Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (2002 - 2011) SL 500 2d Auto Owner Review

I bought my SL500 from one previous owner for 18 years and low milage. It was like new and had FSH and all receipts for work including a new ABC valve block in 2008. I was aware of all the potential issues but bought it anyway as I really like the car. Everything was working until I left it out in the rain for a couple of days. Front dash was lit up like the proverbial Xmas tree and on opening the boot found 6 inches of water in the bottom and all the electronics soaked...you fool Reid...why didn't you keep it in the dry? The delicate pumps and wiring are all helpfully encased in a big sponge box that had also absorbed about a litre of rain water. The car still drove fine but I couldn't open the boot, lock the doors or open the roof. So repairs to have that fixed came in at £2000 by a Mercedes specialist. The PSE pump new is 900 plus the vodka and tonic alone. The two batteries needed replacing and it is important these are kept topped up with charge. I never drive it over speed bumps and spend most of my time behind the wheel watching out for pot-holes and waiting for the next batch of warning messages to appear on the dashboard. If the dreaded ABC suspension goes it could potentially be £££££'s. But...with all that said I still love the car and now only drive it when the sun shines or there is absolutely no chance of wet weather. I do get offers from folks to buy it but wouldn't part as there are fewer than ever around now probably because it is cheaper to tow them to a breakers yard and be done with it. Doug.