Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz SL55, SL63 and SL65 AMG R230 buying guide
The AMG versions of the R230 SL began with the supercharged SL55 in 2002, joined by the V12 SL65 in 2004, with the SL63 replacing the SL55 in 2008. All have the Vario folding roof.
The versions
- SL55 AMG: 5.4 litre supercharged V8, 476bhp at launch, rising to about 500bhp; five-speed automatic with paddles
- SL63 AMG (from 2008): 518bhp
- SL65 AMG (from 2004): V12, 612bhp
- Active Body Control suspension, Sensotronic Brake Control brakes and the Vario roof
What to check on a R230 SL AMG
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Active Body Control suspension
What to look for: With a torch, look under the car at the suspension pipes for rust and around the struts for wet fluid. Listen for a humming noise with the engine running, and check the car sits level. Ask when the ABC fluid was last changed and whether the recall work has been done.
Why it matters: Rusty pipes or leaky seals let the ABC hydraulic pump run dry and fail, and a pump can also fail around 60,000 miles if the fluid isn't changed. A 2008 recall covered possible acceleration sensor failure in the suspension. Specialists repair these systems, and suspension struts are a common MOT item.
Roof operation and a damp boot
What to look for: Operate the Vario roof fully open and closed at least twice, listening for creaks as it closes. Then lift the boot floor and look for damp or standing water.
Why it matters: Seals on early cars let water into the boot, helped by blocked drain holes, and the water can short the roof motor, the central locking vacuum pump and the second battery that powers much of the electronics. Cars from 2006 have better roof sealing, and earlier roofs can be upgraded.
The SL55's supercharger cooler
What to look for: On an SL55, look around the engine bay and under the front of the car at the intercooler plumbing for coolant leaks and rust on the pipes. Make sure the car pulls strongly once warm.
Why it matters: The supercharged V8 has a separate cooling circuit for the supercharger, with a lot of plumbing that needs to be fluid-tight and rust-free. On the SL63, a few cars had cylinder head bolt issues, so ask about it on that model.
Also in the full guide
- The SBC brakes
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the R230 SL AMG
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Mercedes-Benz.