Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Convertible (2012 -) Safety & Reliability

Review by Parkers on
Last Updated: 04 Apr 2017
4
Sporty, elegant and stylish, the Mercedes-Benz SL has a lot of appeal. Then again, there are hardly any shrinking violets in this sector.

5 out of 5

Safety

NCAP Test

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Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

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Expect the Mercedes-Benz SL to receive five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests. It comes with front, side and curtain airbags as well as pop-up roll-over hoop protection. Just about every known electronic driver aid is fitted to help prevent the driver losing control, including adaptive braking, stability control, anti-skid control and traction control.

The Mercedes-Benz also includes attention assist, which warns you if it thinks you are tired, as well as Pre-Safe which prepares the car’s safety systems if it thinks a collision is imminent.

3.5 out of 5

Reliability

The SL has had a chequered past in terms of reliability. There was a recall in 2004 following concerns about reduced braking efficiency and another in 2005 for an issue where the brake pedal required more effort than expected. Then in 2008 there was a further recall for a potential problem with the Active Body Control, which can affect driving stability.

More recent cars have proven to be more reliable.

Car check problem points

Body

Check for any damage around the underside of the car, caused by kerbs or speed bumps.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported

Other

Make sure the roof goes up and down without any issues.