2004 Mercedes Benz SL
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1990 | 1 |
| 1991 | 1 |
| 1992 | 1 |
| 1993 | 2 |
| 1994 | 15 |
| 1995 | 13 |
| 2003 | 3 |
| 2004 | 2 |
| 2006 | 1 |
| 2007 | 1 |
| 2011 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING 30MPH, SUDDENLY THE CAR STARTED ROCKING FROM SIDE TO SIDE. I HELD THE STEERING WHEEL FIRMLY, BUT THE CAR STARTED MOVING TO THE RIGHT, SO I STOPPED THE CAR AND TURNED OFF THE ENGINE. IT APPEARED TO BE A SUSPENSION PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120620
1 of 2 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING 30MPH, SUDDENLY THE CAR STARTED ROCKING FROM SIDE TO SIDE. I HELD THE STEERING WHEEL FIRMLY, BUT THE CAR STARTED MOVING TO THE RIGHT, SO I STOPPED THE CAR AND TURNED OFF THE ENGINE. IT APPEARED TO BE A SUSPENSION PROBLEM.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120620
1 of 2 total reports mentions: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
A POUNDING NOISE (LIKE A HAMMER HITTING A 2X4) OCCURRED REPEATEDLY WHENEVER I STARTED OR STOPPED. IT TURNED OUT TO BE A FAILURE OF THE BAFFLES INSIDE THE GAS TANK AND REQUIRED A REPLACEMENT OF THE GAS TANK AT A COST OF OVER $2000.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120609
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2004 Mercedes Benz SL — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2004 Mercedes Benz SL reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2004 Mercedes Benz SL?
The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2004 Mercedes Benz SL have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.