Is the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550?

The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 29% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 have?

3 recalls on file for this model year.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550

○ Not enough data

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550
RENDERED 2026-11-01T13:54:25.925Z

Only 17 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 17 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 17
Recalls: 3
Investigations: 1
Top problem: —

Complaints per year

2013: 17 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2011	2
2013	17
2014	4
2015	2
2016	0
2017	4

Known problem areas

Only 17 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Steering

5 of 17 total reports mention: steering.

Show complaint excerpts

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering assist functionality. There was no warning light illuminated.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-12-09

Power train

4 of 17 total reports mention: power train.

Show complaint excerpts

Started the vehicle and used the gear selector to shift to Drive. Car did not go into gear. Towed to dealer. Dealer found faulty âism module.â Apparently a very common issue with these cars.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-04-12

The car suddenly slow down in highway goes to limp mode for example from 69 to 35 miles is very dangerous I have to get off the highway

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-07-04

Also filed under Engine

Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Mercedes Benz SL550. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the paddle shifters were operated and the connector plate failed without warning.

NHTSA ODI report, 2014-01-02

Also filed under Vehicle speed control

Engine

4 of 17 total reports mention: engine.

Wheels

3 of 17 total reports mention: wheels.

Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Mercedes Benz SL550. While driving at 10 MPH, the instrument panel indicated that the front driver side tire needed air.

NHTSA ODI report, 2015-08-20

Vehicle speed control

2 of 17 total reports mention: vehicle speed control.

Safety timeline

3 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2013-12-20Air bags13V542000 Mercedes-Benz (Mercedes) is recalling certain model year 2013 SL63, SL550, and SL65 vehicles manufactured January 16, 2013, through April 30, 2013. The affected vehicles are equipped with an…

Remedy: Mercedes will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side seat cushion including the OCS. The recall began on December 20, 2013. Owners may contact Mercedes at 1-201-573-0600.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

2017-10-13Steering16V899000 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric power steering control unit, free of charge. The recall began October 13, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

2019-12-23Communication19V787000 Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Remedy: MBUSA has initiated an Over the Air (OTA) remote update. MBUSA will also notify owners, and dealers will check software for a successful OTA or update the communication module software as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2019.

Check if this car was fixed →
I
2021-09-17Engineering analysisOpen Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture

Buy-smart checklist

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Steering: 5 reports on file for this year.
Power train: 4 reports on file for this year.
Engine: 4 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 13V542000 · Air bags
Recall 16V899000 · Steering
Recall 19V787000 · Communication

FAQ

Is the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550?: The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 29% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 have?: 3 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.