1997 Mercedes Benz SL320
Only 6 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 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 6
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1997
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 6 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1994 | 2 |
| 1995 | 16 |
| 1996 | 4 |
| 1997 | 6 |
| 1998 | 3 |
| 1999 | 2 |
| 2000 | 1 |
Known problem areas
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
2 of 6 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing engine.
Show complaint excerpts
While parked in a garage the consumer attempted to use the keyless entry remote but it did not unlock the vehicle. The consumer then tried to start the vehicle but it would not start.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-04-22
Also filed under Electrical system
Burn smell coming from electrical harness box. Mr the harness box was located in the trunk. The vehicle also had an oil leak.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-12-22
Electrical system
2 of 6 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing wiring.
Seat belts
2 of 6 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing pretensioner.
Show complaint excerpts
At a slow 5 MPH parking lot speed the seat belt tensioning devices ignited. The SRS system malfunctioned. There were no impacts, previous collisions, or any reason for these pre-tensioning devices to activate.
NHTSA ODI report, 2019-04-09
Wheels
1 of 6 total reports mentions: wheels, most commonly citing multi piece.
Show complaint excerpts
Chrome tire wheel is loose. Yh
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-08-23
Visibility
1 of 6 total reports mentions: visibility, most commonly citing windshield wiper/washer.
Show complaint excerpts
Single wiper blade has been replaced 3 time in 1 yr. Dealer states there is a problem with blades not lasting.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-09-30
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2000-01-18Air bags99V327000 Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Corrosion of the electrical ignition filament of the air bag gas generator module can occur if the vehicle is operated in areas of frequently high humidity.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module.
Buy-smart checklist
1997 Mercedes Benz SL320 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Seat belts: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 99V327000 · Air bags
FAQ
- Is the 1997 Mercedes Benz SL320 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 1997 Mercedes Benz SL320?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 Mercedes Benz SL320 have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.