Mercedes-Benz

SL-Class (R231)

2013-2020 · Roadster · 1 engine
Best Engine ⚠️ Caution (3.4)
34 NHTSA Complaints
0 Recalls
0 Fire Reports
2 Crash Reports
View all 2 generations of the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class → 📋 Inspection checklist

Engine Reliability Ratings

Show 4 additional engine variants with limited data
These engines appear in fewer than 10 owner complaints and aren't included in the main ratings above. Low counts can mean a genuinely clean record, but they can also reflect VIN-decode anomalies in NHTSA data. Treat as informational, not as a confident rating.

5.5-V8-Gas

5.5L 8-cyl
Recommended (4.2)
3 complaints 1.0 per year Gasoline
View details

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Unidentified Engine

Recommended (3.7)
3 complaints 3.0 per year
View details

Complaint Breakdown

transmission
2
wheels tires
1

Known Issues

Transmission Issues (2 complaints)
Wheels & Tires Issues (1 complaints)

3.0-V6-Gas

3.0L 6-cyl
Recommended (4.0)
3 complaints 1.5 per year Gasoline
View details

Complaint Breakdown

wheels tires
3

Known Issues

Wheels & Tires Issues (3 complaints)

Same engine used in

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M276

3.0L 6-cyl Turbo / 362 hp
Recommended (4.2)
1 complaint 1.0 per year Gasoline
View details

Vehicle-Level Issues

These issues affect the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class regardless of engine variant.

Engine Issues (7 complaints)
engine critical
Steering Issues (6 complaints)
steering cosmetic
Transmission Issues (6 complaints)
transmission cosmetic

Alternatives in Roadster

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class problems?

The 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class has accumulated 34 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Steering, Transmission. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Mercedes-Benz SL-Class engine is most reliable?

The 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class was offered with 5 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 4.7L 8-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class a good used car?

The 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 34 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class have?

The 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class has 34 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?

There are 0 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?

Before buying a used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Steering, Transmission, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

Does the SL-Class have NHTSA crash test ratings?

NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 34 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: moderate. Last updated: 2026-05-23.

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