2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500: 0 recalls, 3 owner complaints and up to 17 mpg combined.
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There isn't much public data on the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500 yet, so we start with what helps most: the repair manual options.
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
Recalls
0 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer, plus 1 equipment/tire recall that can apply. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
1 aftermarket equipment / tire recall replacement parts sold to fit this car, not the car itself
Wheels Equipment recall #06E014000 · 2006 · 31,422 vehicles
What's wrong: Certain zf trading north america aftermarket wheel bearing kits, lemfoerder p/n 1402301, sold for installation on 1992-2001 mercedes benz sl500 (r129) vehicles after April 1, 2005. The caliper mounting bolts used in the wheel bearing kit May be defective, shear off and break. If both caliper mounting bolts break, the brake caliper May become unfixed and, when the vehicle is braked, the brake rotor could drag the…
Why it matters: This could result in a loss of a portion of the vehicle's braking ability, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
The fix: Zf trading will notify its owners and repair the wheel bearing kits free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2006.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Electrical (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Transmission & drivetrain (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500 has 3 owner complaints, ranking #11 of 15 SL500 model years for complaints (well below the 15 average). Neighboring years: 2000 (2 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0 L 8-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | Rear-Wheel Drive | 14 | 21 | 17 | Premium |
FAQ
Does the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500 have any recalls?
NHTSA doesn't list any vehicle recalls for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500, but 1 equipment or tire recalls may apply. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to be sure.
What are the most common 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500 problems?
Owners have filed 3 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are electrical (2), transmission & drivetrain (1).
What gas mileage does the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500 get?
EPA ratings run up to 17 mpg combined (5.0 L, Automatic 5-spd), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500 repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.