What are the common problems with the SL65 AMG?

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The **SL65 AMG** (especially the 2006 R230 generation with the M275 V12 biturbo) is an incredible machine, but it comes with some well-documented Achilles' heels you should know about. Here's what frequently goes wrong:

## 1. ABC (Active Body Control) Suspension — The Big One
The hydraulic ABC system is **notorious** for being the costliest weakness. Common failures include:
- **Hydraulic leaks** from lines, valve blocks, and struts
- **ABC pump failure** — a very expensive component
- **Strut/shock leaks** — replacing just the *rear* struts can run around **$2,400 each** (nearly $5,000 for the pair)

Many owners eventually convert to coil springs to eliminate the complexity, though this sacrifices the signature ride quality.

## 2. Engine Misfires & Ignition — The "Deadly" Issue
The M275's ignition system can be problematic:
- **Coil pack failures** are common (this matches the FAQ on your listing!)
- **Persistent random misfires** under hard acceleration — one owner reportedly spent **over $80,000** over 5 years chasing a misfire that occurs when stressing the engine above 5,000 RPM
- These can be tricky to diagnose since the V12 has two cylinder banks with separate ignition systems

## 3. Engine & Transmission Mounts
A classic R230 issue — the **engine mounts fail** and allow excess movement, which then destroys the **transmission mount**. The FAQ mentions this specifically! Best practice is replacing all three mounts together. You'll feel this as increased vibration and harshness, especially at idle.

## 4. Turbo System & Oil Consumption
The M275's twin turbos can suffer from:
- **Turbo seal failures** leading to oil consumption and blue smoke
- Oil makes its way into the intake plumbing

## 5. Vario Roof Hydraulics
The convertible top's hydraulic system is another common failure point — pumps, cylinders, and lines can leak. Given this car is 20 years old, the original hydraulic fluid and seals are aging.

## 6. Fuel Tank Baffle
The internal baffle in the gas tank can break loose (~$2,600 repair), causing a sloshing noise and potential fuel delivery issues.

## 7. General Electrical Gremlins
- **Parking sensors** (front and rear) frequently fail
- **Seat heaters** and **CD changer** issues
- Various sensor failures

## The Bottom Line for *This* Car

At **48,650 miles**, this SL65 has relatively low mileage, but at **20 years old**, age-related issues are just as relevant as mileage-related ones. The "Original & Highly Original" condition is promising, but I'd specifically want to verify:

- **When were the coil packs last replaced?** (If ever — they may be original!)
- **Have the engine and transmission mounts been done?** 
- **ABC system health** — any warning lights, sagging overnight, or pump noise?
- **Service history** on the ABC fluid changes (should be every ~40k miles)

The asking price of ~$60K seems reasonable for the market, but budget **$5,000–$10,000 annually** for maintenance if you plan to keep it long-term. These are $180K+ cars when new with very complex systems!

Want me to find some comparable SL65s with more detailed service records, or dig deeper into any specific concern?

Lot B7573: 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

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Lot B7573: 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

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