Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG C197 buying guide
The SLS AMG went on sale in the UK in 2010 with gullwing doors, aluminium construction and the M159, a dry-sump 6.2 litre V8 revised from the M156. A Roadster followed in 2011, the GT in 2012 and the Black Series in 2013. Owners report few issues.
The versions
- SLS AMG coupé and Roadster: M159 6,208cc naturally aspirated V8, 563hp
- SLS AMG GT (2012): 583hp
- Black Series (2014 model year, 150 built): 622hp, 8,000rpm limit, electronic differential
- Seven-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch transaxle, rear-wheel drive, mechanical limited-slip differential on standard cars
What to check on a SLS AMG
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
The dual-clutch gearbox and its software
What to look for: Drive in automatic mode, where changes should be smooth, then try the paddles for upshifts and downshifts in every drive mode. Ask whether the enhanced AMG gearbox software has been fitted, and on a pre-2012 car whether the 2013 software update was done. A specialist with diagnostic equipment can read clutch wear.
Why it matters: Pre-2012 cars could shift slowly, and Mercedes offered a software update in 2013. Minor gearbox faults are often fixed by a software flash, and resetting the clutch position sensors can extend clutch life. Specialists treat the gearbox as a sealed unit, so a serious fault means a replacement; the gearbox is otherwise largely trouble free.
Camshaft adjuster wear
What to look for: Ask for the mileage and any invoices for camshaft adjuster work, and on cars around or beyond 60,000 miles, have a specialist check the camshaft adjusters.
Why it matters: The M159 shares the camshaft adjuster wear of the M156, though the SLS engine had revised valve gear and camshafts. The first signs of wear usually appear at around 60,000 miles.
Gullwing door alignment and edges
What to look for: On a coupé, open and close both gullwing doors, check they line up with the body and close cleanly, and look along the bottom edges of the doors for scratches and chips.
Why it matters: The gullwing doors are known to be difficult to align, so poor gaps can point to accident repair. Their bottom edges are easily damaged by neighbouring cars and walls.
Also in the full guide
- The Roadster roof
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the SLS 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.
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.