Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-AMG SL63 R231 buying guide
The R231 SL63 AMG, sold from 2012, uses the M157 5.5 litre twin-turbo V8 it shares with the E63 and CLS63 of the period, with a seven-speed wet-clutch automatic and a folding aluminium hard top. A V12 SL65 sat above it; this page covers the SL63.
The versions
- SL63: M157 5,461cc twin-turbo V8, 537PS (530bhp) at launch, or 564PS with the optional AMG Performance Package
- From July 2014: 585PS (577bhp)
- Seven-speed AMG Speedshift MCT automatic with a wet clutch in place of a torque converter
- Active Body Control suspension with an SL63-specific set-up
- Folding hard top; pre-2016 cars must be stationary to operate it, later cars up to 25mph
What to check on a R231 SL63
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Rattles on a cold start
What to look for: On a car built up to the end of 2012, start the engine from fully cold, ideally after it has stood overnight, and listen at the front of the engine for a rattle in the first few seconds. Ask whether the timing chain tensioner modification has been done.
Why it matters: Mercedes issued a service bulletin for a rattle lasting a few seconds after start-up on M157 engines built up to December 2012, with the R231 SL listed among the affected models; the E63 and CLS63 share the engine and the fix. The secondary timing chain tensioners rattle until oil pressure builds, and Mercedes says no lasting damage is expected. The fix is a non-return valve in each cylinder head's tensioner oil feed, with new tensioners where needed.
Camshaft sensors and oil in the wiring
What to look for: Watch for the engine warning light, and ask a specialist to point out the camshaft position sensors so you can look at them and the wiring plugs around them for oil. Oily connectors are the thing to note.
Why it matters: Camshaft position sensor failure is known on the M157, the engine the SL63 shares with the CLS63. A sensor on its own is a relatively simple fix, but oil can work its way from the sensors into the wiring harness, which is much more involved to put right, so a careful look before buying is wise.
Roof and boot divider
What to look for: Operate the folding roof fully open and closed at least twice. Check the divider between the roof storage area and the boot locks into place easily, and look for damp in the carpets and boot. If the seller allows, hose the car down to check for leaks.
Why it matters: The roof mechanism is reliable most of the time, but the boot divider can work loose and jam the roof, and its latches can be hard to engage. A dry cabin and a roof that cycles cleanly are good signs.
Also in the full guide
- Active Body Control and recalls
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the R231 SL63
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.