1995 Mercedes Benz SL500
Only 22 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 22 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 |
|---|---|
| 1992 | 2 |
| 1993 | 6 |
| 1994 | 8 |
| 1995 | 22 |
| 1996 | 6 |
| 1997 | 9 |
| 1998 | 6 |
| 1999 | 2 |
| 2000 | 2 |
| 2001 | 3 |
| 2003 | 80 |
| 2004 | 45 |
| 2005 | 19 |
| 2006 | 13 |
| 2009 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 22 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
18 of 22 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing wiring.
FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
91-96 MERCEDES ENGINE WIRE HARNESS DISINTEGRATES COMPLETELY TO SHORTING OUT ALL GAUGES AND ENGINE OPERATIONS. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS... DEADLY DANGEROUS . THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND RECALLED IMMEDIATELY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20170818
Also filed under UNKNOWN OR OTHER
CAR STALLED IN TRAFFIC DUE TO WIRING HARNESS FAILURE. STARTED SMALL FIRE THAT WAS EXTINGUISHED BEFORE ANY SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE. I REPLACED THE WIRING HARNESS AND CLEANED ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20061101
CAR CAN HARDLY RUN--WITHOUT STALLING-HARD TO START MERCEDES DEALER SAID TO SELL IT BECAUSE OF WIRING PROBLEMS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20181220
Also filed under ENGINE and AIR BAGS
4 of 22 total reports mention: engine.
3 of 22 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
2 of 22 total reports mention: steering.
2 of 22 total reports mention: electronic stability control (esc).
FIRESAFETY TIMELINE
CERTAIN ZF TRADING NORTH AMERICA AFTERMARKET WHEEL BEARING KITS, LEMFOERDER P/N 1402301, SOLD FOR INSTALLATION ON 1992-2001 MERCEDES BENZ SL500 (R129) VEHICLES AFTER APRIL 1, 2005. THE CALIPER MOUNTI
Remedy: ZF TRADING WILL NOTIFY ITS OWNERS AND REPAIR THE WHEEL BEARING KITS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 27, 2006.
Campaign 06E014000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1995 Mercedes Benz SL500 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (18 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 06E014000 (wheels) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1995 Mercedes Benz SL500 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 1995 Mercedes Benz SL500?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 82% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1995 Mercedes Benz SL500 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.