Mercedes-Benz SL-Class years to avoid
Across 1996–2013, no single SL-Class year stands out as one to avoid by our thresholds. The 2003 drew the most complaints; 2013 the fewest.
58
Total complaints
8
Recall campaigns
1996–2013
Years covered
0
Years to avoid
Complaints by model year
Every SL-Class year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 0 | 1 | |
| 2009 | 0 | 1 | |
| 2006 | 0 | 1 | |
| 2005 | 3 | 1 | |
| 2004 | 6 | 3 | |
| 2003 | 23 | 3 | |
| 2002 | 1 | 0 | |
| 1999 | 0 | 0 | |
| 1998 | 20 | 0 | |
| 1997 | 3 | 2 | |
| 1996 | 2 | 3 |
Common questions
What is the best year for the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
By complaint volume, 2013 has the cleanest NHTSA record among SL-Class years with enough data to compare.
How many recalls does the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class have?
Across all model years, the SL-Class has 8 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 58 consumer complaints on file.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.