2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 recalls

No safety recalls on file for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500.

Most common 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 problems

Problem areas named in the 80 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Suspension	34
Fuel System, Gasoline	11
Electrical System	10
Fuel/Propulsion System	8
Service Brakes	8
Service Brakes, Hydraulic	6
Steering	6
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)	5
Engine And Engine Cooling	4
Air Bags	4

What owners report

2023-11-29, Electrical System
To who may this concerned, I have a 2003 Mercedes SL500 and recently found my battery control module caught on fire and burnt a section of my car. I have tried reaching out to Mercedes directly first and they said the car is 20 years ago and it could have not be a manufactured defect. Please I need help this problem could’ve burn down my house or while I was driving. Mercedes requested I send them a letter in writing if I have to get the car inspected. Please setup and date so I can write them this is 100% liability on their brand as there is no schedule maintenance for a battery control module.

2023-11-27, Electrical System
I am concerned with the battery control module. I have noticed there has been a lot of incidents out there where the battery control module in the SL 500s have caught fire! I am concerned for my safety due to this defect!

2023-08-22, Suspension
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the ABC warning light illuminated. Additionally, the message "Drive Carefully" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the ABC tandem pump, struts, and hoses needed to be replaced. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they did not provide service for older vehicles. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.

2022-09-28, Suspension
ABC (Active Body Control) light keeps coming on and body goes up and down when I drove car. Light says do not drive. Mercedes would not take responsibility for this in spite there are so many complaints about this. Really irresponsible by Mercedes.

2022-07-20, Suspension
I was driving my car at 45 mph and suddenly, unexpectedly a red light flashed ABC do not drive. Smoke was coming from under the car and the front end of the vehicle collapsed downwardly. I had to call for a tow truck to take my vehicle to the MB dealership. I'm I am waiting for the prognosis. I've had numerous issues with the All Body Control system. Expensive repairs in the $3000-$8000 range. This is a safety issue the breakdown happens abruptly and I was fortunate other cars weren't on the parkway with me. Otherwise a crash could gave occurred.

2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 questions

Does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 have any recalls?

No. NHTSA has no safety recalls on file for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 at this time.

What are the most common problems with the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500?

Based on 80 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Suspension (34), Fuel System, Gasoline (11), Electrical System (10).

How do I check if a recall on my 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.