Mercedes-Benz

SLS AMG C197 / R197 inspection checklist

2010-2014 · 3 things to check before you buy, taken from this car's known problems.

This car

mediumEarly-car fuel injector and intake manifold faults

Look for: Australian guide reports early cars had fuel-injector issues and cracked manifolds that Mercedes-AMG says were rectified under warranty.

If you find it: Check history for these repairs; get a specialist inspection.

Early cars; mostly covered in warranty period

mediumDCT software and shift quality

Look for: Slow paddle response was improved by a transmission software update; UK guides also report occasional lurching on upshifts while slowing, or the box rejecting a downshift. A UK guide says a software flash often cures occasional gremlins and that clutch position sensors can be reset to extend clutch life.

If you find it: Confirm the latest AMG software is installed; test at low speed and in manual mode.

Any

mediumCamshaft adjuster wear (M159, shared M156 design)

Look for: Owner-reported/UK guide: camshaft adjuster wear is the main engine wear item on the M159 otherwise rated as robust. M156 camshaft/lifter wear is documented; the M159 shares the basic design.

If you find it: Listen for a cold-start rattle; repair is adjuster/solenoid replacement.

Around 60,000 miles (about 100,000km) in a UK guide (unverified)

3 minor things (low severity)

lowDry-sump oil level check

Look for: The oil is in a remote tank; checking it on a cold or recently parked engine gives a wrong reading and can lead to overfilling.

If you find it: Check only warm and per the owner's manual procedure.

Any

lowRoadster roof sealing and water ingress; door alignment

Look for: UK guide: some Roadster roofs have sealing issues and water can enter getting in or out in rain; gullwing doors are difficult to align, so check gaps. Cars left with the hood folded can show creasing or fading.

If you find it: Inspect seals and door gaps; fix before it affects the hinge/latch.

Any

lowElectrical and trim gremlins on early cars

Look for: Australian guide: dash displays, sound system and power windows were affected on early cars; any problems should have been fixed by now.

If you find it: Operate every function.

Early cars

From FlamingCars' Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG guide. It's a checklist of known problems, not a replacement for a professional pre-purchase inspection. Your ticks are kept in this browser only.