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2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 14, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

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.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and open-top motoring. For the used car buyer, this model year stands out due to its remarkable lack of reported issues. With zero recalls and zero consumer complaints logged by NHTSA, the SL-Class demonstrates exceptional initial reliability. This translates to a potentially lower ownership risk and fewer unexpected repair bills, a significant advantage in the pre-owned market. While official safety ratings are not available, the absence of reported problems points to a well-built vehicle.

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.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
362–621HP
Torque
369–765 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
13-28 mpg combined
Published range
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.1/ 10

Practicality

3.2/ 10

The score is mainly limited by small boot, limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

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.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

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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Most Common Issues

No complaint hotspot data available yet.

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First 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

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

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.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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