Used 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Consumer Reviews
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POORLY BUILT CAR
HERB, 07/16/2015
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
67 of 68 people found this review helpful
Just sold my 2003 SL 500 Designo had it for 7 years too many trips to the dealer for repairs a car with only 3300 miles had more problems than it should have had for a supposed quality car.Dealer told me don't keep this car without a warrantee at cost of $6800.00 The car lost to much value when sold.This car is a money pit needs expensive repairs every month. Great looking but not reliable stay away.
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Please, stay away!
Chris, 12/04/2015
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
157 of 164 people found this review helpful
Seeing the price of these cars on the used market is a tempting purchase. When everything is working it is overall a fantastic car, fast, good looking, comfortable, etc. HOWEVER: REGARDLESS of what anyone tells you, I doubt there is a more complicated and unreliable car on the market. In under one year, I have spent over $8,000 on unplanned repairs. This is not because the car wasn't maintained, they are just chronically unreliable. Suspension issues, getting stuck in park, trunk leaks, rattles, motor/transmission mounts, supercharger intercooler pump, alarm siren, trunk struts, this is a partial list of the problems that I've had. Most of the reviews on here are overwhelmingly positive, but you need to see the dates - many 10+ years ago when the car was newer. Most recent reviews will attest to my warning: DO NOT LET THE LOOK/DRIVE OF THE CAR TEMPT YOU. The car moved from a "love/hate" relationship to a "mostly hate" relationship after being in the shop at least once a month. Oh, and as a daily driver over 14k miles it has averaged 13.5mpg in the suburbs, but you should know that going in - it costs to go fast. In summary, there is no such thing as a cheap MB SL, you're paying in depreciation or you're paying in maintenance, pick your poison.
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2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class for sale near you
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Electrical Gremlins Abound
Nero, 02/03/2010
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
86 of 90 people found this review helpful
Car has left me stranded and in need of towing 5 times now in 3 years. It has so many electrical problems that no one can figure out, the last time I took it to the dealer for the same thing and spent $3,000 with no real fix. Looks good, is very fast but too heavy to be a real sports car, it drinks gas, and is very unreliable and expensive to own. Another thumbs down for Mercedes' recent product offerings, do you research and you'll find many reports of their shoddy quality in their modern cars.
It's Been a Great Car to Own
Vincenzo, 11/02/2017
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
54 of 56 people found this review helpful
I have owned this car for almost a year now, and I was expecting it to cost 3-5k a year to maintain. I had an emergency fund in place fully funded and so far it's been in the shop for some ball joints in the suspension, an intercooler pump (which is upgraded so it shouldn't break for a while) and couple of new rims because the 2 left got bent. I've replaced the alternator, crank shaft position sensor, engine and cabin air filters, a few pulleys and a valve cover gasket. It's going to need trunk struts, accumulator spheres, engine/transmission mounts and a few cosmetic touch ups (but overall my car is in really good shape). This car has costed me $2,000 in the first year to get caught up on maintenance which is cheap for a car like this at 14 years old. The engine was shutting off on it when it got warmed up not too long ago. I was able to diagnose the problem in less then 15 minutes at a cost of less then $28. It was the CPS and it was a breeze to install once I got it (took 10 minutes) and every local auto part shop had it in stock. I replaced the alternator myself on it as well and once you know the procedure it's easy to replace. You need to remove the fan shroud and it will make it easier but it was a breeze as well. This is a very easy car to work on. The hood opens 90 degrees and theres a lot of room to work almost like an old muscle car. The struts and brakes cost a lot retail but you can find them so cheap to nothing if you shop around so the parts are usually very cheap and sometimes free in my experience if you send the old ones in. The engine parts are almost all metal and you don't have to worry about anything breaking unless you over tighten stuff. The car gets terrible overall fuel economy but it's very fast and the acceleration is brutal in a way. There are a few quality problems but they're very small and the average person wouldn't be able to find them. The quality of materials and build quality is overall extremely high for this vehicle especially when you consider it's from the DaimlerChrysler era. It's got a tank like Mercedes-Benz build quality to it. It feels very solid and heavy and the doors are very heavy. The transmissions in these vehicles shift very slow and are a bit cumbersome but are basically the same as you'd find in a Sprinter van or almost any other Mercedes in this time period and is found in almost every V12 Mercedes until 2014 or so. You can also find it in many Chrysler vehicles like V8 Grand Cherokees, 300's, Chargers, Challengers, Durangos, you name it. It's even in some Jaguars and 911's. It's a very heavy duty unit and can run for 100's of thousands of miles. When you need to replace it just make sure it has the correct torque converter and you're golden. The unit should be pretty cheap. This is a very intuitive car. I am not a technician or expert and I can easily diagnose anything in this car in 15 minutes or less. Make sure the hydraulic fluid has been getting changed though before you buy one because the car rides on a fully active hydraulic suspension and one pump runs the suspension and steering. If the fluid is not changed before 50k miles at least, the pump will fail, the lines will get clogged and it can ruin your struts. It can total out your car if someone is careless about this and should be done every 30k along with the transmission fluid or even 20k if you can. This is the only thing you have to worry about. The engine mounts go out early because they're filled with fluid and are soft to make the car ride and settle better so that's normal. Supercharger oil should be done every 20-30k as well and make sure you lubricate the seals and the top. Overall if you listen to what Mercedes tells you to do and do more than what is expected and are good to your car you will be rewarded with one of the most reliable vehicles on the market. 1,000,000 miles on one of these is not uncommon and can go possibly 2,000,000 miles between rebuilds. It's a very solid and simple single overhead cam engine. It's not hard to maintain. Make sure you have an emergency fund in place though. You should have one anyways and it should have at least $12,000 in it.
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SL made a bit better
Dave, 09/12/2018
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
34 of 36 people found this review helpful
I bought my 03 SL500 5 years ago and it had roughly 70,000 miles on it. The 1st issue was a plastic part in the shifter box, almost got stuck in San Diego when it broke and it would jot shift into any gear, so looked it up and followed the directions, I took the shift knob off and beat the shifter with a 3lb slept and smacked it a few times and it did allow me to shift ( just make sure you do not put back into park ), once home pulled console apart, took shifter box out and replace broken plastic with a replacement made from alluminum one and put it back together. The next issue was with the suspension, had the dash light up a few times telling me car was low but it wasn't, then had RR shock leaking and they said they wanted 1600 for a shock, actually found a place that makes a conversion coil over, so I did that on all corners, they new suspension cost me 1200 and they bought the old shocks back from me for 400 each, so now it's in sport mode all the time ( I live in AZ and will not be driving in snow or putting chains on ). Replaced the AC compressor, so that was a grand, and now I had an altornator go out and also took the BCM with it so between those 2 parts it's about 1100. So all in all it hasn't been any worse then any other vehicle, but it sure is a lot more fun to drive and gets way more looks and compliments, I spend most of the week driving a F150 of F350 so getting in the car that small and that close to the road is a big change ------ it's a nice toy
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Oh damn its broke again.
jagboi1967, 06/21/2015
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
50 of 54 people found this review helpful
Seems like this car has been in the shop more than it has been on the road the last 2 years I bought the car 2.5 years ago with 80,000 miles on it. It now has 100,590 It has a ton of service records on it. If its not the ABC going down its the SRS system or this week its the SOS flashing and then the trunk will not open and now the AC has quit and the shop says its going to be expensive to fix. Its just one thing after another. Thinking about parking it in the front yard and filling it with dirt and making it a very expensive planter.
Makes a GREAT PLANTER
lemonade, 09/15/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
26 of 28 people found this review helpful
The concept was fabulous.The exterior fabulous.The fun driving fabulous. However it looses its appeal after the 9th time it is in for repairs within a few months. It really lost its appeal when the Designo edition $103,000 began to smell. A pungent cat urine (as described by dealer- I don't have a cat) odor so foul it burned your eyes & throat. Six months more of repairs and interior replacements...it still stinks. Numerous calls to the manufacturer (because the dealer CANNOT? do anything except let me BUY my way out of the car) still no response!
Dealers and Corp should listen to custom
ac crenshaw, 10/24/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
The overall performance of the car is excellent. The issue that I have is one of service. I had a problem with service at an Atlanta Dealer, wrote the corporate customer service folks and copied Mr. Halata of MBUSA and got a response which in essence just "blew me off." After owning at least 5 MB over the last 10 years I find that the dealers have become extremely proud of these cars to the extent that they are becoming arrogant. Sales without the necessary support staff means that this will be my last MB for a while. People do business with people who show them that they care. MBUSA has shown me that they "NO LONGER CARE."
It's all about appearances.
berwanger1, 04/21/2009
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
This is the most beautiful car I have owned...really turns heads. Interior would score equally high but for the use of too much hard, cheap plastic. Handling and power are just okay, hampered by the excessive weight of the car. Problem is, such a striking exterior design and the high price raise expectations of super performance and quality materials. Not the case. Leather is cracking and discoloring. Paint seems thin; chips easily Also, lots of noise coming from under the car, like gears whining, bearings grinding, yet everything is okay. Noise level is unacceptable in car of this rank. Dealer service has been great, but parts are ridiculously expensive. Not a great drive.
SL500 is a dog
sally, 02/02/2007
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
20 of 22 people found this review helpful
3 years and 20K miles of nothing but trouble. brakes and battery/electrical problems constantly. Been towed in 4X. Gave up on it so it now looks great sitting in the garage!
This Car is incredible
bigmirsh, 05/03/2005
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
Imagine a car that has everything one could ask for. This car was built for someone who wants a daily driver that is fun as hell and fits like a glove. Driving this car is like eating the perfect meal.
Looks good. But thats it.
WritrguyLA, 11/26/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
In the shop every month since I bought it. Too many electronic features I guess, because something is ALWAYS breaking. And speaking of brakes, be ready to replace them within the first year. And its not covered. And the ride is not sporty, its more luxury.
Style and performance
Michael altman, 06/29/2016
updated 12/29/2016
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
15 of 17 people found this review helpful
If you have the 18 sport wheels with performance tires they will only last about 10,000 miles in the tears. Every where I go with this car it's still a head turner for a 2003 with a style that will always look new. Update 70,000 miles abs light came on and checked fluid it was low, added fluid OEM and all is good, thought I might need pump but I believe due to heat evaporation there was some loss. Added jdm front tower strut bar for less flex, k&n air filters with improved power and saved gas by 4 mpg. Lowering links dropped car 2 1/2 inches. Now will be installing new exhaust! Truly a great driving machine and a head turner!
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No more ABC headaches!
Elmar Jaust, 05/24/2020
updated 05/27/2025
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
Well, after about 11 years of ownership of a now 21-year old beautiful car, we decided we had had enough of the ABC headaches and did the research that we should have done 11 years earlier. We found that the troublesome ABC suspension can be converted to a mechanical “coilover” one. At a significant cost, of course. Needless to say, M-B dealerships would not do it, and there aren’t many independent service stations that would do it. But fortunately we found one. It took a few days and about $7,500, but the headaches are gone, and that’s priceless. The suspension feels a little harder on rough roads, but considering that the car is now nearing the age where it can be considered “antique”, it’s acceptable. Otherwise the car keeps running great and generates a much-better-than-advertised gas mileage of 20-21 Mpg in mixed hwy/city driving with a light foot and occasional sprints. In its Magma Red color it continues to be a beauty to look at as well. Hopefully, it’ll stick around much longer…
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foul smell in mercedes
jjzachs, 07/24/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
my car has been in shop for over 120 daysin one year.now there foul smell from a defect in the door design in the designo version. it supposidly leaked glue and caused a foul smell.we heard of other cars with same problem.mercedes has to date not told the exact nature of the problem or the chemical that leaked.my car still stinks
Near Flawless Vehicle Even 14 Years Old!
Jason Coon, 05/08/2017
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
Not sure about all the negative comments. I bought this car for my wife as she has always wanted a convertible and geez you just can't go wrong with MB. I bought it over a year ago. It was a 2003 with 29,000 miles on it! I bought it in 2016. The car has never been in accidents and appears to have regular maintenance from records. We have put 8000 miles on it since owning it and almost all the original components are on it and have not failed with one exception (see further below). We do not drive it in the Minnesota winter. The car has been near flawless, fun, reliable, extremely comfortable, and surprisingly a good handling car. It's the whole deal. While it does not have the power my RS6 does, nor equal the cornering and braking of my Porsche or RS6....the comfort and styling just can't be matched. I would rather drive this car than the others. I was so impressed with this car I bought an AMG MB days after. The only thing that does not work is the lumbar control in the driver's seat. We are still on the original brake pads and only have had to do one oil change.
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Beautiful but unreliable
CPRCPR, 05/11/2004
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought my SL500 in Jul-03. But ownership is blighted by consistent unreliability and visits to Mercedes service. SL parts are often not available, so your car sits, un- drivable, in the repair shop waiting for parts. In 10 mths I spent a month in loan cars, whilst waiting for parts & repairs. Mercedes paid for everything, but that does not take away the irritation. This weeks fault is the seat-belt (unsafe to drive, 10 day for parts); previous failures were hydraulics (undrivable), exhaust (illegal to drive) and electric seat adjustment stuck in fully forward (couldnt enter seat). So buy an SL500 as a third car, but not if you want something reliable.
SL55 just OK
Phil's View SL55 , 07/31/2005
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I have had this car since Nov 2002, but don't drive it much. The car is fast ,but drive by wire needs work [touchy brakes and lack of trottle response at times is dangerous. I had a defective digital display which was replaced but not improved. The dealer refused to let me speak to factory rep. After a year, I finally got the dealer to compare to another SL and they finally fixed it. Stereo amp blew out and had to be replaced. Sound system is average at best. Why do you have to push a button to use the steering wheel shift controls? Command center is way too complex. Nav system is very difficult and inaccurate. A stunning car, but I prefer to drive my 1998 Corvette Convertible.
Repair and Maint. Costs Take the Fun Away
Paul, 03/30/2019
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Its first generation technology and expensive to repair maintain.
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best car even after 16 years
Josef Baikal, 09/01/2019
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I had this car for 16 years with very few issues. Still drives like new. OK technology not up to date but engine transmission still amazing. Handling better than new ones. For the price on todays market its an amazing deal.
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about my experience
Charlie, 03/14/2002
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
19 of 24 people found this review helpful
this vehicle is a thunder for curbes. this vehicle is safe when comes to brake question. this vehicle is otherwise a fast,quality,safe,reliable,but the interior is getting lame... its out of style and needs something new...to beat other concurents
Known Lemon. Every One of Them. Stay Far Away!
Scott Espenshade, 11/17/2015
updated 05/24/2016
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
32 of 42 people found this review helpful
Mercedes is well aware of all the ABC failures on their SL500s & SL550s, but are still allowed to sell them in the United States. There is a VERY dangerous problem if you are driving at the time of the failure. Imagine a shock suddenly coming off a vehicle at 65 MPH?!? Not imagine that EACH AND EVERYONE of the vehicle sold that year fail. 100% FAIL. Sound like a class action lawsuit? You would think so, but some how Mercedes Benz is able to still push lemons out the door. This is not just plain greed, it is a complete lack of value for human life! I have completely lost all respect for Mercedes Benz.
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Great Car Lotsa Fun
IvanUSA, 04/26/2008
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
This is a an exeptional vehicle, hardtop convertible roadster. This is my second one with AMG package on it just not supercharged. I highly recomend this car to every one
None better!
OVERTHETOP, 07/08/2007
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
12 of 15 people found this review helpful
I've owned 4 MB's, a Porsche, and numerous other European vehicles. I've driven them all for pleasure. None for day to day. I've never had a MB that dissappointed me..including my SL500. My Porsche 996 was in the shop every other week..literally, for "check engine lights. It never was resolved. Save your money and buy this car. I'm over 6'6", and wide, and am comfortable. Interior design is remarkable. The car is in the shop for scheduled maintenance only. Come to think of it, I don't know that I've ever had a major problem with any MB. It's fast, sleek, handles on a rail, looks fabulous, runs magnificently. I don't know what else I could ask for. I'm just glad that I bought this car.
Amazing to drive & horrific to own
Richard Hill, 01/12/2010
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
22 of 29 people found this review helpful
I have owned over twenty Mercedes and this has been the most exciting to drive and yet the worst for reliability. The quality of the cabin components are cheap and tacky and a disgrace to the badge and the electronics are a complete nightmare. I cannot trust any of the onboard warning systems and my repair bills to try and get them sorted is like paying off the national debt. The depreciation on this vehicle has been alarming and I am so disappointed that this will probably be the last Mercedes Benz I will purchase.
My Retirement Gift
Ray's Dream Car, 09/20/2007
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
9 of 11 people found this review helpful
I could not be happier with the purchase of my 2003 500SL. Its performance, luxury appointments, and over all wow factor is amazing. I never thought that a retired school teacher would be fortunate enough to own a car of this quality.
2003 Certified Used SL55
miles of smiles, 02/03/2007
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2003 certified Diamond Silver SL55 avoiding the $50K depreciation. What a car. Incredible looks and power, and a great sounding rumble. The car is truely amazing, yet the navigation is dated years compared to Lexus. I have no regrets in the first 2,000 miles. I have heard both positive and negative reviews for the car so I purchased the extended warranty to 100K miles. It appears to be hit or miss with some of the cars with the research I've done.
210,000 miles on my Mercedes R230 SL500 2003
Tony R, 11/17/2023
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Upkeep is expensive, but it is a pleasure to drive. The Mercedes body style is timeless. The ABC can be problematic, and I have replaced one or more of struts multiple times over the course of twenty years. In addition to the following: 1. Power steering/ABC pump 2. Spark plugs 3. Spark plug cables 4. Coil packs 5. Valve cover gaskets (twice) 6. MAF sensor and associated gaskets 7. Vacuum lines 8. Water pump 9. Aux water pump 10. Radiator 11. Most coolant hoses 12. Thermostat 13. Batteries (twice) 14. ABS system (under recall warranty) 15. Brake pads and rotors 16. Flex discs on the drive shaft - front and rear 17. Control arms 18. Tie rods 19. Rear subframe bushings 20. Wheels to aftermarket 21. Several sets of tires 22. Fuel pump and filter 23. Inside door handle 24. Center console button assembly 25. Trunk vacuum lock (twice) 26. Trunk dampeners 27. Fuel cap 28. ABC accumulators 29. ABC hydraulic hose from pump to rear of the vehicle. 30. ABC valve block 31. Crankshaft position sensor 32. Catalytic converters 33. Oxygen sensors with the cats 34. Many oil changes over the years and transmission service twice. 35. Wheel bearings (front) 36. Window regulator - driver's side 37. Gears on the flaps on the trunk when switching to convertible mode. 38. Oil pan gasket 39. Air filters 40. Cabin filters 41. Visor - passenger side 42. Hydraulic fluid (multiple times) 43. Wipers 44. Engine mounts (twice) 45. Belts and pulleys 46. Coolant recovery tank cap. 47. Key 48. Newer BCU - Battery control unit located in the trunk (DYI job) The engine runs like a champ and the vehicle has a solid sure-footed ride. The convertible stopped working and is in need of repair, however, it's not a priority since I seldom have the desire to lower the top. Some of the engine work I perform myself, but I leave the ABC to the pros. A couple of the struts are now 7 and 8 years old respectively. Prior to that, some of the earlier failures were due to the remanufactured replacements that failed prematurely during the component's warranty period. I plan to change those two older struts as preventative maintenance in the coming week. We'll see if I can get to 500,000 miles on that engine with the frequent oil changes I do myself and with regular and thoughtful maintenance.
Wow, but it stinks
jcj001, 12/08/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is the latest in my car habit. Before this I had an 02 Carrerra, an 02 M3 convertible, an 01 Vette Coupe, a 99 430E, and a 97 540i. This is by far the best car that I have owned. The interior is great, and the command system is quite useful. The exterior is simply marvelous. I have the smell problem as mentioned in other reviews. MB of Annapolis sold it to me knowing it, then promised to fix it (had the car three weeks after I only had it a week), and it needs to go back in. They refused to give me my money back. MB of Annapolis has seen its last dollar from me, and I would recommend anybody else staying away from them too.
I loved my car but sold it to avoid future bad!
ken greenfield, 12/22/2015
updated 01/03/2018
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
13 of 17 people found this review helpful
But, after 3 years and the extended warranty about to expire, I'm thinking it's time to sell it. With the bumper to bumper used car warranty I had many things fixed for the $50 deductible. But this car has a horrible reputation for reliability, so??? But I love my car, so I am really torn!
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Milage makes no difference - starts breaking day 1
For ONCE in my life., 09/07/2023
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
If they got rid of the "untils" it would be all of what you could hope for in an automobile of this class. You will get that feeling each time you pull out of the dealers shop after sipping the most expensive "free" cup of coffee on the planet (about three times a month). Great ride - until the shocks fail suddenly when you hit a bump. Great top - until it gets stuck half way up. Great looks - until you pay for a $10,000 body scratch. Great mileage - until you drive it in the city. Comfortable ride - until you put 5000 miles on a new set of $3000 tires. Nice auto trunk opener - until the gas lift assist fails (monthly). Great open road drive - but you'll never know because the car is in the shop for the third time this month. Great road service - until you call the number and find out it's "no longer in service". Great 2 battery system - until you find out they fail without warning and must be replaced every year at $600 for the pair. Great way to attract a woman - until you find out that she wants to get married and take out a life insurance policy on you on the same day. I put 40k miles on the car - all under warrantee and the car was in the shop over 20 times. I now drive a Camry - 40k miles as of today, not a SINGLE problem. None! Zero! Zip! Nada! - and no troublesome women. Guess I'm just not as attractive as I once was.
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mid life convertable
jack1560, 08/30/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
i have made it. driving this car shows i know automobles. i have owned bmw, Ferrari and many many cars. The car handles like it is on a rail. With the top down and the roll bar up i can still maintain a conversation with my passenger without yelling. I like driving the car by myself and just get into the driving and shifting.
Best Car I Have Ever Owned
azmike, 09/02/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Without reservation this is the best car I have owned. The styling is fantastic and everything feels classy. Looked at Jag, Lexus SC and magazie previews of new cadillac--no comparision in my judgment.
OMG don't buy this car used!
Honest, 02/06/2022
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
OMG don't buy this car used! Mine had only 84,000 miles on it when I bought it in July, 2018. It spent almost a year of the 3 1/2 years I owned it in the shop with various issues. Hydraulic suspension failed several times, constantly draining battery, hydraulic hardtop convertible top failed, oil leaks from the valve covers, oil leaks at the front and rear of the engine, etc. I easily spent at least 3 times the $12K I paid for it in repairs. When it ran it was great but run away! It's not worth it.
Perfection in 2 doors
jshoes, 09/19/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is it as far as high performance convertibles go. I visited the AMG factory in September, 2001, when they were first testing these cars. After I heard it drive past me, I knew I wanted one. The sounds is amazing. I love the look on people's faces when I drive down the street and floor the car. Call me juvenile? Sure but I have a really big smile on my face everytime. On top of all this, it is gorgeous, comfortable, luxurious, exclusive and did I mention fast?
Never Had Better....BUT
AL, 07/20/2009
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
I have had many cars but this car has to be the best all around car ever.It is the ultimate GT car,sports,coupe convertible,luxury and hot rod.I don't believe there is a car in the world that works better in a combined package.I can't wait to get my four year old 2009 SL65 at a $100,000.00 + discount. I'm pretty sure I got mine for about the cost of a new loaded mini van...
Hot stuff
anna jo julian, 09/19/2002
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
i really like this car a lot.It runs very well and it has great features.
Excellent Car!
Loan Lady, 12/23/2007
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
8 of 12 people found this review helpful
I drove the Lexus convertable and fell in lust. But not until I drove the 2003 MB 500 SL that I fell in love! Great steering radius and serious power and performance. MB is back!
Stay away!
earbon, 03/30/2008
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
8 of 12 people found this review helpful
As a starter the value of that car is dropping like a rock in a lake with no bottom. The real trade in value is between $25000.00 and $31000.00 at best. I was lucky to buy it with a POC on it otherwise I would have left my wallet at the dealer. Lots of squeaking and annoying noise coming from the chassis. Lots of problem with the electronic, seat wont recline and suddenly they do, the lighting. The air ride suspension is nice but unreliable and can collapse at any time. They had to replace the whole rear end at 48000 miles. Please stay away from Mercedes benz and leave MB where they deserve to be, in bankruptcy.
Best car ever built
Frank Girardi, 04/05/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Best Mercedes ever built
Whiplash
kgb, 05/05/2005
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Fastest car I've ever had the pleasure to drive. The "Car" is well built, but don't trust Germans with electronics, that's best left the the Japanese.
SL55 AMG
Angus Tone, 08/21/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is a dream to drive its performance is unmatched in its class. It does a faster 0-60 than the ferrari modeno and spyder. This car exudes class and power if you have the funds i deffinetly advise picking one up
I love my mercedes benz
Kerry , 08/26/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My first car was a 1998 Mercedes SL450. I didnt like it too much so i decided to get something smaller. My AMG is the greatest car i've ever owned. The milage is a +. I would definetly recommend this vehicle to anybody.
Perfection
Bruce E. Cook, 10/08/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
German engineering has reached the ultimate level. The Mercedes 500 SL in the 2003 model comes as close to perfection as is possible. After driving this car for ten months, I believe that this is the finest car I've ever owned. Every aspect of the automobile is a thrill to look at and to drive. It has the look and the feel of what a $100,000 plus car should have for the owner. Well worth the price.
Brakes Dont Work
JC Powell, 10/01/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This hi tech car does not have the bugs worked out yet. The new electronic brakes are not reliable. I ran into a car because the brakes would not work. MB sent someone to investigate but were unable to replicate so said drive it until it happens again! I am not their test dummy. Wait until they get the bugs out.
mine
palbertr, 09/25/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL55 AMG 2dr Convertible (5.5L 8cyl S/C 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great car,but lots of annoying problems. rear computer failure,noise from gas tank (many cars affected) required 2 week replacement.tire pressure system,sqeeaking brakes,noise from under car while turning,squeeks from top.
looks only
relfamily, 11/08/2003
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
reliability's very disappointing. on a monthly basis there is some small problem, which so far the excellent service dept. of this dealership was able to correct. but then there are some problems they cannot handle since it relates to the mechanical design of this car. we all know the low profile tires allow the rims to get nicked very easily ( there is a pending classaction suit ) the body flexes and there are noises from the roof latches and other parts of the car which MB have no idea how to correct. all in all this was a poor investments and u can get a better car for half this price. sorry MB but no wonder u are nbr 29 on the list of JDP..
Red
TommyA931, 09/12/2008
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
4 of 7 people found this review helpful
This is my 7th red SL in 25 years, so I'm pretty well pre-sold. I really loved my '97 SL500, but the 2003 is really a joy, and no more messing with the tops. On a 50+ mile trip at 65MPH it clocks better than 24MPG, goes to 15-17MPG when "romping" on it, but hey, that's why we buy red sports cars, isn't it? The CD-based NAVI stinks compared to my 2007 ML AMG, but you can't get lost in an SL anyway. As always, gets lots of eyeball, and is fun to drive! I've also owned Porches and Jags, but like the SL best. Worth every penny!
SL 2003
Harry R. Culp, 07/19/2004
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I love my SL, but the one thing I miss is room in the trunk.
More than just a pretty face
stem, 11/08/2002
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL500 2dr Convertible (5.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I was drawn to this car by its looks but am more impressed by its performance. For me it strikes the perfect balance between a sports car and a luxury car. I use to think BMW was the ultimate driving machine. I do not think that any longer