Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (2002 - 2008)
SL500
Beautiful to drive, quick and comfortable but ruined by chronic leaks to boot and cabin causing numerous problems to pumps and electronics,
I love my SL500 but unfortunately having owned 3 SLs this will be my last due to the expense caused by fixing the problems caused by the leaks which has blighted all 3 cars. Performance, ride and comfort are all first class but unfortunately Mercedes seem to deny the fact that the retractable roof seals are totally inadequate leading to malfunctioning of the components such as the central locking pump and various electronic control units due to becoming soaking wet. The last pump I had replaced which sits in the well of the boot has been encased in plastic and the inlet pipe rerouted in an attempt to provide it with dry air not the usual moist atmosphere which is a constant problem both in the boot and the cabin. It is with a heavy heart that I have to say that I couldn't recommend this car unless it is stored in the dry and never driven in the rain. However, if I moved to Spain I would definitely buy one.