2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Exceptional reliability with zero recalls and zero consumer complaints reported for the 2018 model year.
- The SL-Class offers potent performance, with horsepower ranging from 362 to 621 hp and torque from 369 to 765 lb-ft.
- Available with 7-speed or 9-speed automatic transmissions, paired with rear-wheel drive.
- NHTSA has not provided overall safety ratings for this specific model year.
2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
Critical Failure Risk
Exceptional reliability with zero recalls and zero consumer complaints reported for the 2018 model year.
Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 362–621HP
- Torque
- 369–765 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by small boot, limited door access, and limited seating.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Enthusiasts seeking a luxurious, high-performance convertible with a strong reliability track record.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Budget-conscious buyers who may be unprepared for the potential high cost of maintenance and parts for a luxury German convertible.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class.
Limited reliability records are available for this model year.
Vehicle Specs
- Seating Capacity
- 2
- Horsepower
- 362-621 hp
- Torque
- 369-765 lb-ft
- Transmission
- 7-speed automatic, 9-speed automatic
- Drivetrain
- RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Chassis Cab
- MSRP Range
- $88,200 - $222,000
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See the full 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
No complaint hotspot data available yet.
See all common issues in the maintenance guideFirst Service Interval
- Synthetic Oil Change (5W-40) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)
Est. shop cost: $200 - $350
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class for daily use?
Practicality score is 3.2/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot, limited door access, and limited seating. Seating capacity is 2. 2 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 345 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 3.2/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Synthetic Oil Change (5W-40) (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500.
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
MSRP range is $88,200 - $222,000.
What engine is in the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
Engine specs list V6, V8, V12. Output is 362-621 hp • 369-765 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, transmission is 7-speed automatic, 9-speed automatic. The paired drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
10 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, fuel economy range is 13-28 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, seating capacity is 2.
What body style is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, body style is chassis_cab.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is 7-speed automatic, 9-speed automatic.