Recalls: Mercedes-Benz R231 SL-Class
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Mercedes-Benz R231 SL-Class
2014 Mercedes-Benz R231 SL-Class: airbag module could break
In August 2014, a recall was issued for Mercedes-Benz R231 SL-Class vehicles that were available for sale from 1 March 2014 to 30 May 2014. In the event of an accident which may result in the deployment of the front passenger side dash-mounted airbag, small pieces of the airbag module may break free – these may cause injury to the vehicle occupants (PRA 2014/14242).
2018-19 Mercedes-Benz R231 SL: front passenger airbag seam
In November 2019, recall campaign RC2731 was issued for Mercedes-Benz R231 SL-Class vehicles that were available for sale in Australia from 25 June 2018 to 14 January 2019. The front passenger airbag in these vehicles may not have been sewn in accordance with specifications. In the event o fa collision which triggered the front passenger airbag, this could cause a crack in the circumferential seam of the airbag – this could alter the restraint effect and increase the risk of injuries for the front passenger. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2019/17962.
Problems and faults: Mercedes-Benz R231 SL-Class
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
2013 model year Mercedes-Benz R231 SL 500: oil supply to cylinder head
In February 2013, Service Campaign Bulletin No. 2013010001 was issued for 2013 model year Mercedes-Benz R231 SL 500 vehicles that had 4.7-litre biturbo M278 V8 engines. During installation at the factory, the check valve of the left and right secondary chain tensioners may have been pressed too deep into the cylinder heads and this could compromise oil supply into the cylinder head. As part of this service campaign, the check valve of the left and right secondary chain tensioners was to be removed.
Mercedes-Benz R231 SL 350, 400 and 500: engine rattle noise after start-up
In December 2015, Mercedes-Benz issued Service Bulletin LI05.10-P-056435 Version 10 for Mercedes-Benz R231 SL 350, SL 400 and SL 500 vehicles that had the following engines:
- M2768 (SL 350 and SL 400): up to engine 2768xx 30 001281;
- M2769 (SL 350 and SL 400): up to engine 2769xx 30 406603; and
- M278 (SL 500): up to engine 2789xx 30 191843.
According to the Service Bulletin, the driver may hear a rattling noise after start-up – from the engine compartment – that lasts for several seconds. This noise was attributed to a lack of oil pressure in the secondary chain tensioners, though Mercedes-Benz claimed that no consequential damage was to be expected.
To fix, the secondary chain tensioners (left and right) were to be replaced and a check valve was to be installed in the oil supply bore of each secondary chain tensioner in the cylinder head (left and right).
