Is the 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class reliable?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class scores 58/100 (D+) on OwnerKeep's reliability index, which places it in the high risk category. See the full report for the specific strengths and failure points.

What are the common problems with the 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class?

See the Common Issues section above for the top failure areas reported by real owners, with typical mileage ranges where problems start showing up.

How much does it cost to maintain a 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class?

Expected maintenance costs depend heavily on age, mileage and how well the vehicle was kept up. Run the full report for a year-by-year cost outlook.

What should I check before buying a 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class?

Focus on the top risk areas flagged in this report, review service history, and verify the vehicle is not inside one of the mileage danger zones listed above.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Reliability ReportD+ grade · high risk · system-by-system breakdown

58/ 100

KeepScore

HIGH RISK

Grade: D+

A high-performance luxury grand tourer that delivers thrills, but demands an equally grand budget for maintenance and inevitable repairs.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class

The system most likely to surface first: active body control (abc) suspension (critical severity).
No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 2004 model year.
Scores 14 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2002 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class earns a 72.

Is the 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Worth Buying?

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is an undeniably beautiful and powerful luxury convertible, offering an exceptional driving experience. However, beneath its elegant exterior lies a labyrinth of complex, high-cost systems that can quickly turn a dream car into a financial nightmare for the unprepared owner. This vehicle is a significant financial commitment beyond its purchase price; proceed only if you have a substantial repair budget and access to a trusted Mercedes specialist.

Biggest Strengths

Robust M113 V8 engine (SL500/SL55 AMG)
Exceptional build quality and luxurious interior materials
Timeless styling and strong performance character

What Tends to Fail First on the 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class

The systems that break first on the 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Active Body Control (ABC) Suspensioncritical

Vario-Roof Systemmajor

Electrical System & Electronicsmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Recall History

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Other Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class. Click any year for its full report.

All Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class years ranked →Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class years to avoid →Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class common problems →

2004 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Alternatives

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

2002 ToyotaLand Cruiser

92/100

2002 ChevroletCorvette

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Frequently Asked Questions

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