Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Mercedes-Benz 300SL
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Models:
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Problems
Engine Oil and Coolant Leaks Resulting in Fulid Intermix
Internal and External engine oil & coolant leaks can develop from the head gasket and/or timing cover gasket; these leaks should be repaired before the engine oil and coolant intermix which can result in severe engine damage.
Coolant Leak/Overheating Due to Radiator Leak
A coolant leak may develop form the Radiator due to degradation of its plastic components. Replacement of the failed radiator will be necessary.
High Usage Vehicles May Experience Ignition Lock and Tumbler Failures
On high usage vehicles, the ignition lock may become difficult to turn due to wear of the ignition lock and tumblers. Replacement of the ignition lock cylinder will generally be required to correct this concern.
Hard/Soft Tops May Develop Problems Due to Age
As vehicles age, various problems may develop with the hard and soft tops. If problems are encountered, it would be recommended to have a technician familiar with these tops perform the diagnoses.
Check Belt Tensioner When Replacing Water Pump
A coolant leak may develop from the water pump. When replacing the water pump, the drive belt tensioner should be inspected and most likely replaced as well.
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Questions and Answers
car is 1983 380 sl starts up and kinda idles with a little missing
The hard top will not release at the windshield. Any ideas
this car is actually a 1984 380SL . It only blows cold air and no warm or hot air at all, even in the heat position. I wonder if the diverter door is stuck.....or..... any help out there? Just pu...
Where is the oil filter located
soft top does not open. Replaced switch control modual was
rebuilt
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Stories
My 1991 SL mercedes is a beautiful car. When it sits for a long period, once driven, it cuts off. The car will start after sitting a couple of hours. Restart car and drives fine.
Nice car but does have a number of issues after 20+ years. There is a wealth of information and help on the MB forums. The bad "green" wires came in 1994 for a few years. And, EZL's do NOT explode. (Where does this stuff come from?)
the best car I ever had
1) the electrical wire issue. Basically this makes the car a rolling wreck with it only a matter of time before they short out and your entire computer system and or EZL explodes...anyone out there care to guess how much that would cost (an EZL for this particular car is extremely expensive) I was told that the insullation was designed to be GREEN and biodegrade...which is why it falls apart...I really think Mercedes owes anyone still owning/driving some sort of help on this
Most reliable, affordable (used car) I have ever owned. And i have had many! Maintenance is cheaper than my mini van, if you go to the right place. I go to Collie Autoworks in San Rafael Ca. Darren and Denise are the ABSOLUTE BEST. I LOVE this CAR !!!