There are no safety recalls for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL500, but owners have filed 19 complaints with NHTSA.
2005 Mercedes-Benz SL500 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Service Brakes | 6 | |
| Electrical System | 4 | |
| Power Train | 3 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 2 | |
| Suspension | 2 | |
| Latches/Locks/Linkages | 1 | |
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Visibility | 1 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | |
| Engine | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch — 1
- Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer — 1
- Electrical System › Wiring › Rear Compartment/Trunk — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 40,282 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL500 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Power Train · reported Feb 20, 2023
This issue almost cause an accident on the freeway, Transmission went from drive to neutral and then reverse. This is cause by the range sensor. Conductor plate for transmission is very common for this type of vehicles. Please investigate. This can cause a fatal injury or death.
Service Brakes · at 22,000 miles · reported Jan 14, 2022
The contact owns a 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL500. The contact stated that while driving from a complete stop, the brake warning light and other unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that he lost control of the vehicle but did not provide further information. The contact stated that while driving at 15 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but failed to respond. The warning message "Reduced Braking Power, Depress Brake Pedal Fully" and another message advising the contact to take the vehicle to the nearest service station illuminated. The contact continued to depress the brake pedal…
Electrical System · at 90,000 miles · reported Mar 25, 2020
The contact owns 2005 mercedes benz sl500. The contact stated that the whole right side of the vehicle trunk caught on fire while the vehicle was parked. The contact stated that the fire started in the upper right front area of the trunk where they were wires and saw sparks. The contact stated that the fire went out on its own because there was no oxygen. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that they will tow the vehicle to mercedes-benz of oakland (2915 broadway…
Engine · at 86,400 miles · reported Apr 3, 2018
The contact owned a 2005 mercedes-benz sl500. After parking the vehicle, the contact heard a noise coming from the engine compartment and flames appeared. The fire department extinguished the fire. A police report was not filed. There were no injuries. The vehicle was destroyed and towed to a towing yard. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 86,400.
Service Brakes · reported Mar 9, 2018
2005 mercedes sl500. Consumer writes in regards to vehicle brake system failure while driving. The consumer stated without warning the sbc pump warning light appeared and the brakes failed. The sbc pump needed to replaced. The vehicle was repaired.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL500 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL500 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL500?
Owners report service brakes problems most often (6 reports), followed by electrical system (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 40,282 miles.
Are Mercedes-Benz recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.