for the segment. Few systemic issues on file.
Top trouble spots 4 categories with 3+ complaints
What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim
Our power steering went out all of a sudden. We took this to our mechanic who said it was a recall for the power steering. Fletcher Jones Mercedes' looked at the vehicle did a computer update recall and said the power steering is not covered. The car is very unsafe and we need…
The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering assist functionality. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the steering…
Cam sensor seals failed which leaked oil into the wire harness, O2 sensors, and ECM. This happens to be a common problem with M278 engine. The repair was $10,217 to fix this issue. The car would not pass emissions without this repair. Could oil into the electrical system…
MY VEHICLE HAS A CAM SEAL LEAK THAT LEAKED OIL INTO THE WIRING HARNESS AND WIRING HARNESS AND OTHER COMPONENTS NEED TO BE REPLACED -- THE BILL IS $10,800 --- THIS CAM SEAL WAS A RECALL ISSUE FOR THE C CLASS AND FROM WHAT I READ SEEMS TO BE THE SAME OR SIMILAR ISSUE --- NOT AN…
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Common questions
Is the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class reliable?
Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 8.6 out of 10 based on 18 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.
What's the most common problem on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is steering, with 5 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $700 at an independent shop.
What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?
The steering is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $700 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.
How do I check if my Mercedes-Benz SL-Class has open recalls?
Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.
Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 18 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $700, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans aren't always better value.