Is the 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class reliable?

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class scores 62/100 (C) on OwnerKeep's reliability index, which places it in the moderate risk category. See the full report for the specific strengths and failure points.

What are the common problems with the 2009 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 2009 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 2009 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.

HomeVehicles

Vehicles Compare Blog Get Report

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

2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class Reliability ReportKeepScore 62/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

62/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C

A phenomenal luxury experience at a steep maintenance cost, requiring a substantial reserve for inevitable, complex repairs.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class

Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2010 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class earns a 68.
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 2009 model year.

2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class: Buy or Avoid?

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is a breathtaking luxury roadster, offering unparalleled style and performance that comes with a significant caveat: ownership costs can be astronomical. While fundamentally well-engineered, complex systems like the ABC suspension and retractable hardtop are prone to expensive failures, making it a high-maintenance proposition for even the most diligent owner.

Biggest Strengths

Robust engine options (if maintained)
Luxurious, high-quality interior materials
Sophisticated ride comfort (when ABC functions)

2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Active Body Control (ABC) Suspensioncritical

Retractable Hardtop Mechanismmajor

Electrical System & COMAND Unitmoderate

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

Safety Recalls on the 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class?

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

OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time

Just bought a 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class? Keep it that way.

Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.

Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class — Year-by-Year Comparison

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 →

Competing 2009s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

2007 ToyotaLand Cruiser

2007 ChevroletCorvette

Relevant Products for Your 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class

Parts and accessories matched to your 2009 Mercedes-Benz Sl-Class

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report