There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55, but owners have filed 11 complaints with NHTSA.
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 2 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 2 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 2 | |
| Electrical System | 2 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 45,600 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Electrical System · reported Nov 27, 2023
The battery control module (known as the BCM or BNS) failed, triggering a fire. The incident occurred while the vehicle was parked in a garage and had not been operated for several weeks. The fire consumed the module, insulation on wiring connected to and close to the module, part of the trunk lining material, and burned through a total of five hydraulic lines (retractable roof hydraulics). It appears that the trunk seal limited air to the point that the fire was self extinguished. This is the only thing that saved the attached garage and house. The vehicle valued at $30,000 was determined to…
Electrical System · reported Apr 29, 2023
It appears the BCM (Battery Control Module) caught fire and burned a significant portion of the trunk and associated wiring.
Unknown or Other · reported Apr 28, 2023
My car (the SL55 and all SL models) has a "Battery Control Module" (BCM) also referred to as the "Battery Stabilization Control Load Module" which shows signs of imminent failure which will lead to a meltdown or fire. I inspected the module after finding that this was a common problem with these cars online. This model of car has been documented to completely catch on fire, even when parked after driving. I have pictures of the burnt board inside my BCM. I am very concerned as it could literally burn my house down. The typical warning for this issue is a red colored warning on the dash LCD…
Power Train · at 33,416 miles · reported Aug 26, 2015
Plastic piece on gearshift assembly broke not allowing car to be placed in gear. Is apparently a problem with 1000's of these cars based on internet search. Contacted mercedes and they said not their problem. They charge $1300.00 to fix the problem. They stated to save money on this part being replaced to take a mallet and finish breaking piece thereby rendering child safety feature useless. Apparently looking at the internet this is what 1000's of people have already done. How mercedes thinks this is a not a safety concern is beyond me. It is an extremely dangerous situation to all children…
Fuel/Propulsion System · at 54,000 miles · reported Dec 17, 2012
The contact owns a 2003 mercedes benz sl55 amg. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, he could hear something moving abnormally within the fuel tank. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where they advised him that he needed to replace the fuel tank. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and offered no assistance. The failure and current mileages were approximately 54,000.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55?
Owners report engine and engine cooling problems most often (2 reports), followed by service brakes, hydraulic (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 45,600 miles.
Are Mercedes-Benz recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.