2004 sl350

[Jezz147]

Hi I'm looking at trading my slk200 for a 2004 sl350 with 120,000 miles. Any particular things I should be looking out for? Thanks Jeremy

 

[Blobcat]

Hello and welcome,

2004 should have the M112 engine, which is pretty good.
R230 SL’s suffer (badly) from water ingress if the seals are not well maintained. Garages is really what you want.
Rust on rear wheel arches can be bad, caused by crud build up under the wheel arch liner

 

[Jezz147]

Thanks Stuart, any timing chain issues?

 

[Blobcat]

Thanks Stuart, any timing chain issues?

Stuart?

No timing chain issues - duplex unlike your M271

 

[Malcolm Johnson]

To my knowledge pretty bullet proof engine, not heard of timing chain issues. Steel rear wheel arches, rear window seals, all seals on a 20 year old car need inspection. Check roof opens and closes smoothly several times. Walk into this with your eyes wide open. Yes they are cheap but one Bill could be the price you pay for the car. I know this and accept it, not saying i like it !!!. I've had my SL 12 years this spring and will never sell. They get under your skin.

 

[Jezz147]

Thanks everyone, I will test drive Monday and see how it goes. No water ingress on boot and roof smooth and quick both ways.

 

[harrye500]

Jezz147 - do a search on this forum on the SL R230 - there are so so many posts from very knowledgeable people, most are long-term owners (like Malcolm)! The posts cover all of the things to look for so definitely worth a skim if you get the time. I don't even own an SL but I still read posts and articles. Much free advice on this forum to make use of!

 

[Jezz147]

Thanks

 

[harrye500]

Thanks

Good luck with the test drive!

 

[Dean Fletcher]

Hello and welcome when you buy it’s not real without photos

 

[00slk]

Just buy it

Hello and welcome

 

[mioba]

Stuart?

No timing chain issues - duplex unlike your M271

Thanks Stu

 

[mioba]

Thanks everyone, I will test drive Monday and see how it goes. No water ingress on boot and roof smooth and quick both ways.

If you have a code reader always worth taking with you

 

[Jezz147]

Thanks but I don't