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I got extended warranty from dealer

I just purchased a CPO 2007 SL550 from a local MB dealer. It came with CPO 1 yr warranty and I bought another 2 yrs to follow that (cost $4k.) It is serviced by any MB dealer. I believe it is only available for extending a CPO vehicle though.

I did find some after market extended warranty companies willing to supply me a quote. I was looking at them to see what the cost was compared to what Mercedes was going to charge me.

 

Hi aslowdodge and welcome. It is generally accepted that the earlier the R230 (SL series from '03 - '12) the more trouble prone they can be. This is particularly true of the ABC - Active Body Control system. There were improvements in '04 and/or '05 which help in the longevity department (the crimp connectors on the hydraulic hoses for instance). I bought a 2005 as I felt a little extra money for a few years newer would be money well spent. 2007 should be that much better.

These cars are generally very reliable considering their extreme complexity. There were some issues early on but recalls and repairs should have taken care of most of these issues by now. These early issues don't pertain to a 2007.

If you decide to purchase an extended warranty PLEASE read VERY CAREFULLY exactly what is covered under suspension repair. The majority of issues (especially expensive issues) come from the ABC suspension system on the R230. Be certain any extended warranty you buy covers replacement of dampers (shocks), ABC pump, and hydraulic hoses at a minimum. Ideally accumulators and valve blocks would be covered as well. If this is not clearly stated be sure to ask in writing and if the company agrees these items are covered than hold on to that paper!

IMHO an extended warranty on a R230 that doesn't cover the ABC system is wasted money.

That said, a later car like a 2007 should have minimal issues to begin with.

Also, many of the issues that pop up with the ABC system can be prevented with routine (every 50,000 or so miles) fluid flushes and taking care of problems at the very first sign of any trouble. Small issues can get real expensive real fast with the ABC suspension.

That said the SL is a fantastic car.

Let us know what you decide,

 

I just purchased an OEM (bumper to bumper coverage) for my 2007 SL 550. It is difficult to find an exclusionary type policy for these cars. But that is absolutely what you want. For a 3yr 36k policy - expect to pay around $6k. For a 4yr 48k policy expect the price to be closer to $7k. If you get a Major Component "only" policy, you can cut that price in half. But beware, ALL the major high cost items are only covered in the OEM/Exclusionary policys. It just kills me to pay $6700 for a 4 yr policy. But if you plan on keeping the car - grin and bear it. However, if you decide to sell the car later - you can command a MUCH higher price if your car has a warranty. They are all transferable.

 

These cars aren't THAT unreliable!! . $3k to $6k !!

In four years I have changes ABC pump $600. Fixed a door catch $20 and am about to change the laser in the CD changer for $15. Some servicing and front discs and pads ($150) but a warranty wouldn't cover these)

If you are that worried put the warranty money in a savings account

Buy a decent car though !! It never failed to amaze me when I was looking for mine how badly some of these cars are looked after

 

m60kaf is right - these are generally good and reliable cars. But if you already have over 50k miles and plan to keep it as a daily driver for the next several years - then consider a warranty.