Avoid: No year grades F. Weakest: 2012
Best: 2014 (few owner reports)
3 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 2 model years, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has 13 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and fuel/propulsion system. 2012 drew the most complaints (7), 2011 the fewest (6).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $150,746–$452,493.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 2012 (7 complaints). Lowest: 2011 (6).
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment characterized by deep appreciation for its design, status as a modern icon, and its naturally aspirated V8 engine.
Acknowledged as an expensive vehicle to maintain, with complex systems like the transmission, lifters, and head bolts on the M156 engine requiring vigilant and costly care.
The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (referred to as a DSG) is cited as having repair or replacement costs reaching approximately $40,000 USD.
Owner insights cover all generations of the SLS AMG. Individual model years are broken down above.
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