Recalls: Mercedes R231 SL 63 and SL 65 AMG
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 R231 SL 63 and SL 65 AMG
2014 Mercedes R231 SL 63 and SL 65 AMG: airbag module could break
In August 2014, a recall was issued for 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-AMG R231 SL 63 and SL 65: front passenger airbag seam
In November 2019, recall campaign RC2731 was issued for Mercedes-AMG R231 SL 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 R231 SL 63 and SL 65 AMG
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.
Mercedes-Benz R231 SL 63 AMG (M157 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 63 AMG vehicles that had M157 engines with engine numbers up to 1579xx 60 047752.
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).
