Windsurf1
Senior Member
- Joined
- Apr 25, 2013
- Messages
- 145
- Reaction score
- 0
- Location
- Braunton.Devon,UK
- Your Mercedes
- 2004 500SL/ V8
Since owning my 2004 500SL I’ve carried out correct preventive maintenance. It has done 59K. Reading references to ABC/SBC system problems, pumps, valve blocks and suspension struts etc I keep wondering if I was foolish in buying a 500SL rather than the 3.7 Litre? I appreciate that forums do reflect owners with problems but is the 500 a car that is a future money pit? I have to say coming from a R129 the 500SL is a lovely vehicle to drive and the V8 an inch I had to scratch! My thoughts now turn to the gearbox. At present the gearbox is performing perfectly as is the rest of the car. My respected indie' who will be carrying out the servicing has suggested that if the gearbox oil looks clean and doesn't smell, leave well alone. Mercedes want £300+ to change the gearbox oil. I'm into preventive maintenance having carried out an ABC oil/filter change and Malcom's rear wheel arch rustproofing procedure. Basically are these cars a bad buy? Thanks for any replies. Cheers J C.