Internal leaks can cause problems with the load leveling suspension in the rear; the vehicle may ride harshly (no give in the suspension, like you are riding on a brick).
Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Mercedes-Benz 600SL
Mercedes-Benz 600SL Models:
Mercedes-Benz 600SL Problems
Internal leaks in load leveling suspension in rear may cause rough ride
Suspension & Steering --
Verified
Premature Tire Wear Due to Cracked Lower Control Arm Bushings
Suspension & Steering --
Verified
The lower control arm bushings can wear and crack, resulting excessive movement at the control arm pivot point, leading to irregular and premature tire wear. Worn Ball joints can also cause similar tire wear symptoms. I some cases it may be necessary to replace the lower control arm, including bushings & ball joint to correct this concern.
Rough running motor/lack of power due to distributor cap and rotor
Exhaust & Emissions --
Verified
A rough running motor or lack of power can be caused by the distributor cap and rotor.
Tandem Hydraulic Pumps May Leak From Either Section
Suspension & Steering --
Verified
Some models have tandem hydraulic pumps—one section for power steering and the other for suspension adjustment. These pumps are prone to leakage from either section.
Squeaking/Worn Brake Pads May Require Rotor Replacement Also
Brakes --
Verified
The brakes may begin to squeak at about the 50 percent wear point. This is due to the size and material used for the brake pads and rotors. The brake rotor surfaces become uneven, causing a lip to form at the outer edge. This will generally require replacement of the rotors when the pads are worn (pad life varies depending on driving style and terrain).
Mercedes-Benz 600SL Questions and Answers
Visitor, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 600SL, Miami, FL
2000 SL600 REPLACED CATALYTIC CONVERTERS 14000 MILES AGO under warranty. Have gone bad again! $2500.00 repair. Need an alternative!!!!! Their must be a better way! Any advice?
osprey15, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 600SL, Bigfork, MT
After test drive dash gages quit, coolant temp still registers, all other guages quit working, Speedometer, Tach, fuel gage, voltmeter all failed at the same time. This is a Japanese SL600 sport co...
Write a Review About Your Car
Mercedes-Benz 600SL Reviews
Great performance on the engine side however, suspension i.e. hyd system and flat ride on failure in addition to cost to repair leave room for improvement. Known wiring harness problems can be a nightmare if left unchecked. Mercedes should step up to the plate and issue recall for effected models but refuses that's a shame. The car is a gem when at a 100% and is a timeless work of art . Down side cost more to maintain than any car of it's class given it's aforementioned issues.
Mercedes-Benz 600SL Model Years
More about this car
Recent Mercedes-Benz Repair Estimates