95 Sl500 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Ralph Burnette · #1 08-10-2002, 02:11 PM

I am looking at a 95 SL500 with 89,000 miles on it.
The price is attractive but I am concerned about
major (cost wise) failure points in the car and
short-term maintenance issues.

I would plan to have it inspected by a MB dealer
(or anyone else that someone could suggest).

How does one check if the car has been wrecked or
flooded?

Obviously, there is no Starmark guarantee so I want
to be extra careful.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

-Ralph Burnette

Mark Herzig · #2 08-10-2002, 04:35 PM

I would just be aware that around 100K miles, there is usually some investment required... i.e timing chain, hoses, etc... When you have it checked out, be sure to get a clear understanding of what expenses are either required immediately OR in the near future (+- 20K miles)

elau · #3 08-12-2002, 12:35 AM

I personally will not touch one if these cars without Star Mark. Not unless you can perform most of the repair yourself. Even so, parts are substanially more expensive comparing to other MB models. But if you find the right one, its a blast to drive. My repair cost this year for the SL is $0.

G-Benz · #4 08-12-2002, 10:38 AM

I agree about getting a StarMarked car. These cars are pretty reliable, and suprisingly, not difficult to fix...

...but when you get around to ordering parts...YEOWCH!

See my thread about the cost of replacing that gauge cluster facia...

The only thing I found of concern from reading threads in this forum is soft and hardtop operation. Needless to say, it's a complicated system, so I would guess that's where problems would begin if they ever do. SO make sure you put the prospective purchase through its paces with both tops.