There are no safety recalls for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550, but owners have filed 15 complaints with NHTSA.
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Tires | 5 | |
| Service Brakes | 5 | |
| Wheels | 4 | |
| Electrical System | 3 | |
| Structure | 2 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Tires › Pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems — 1
- Structure › Body — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 9,660 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Electrical System · reported Nov 23, 2025
I'm reporting a SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE affecting all Mercedes-Benz R230 series SL roadsters, model years 2003â2012, of which approximately 85,000 were sold in the United States: ⢠There are numerous reports on R230 SL owners' online forums that an electrical device located in the trunk of these vehicles known as the BCM [Battery Control Module] is prone to CATASTROPHIC FAILURE and melt-down. ⢠The failed BCM can subsequently CATCH FIRE â potentially destroying the vehicle and endangering lives and property nearby. See photos attached from one SL owner's experience. ⢠MBUSA, its…
Service Brakes · reported Feb 13, 2025
Complete brake failure while driving. No one was injured but the vehicle could not be stopped until the transmission went into limp mode with still no brakes. Now the ABS and SRS lights on. Brake pedal to the floor. I completely have new brakes speed sensors fluid exchanges and more. The current recall doesnât seem to cover my vehicle. I contacted the dealership and they said there are no open recalls.
Electrical System · reported Dec 2, 2022
This particular model 2009 Mercedes SL 550 hardtop convertible 5.5 liter motor has two batteries and accessory battery that battery thatâs located in the trunk in the main starting battery thatâs on the firewall. These batteries are both new in OEM recommended. If the car sits for 24 hours, it will not start. The electrical system is completely drained. There are many forms describing the same issue but yet the SL model is not included in a civil lawsuit. Mercedes-Benz definitely knows they have an issue in somehow it needs to be rectified.
Service Brakes · reported Jun 10, 2022
[XXX] [XXX] [XXX] VIN # [XXX] SL550 2009 Since I bought this car 3 years ago the first day I am using it I got the problem say Reduced Braking Power, Depress Brake Pedal fully. I thought only when the weather is cold but now after 15 minutes minutes I am running on the road losing brake it is scary not only one time its always every 30 minutes now . I am stop using for a while . I try to bring in dealer for diagnose last 2 years ago they cant find the problem even my person mechanic. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Service Brakes · reported May 16, 2022
I bought the almost 3 years now since I bought it I seen and message on the dash board Reduced Braking Power Depress Brake Pedal fully . I search on the website most the Mercedez Benz has same problem but when check my Vin number I saw no issue on my SL550 2009. I almost depress on my car ill spend a lot of money and its dangerous to used it I went to a dealer 2 years ago for but on their diagnose they don saw anything about this issue. Before its happen only when the weather is cold and car cold too but now while you on the road keep losing brake
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550?
Owners report tires problems most often (5 reports), followed by service brakes (5). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 9,660 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.