MOT Risk Index.co.uk

Mercedes-Benz SL MOT pass rate and common problems

85.5% of Mercedes-Benz SLs passed the 2024 MOT (21,309 first tests): 82.9% at the first attempt and 2.6% after a fix at the test centre (PRS). About 1 in 5 failed the first attempt. For its age, it fails 52% less often than normal: MOT Risk Index 47.6 (95% CI 46.2–49.0; 100 = normal).

Mercedes-Benz SL at a glance, 2024 MOT
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
MOT pass rate85.5%incl. 2.6% fixed at the test centre202421309
Passed at the first attempt82.9%all first tests202421309
MOT Risk Index (95% CI 46.2–49.0)47.6index100 = normal for its age · rank 93 of 761 (1 = fails least for its age)202421309
Biggest excess: Tyres6.2per 1008.5 same-age2019–2024110850
Dangerous defects6.0per 10011.2 UK, not age-adjusted2019–2024110850
Advisory items95.2per 100127.1 UK, not age-adjusted2019–2024110850
strip · Mercedes-Benz SL · MOT Risk Index · 47.6 vs 100 = normal · 2024
MOT Risk Index · Mercedes-Benz SL. 0–240; 100 = normal for its age; median model 92.8 · rank 93 of 761 (1 = fails least for its age). It would rank between 87 and 97 anywhere within its 95% interval, other models held where they are. DVSA, 2024.
Mercedes-Benz SL index position among 761 models
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Rank93of 761published models, 1 = fails least for its age202421309
Best rank within its 95% interval87rankother models held where they are202421309
Worst rank within its 95% interval97rankother models held where they are202421309

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Data release dvsa-2024-v2 (24 Sep 2026) · full dataset (v5). This model's index changed from 43.0 to 47.6 in the 24 September 2026 release, after duplicate test records were removed.

What actually fails on a Mercedes-Benz SL MOT, and how often?

Mercedes-Benz SL MOTs fail most often on suspension: 8.9 per 100 tests, against 22.3 for UK cars of the same age (2019–2024, n = 110,850).

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Suspension · 8.9 vs 22.3 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension8.9per 10022.32019–20249839
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment7.4per 10027.62019–20248257
Tyres6.2per 1008.52019–20246866
Brakes5.6per 100182019–20246217
Visibility4.9per 10010.42019–20245462
Noise, emissions and leaks2.1per 1006.72019–20242362

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 110,850 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Tyres, brakes and suspension: how does the Mercedes-Benz SL compare with cars of the same age?

The biggest excess for the Mercedes-Benz SL is tyres at age 6: 6.5 failures per 100 tests, against 5.5 for same-age cars of comparable models (2019–2024, n = 4,860).

bullet · Mercedes-Benz SL · Tyres, age 3 · 4.7 vs 4.2 · 2019–2024
Tyres, age 3: 4.7 vs 4.2. Brakes, age 3: 0.1 vs 1.8. Suspension, age 3: 0.4 vs 0.6. Tyres, age 4: 4.8 vs 4.5. Brakes, age 4: 0.1 vs 2.4. Suspension, age 4: 0.3 vs 1.2. Tyres, age 5: 5.6 vs 5.1. Brakes, age 5: 0.4 vs 3.1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres, age 34.7per 1004.22019–20242711
Brakes, age 30.1per 1001.82019–20242711
Suspension, age 30.4per 1000.62019–20242711
Tyres, age 44.8per 1004.52019–20243322
Brakes, age 40.1per 1002.42019–20243322
Suspension, age 40.3per 1001.22019–20243322
Tyres, age 55.6per 1005.12019–20244202
Brakes, age 50.4per 1003.12019–20244202
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension, age 50.6per 1002.22019–20244202
Tyres, age 66.5per 1005.52019–20244860
Brakes, age 60.6per 1003.82019–20244860
Suspension, age 61.1per 1003.72019–20244860
Tyres, age 75.9per 1006.02019–20244771
Brakes, age 70.7per 1004.52019–20244771
Suspension, age 71.3per 1005.72019–20244771
Tyres, age 85.3per 1006.32019–20244298
Brakes, age 81.4per 1005.42019–20244298
Suspension, age 81.5per 1007.82019–20244298

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Will my Mercedes-Benz SL's advisory become a fail at the next MOT?

Mercedes-Benz SL advisories turn into fails less often than on the median model; the one to watch is lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: advisories on it became a fail at the next MOT 14.7% of the time.

funnel · Mercedes-Benz SL · Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment · 14.7 vs median model · 2019–2024
Advisories on lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: 14.7 of 100 became a fail on the same item at the next MOT. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment14.7% next failmedian model2019–20241046
Suspension12.8% next failmedian model2019–20248723
Tyres8.8% next failmedian model2019–202413554
Steering8.4% next failmedian model2019–20241237
Brakes7.6% next failmedian model2019–202413105
Body, chassis, structure4.3% next failmedian model2019–20241339
Noise, emissions and leaks3.3% next failmedian model2019–20243767
Identification of the vehicle2.1% next failmedian model2019–2024869
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Road wheels1.7% next failmedian model2019–2024767
Non-component advisories0% next failmedian model2019–20242181

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

My Mercedes-Benz SL got an MOT advisory: what gets flagged most?

Mercedes-Benz SL MOTs flag brakes most: 30.6 advisories per 100 tests, against 34.7 across UK tests (2019–2024, n = 110,850).

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Brakes · 30.6 vs 34.7 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Brakes30.6per 10034.72019–202433891
Tyres28.9per 10039.72019–202432044
Suspension19per 10026.22019–202421051
Noise, emissions and leaks5.4per 1005.22019–20245999
Non-component advisories2.9per 1007.82019–20243178
Body, chassis, structure2.2per 1004.62019–20242441

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 110,850 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What is likely to fail next on a Mercedes-Benz SL?

For Mercedes-Benz SLs aged 15 to 19 whose last MOT was a pass, the item most likely to fail at the next MOT is suspension: 6.2% failed on it (2019–2024, n = 13,246).

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Tyres, under 3 years old, after a pass · 3.7 vs baseline · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres, under 3 years old, after a pass3.7% next fail2019–20241601
Visibility, under 3 years old, after a pass1.9% next fail2019–20241601
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–20241601
Identification of the vehicle, under 3 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20241601
Suspension, under 3 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20241601
Road wheels, under 3 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20241601
Tyres, under 3 years old, after an advisory (rough estimate: 186 cars)10.2% next fail2019–2024186
Tyres, under 3 years old, after a fail (rough estimate: 156 cars)3.9% next fail2019–2024156
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass4.7% next fail2019–20247549
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass2.1% next fail2019–20247549
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass1.3% next fail2019–20247549
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–20247549
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20247549
Noise, emissions and leaks, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20247549
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20247549
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–20247549
Body, chassis, structure, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–20247549
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory9.1% next fail2019–20241613
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory3.2% next fail2019–20241613
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory1.7% next fail2019–20241613
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory1.4% next fail2019–20241613
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.8% next fail2019–20241613
Noise, emissions and leaks, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.7% next fail2019–20241613
Road wheels, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20241613
Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail6.5% next fail2019–2024942
Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail5.5% next fail2019–2024942
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail2.1% next fail2019–2024942
Suspension, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail1.6% next fail2019–2024942
Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail1.2% next fail2019–2024942
Noise, emissions and leaks, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail1.0% next fail2019–2024942
Identification of the vehicle, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail0.9% next fail2019–2024942
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass4.5% next fail2019–20247596
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass2.4% next fail2019–20247596
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass2.3% next fail2019–20247596
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass1.6% next fail2019–20247596
Noise, emissions and leaks, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass1.1% next fail2019–20247596
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.9% next fail2019–20247596
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20247596
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20247596
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–20247596
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–20247596
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory9% next fail2019–20242288
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory4.1% next fail2019–20242288
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory3.0% next fail2019–20242288
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory2.9% next fail2019–20242288
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory2.3% next fail2019–20242288
Noise, emissions and leaks, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory1.8% next fail2019–20242288
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory1.2% next fail2019–20242288
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–20242288
Body, chassis, structure, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–20242288
Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail8.1% next fail2019–20241403
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail4.0% next fail2019–20241403
Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail4.0% next fail2019–20241403
Suspension, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail3.3% next fail2019–20241403
Noise, emissions and leaks, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail3.1% next fail2019–20241403
Brakes, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail2.6% next fail2019–20241403
Road wheels, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail1.2% next fail2019–20241403
Identification of the vehicle, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail0.7% next fail2019–20241403
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass4.9% next fail2019–20243762
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass3.7% next fail2019–20243762
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass3.1% next fail2019–20243762
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass2.8% next fail2019–20243762
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass1.7% next fail2019–20243762
Noise, emissions and leaks, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass1.5% next fail2019–20243762
Road wheels, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–20243762
Body, chassis, structure, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20243762
Identification of the vehicle, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20243762
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass0.2% next fail2019–20243762
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory8.4% next fail2019–20241445
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory7.3% next fail2019–20241445
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory4.6% next fail2019–20241445
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory4.3% next fail2019–20241445
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory4.2% next fail2019–20241445
Noise, emissions and leaks, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory2.4% next fail2019–20241445
Body, chassis, structure, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20241445
Identification of the vehicle, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20241445
Road wheels, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20241445
Tyres, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail7.6% next fail2019–20241080
Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail6.6% next fail2019–20241080
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail5.7% next fail2019–20241080
Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail3.7% next fail2019–20241080
Brakes, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail3.6% next fail2019–20241080
Noise, emissions and leaks, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail3.1% next fail2019–20241080
Road wheels, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail1.1% next fail2019–20241080
Identification of the vehicle, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail0.6% next fail2019–20241080
Body, chassis, structure, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail0.5% next fail2019–20241080
Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass5.5% next fail2019–20244266
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass3.5% next fail2019–20244266
Tyres, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass3.5% next fail2019–20244266
Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass3.0% next fail2019–20244266
Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass2.4% next fail2019–20244266
Noise, emissions and leaks, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.7% next fail2019–20244266
Road wheels, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.5% next fail2019–20244266
Steering, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–20244266
Body, chassis, structure, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20244266
Identification of the vehicle, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–20244266
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–20244266
Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory9.1% next fail2019–20242095
Tyres, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory7.1% next fail2019–20242095
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory5.7% next fail2019–20242095
Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory5.3% next fail2019–20242095
Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory5.3% next fail2019–20242095
Noise, emissions and leaks, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory1.2% next fail2019–20242095
Identification of the vehicle, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.7% next fail2019–20242095
Body, chassis, structure, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.6% next fail2019–20242095
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20242095
Road wheels, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20242095
Steering, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–20242095
Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail10.5% next fail2019–20241439
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail7.2% next fail2019–20241439
Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail6.9% next fail2019–20241439
Tyres, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail6.7% next fail2019–20241439
Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail6.6% next fail2019–20241439
Noise, emissions and leaks, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail2.0% next fail2019–20241439
Body, chassis, structure, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail1.0% next fail2019–20241439
Identification of the vehicle, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail1.0% next fail2019–20241439
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail1.0% next fail2019–20241439
Road wheels, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail0.8% next fail2019–20241439
Steering, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail0.8% next fail2019–20241439
Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass6.2% next fail2019–202413246
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass3.9% next fail2019–202413246
Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass3.5% next fail2019–202413246
Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass3.2% next fail2019–202413246
Tyres, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass2.7% next fail2019–202413246
Noise, emissions and leaks, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.9% next fail2019–202413246
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.7% next fail2019–202413246
Body, chassis, structure, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–202413246
Steering, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.6% next fail2019–202413246
Identification of the vehicle, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–202413246
Road wheels, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–202413246
Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory10.6% next fail2019–20247629
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory7.7% next fail2019–20247629
Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory6.1% next fail2019–20247629
Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory5.9% next fail2019–20247629
Tyres, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory5.7% next fail2019–20247629
Noise, emissions and leaks, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory1.5% next fail2019–20247629
Steering, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory1.3% next fail2019–20247629
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory1.2% next fail2019–20247629
Body, chassis, structure, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory1.0% next fail2019–20247629
Road wheels, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20247629
Identification of the vehicle, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–20247629
Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail11.6% next fail2019–20244999
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail9.9% next fail2019–20244999
Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail6.8% next fail2019–20244999
Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail6.7% next fail2019–20244999
Tyres, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail5.3% next fail2019–20244999
Noise, emissions and leaks, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail1.9% next fail2019–20244999
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail1.7% next fail2019–20244999
Steering, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail1.5% next fail2019–20244999
Body, chassis, structure, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail1.3% next fail2019–20244999
Identification of the vehicle, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail0.9% next fail2019–20244999
Road wheels, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail0.7% next fail2019–20244999
Suspension, 20 years or older, after a pass5.7% next fail2019–202410706
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 20 years or older, after a pass4.2% next fail2019–202410706
Visibility, 20 years or older, after a pass3.4% next fail2019–202410706
Brakes, 20 years or older, after a pass2.7% next fail2019–202410706
Noise, emissions and leaks, 20 years or older, after a pass2.1% next fail2019–202410706
Steering, 20 years or older, after a pass1.9% next fail2019–202410706
Tyres, 20 years or older, after a pass1.2% next fail2019–202410706
Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after a pass1.1% next fail2019–202410706
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 20 years or older, after a pass0.4% next fail2019–202410706
Identification of the vehicle, 20 years or older, after a pass0.3% next fail2019–202410706
Road wheels, 20 years or older, after a pass0.1% next fail2019–202410706
Suspension, 20 years or older, after an advisory11.0% next fail2019–20246054
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 20 years or older, after an advisory8.1% next fail2019–20246054
Visibility, 20 years or older, after an advisory6.8% next fail2019–20246054
Brakes, 20 years or older, after an advisory5.7% next fail2019–20246054
Steering, 20 years or older, after an advisory4.1% next fail2019–20246054
Tyres, 20 years or older, after an advisory3.4% next fail2019–20246054
Noise, emissions and leaks, 20 years or older, after an advisory3.1% next fail2019–20246054
Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after an advisory2.4% next fail2019–20246054
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 20 years or older, after an advisory1.1% next fail2019–20246054
Identification of the vehicle, 20 years or older, after an advisory0.4% next fail2019–20246054
Road wheels, 20 years or older, after an advisory0.3% next fail2019–20246054
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 20 years or older, after a fail11.6% next fail2019–20244260
Suspension, 20 years or older, after a fail10.4% next fail2019–20244260
Visibility, 20 years or older, after a fail7.2% next fail2019–20244260
Brakes, 20 years or older, after a fail6.3% next fail2019–20244260
Steering, 20 years or older, after a fail5.1% next fail2019–20244260
Noise, emissions and leaks, 20 years or older, after a fail4.4% next fail2019–20244260
Tyres, 20 years or older, after a fail3.1% next fail2019–20244260
Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after a fail2.7% next fail2019–20244260
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 20 years or older, after a fail1.4% next fail2019–20244260
Identification of the vehicle, 20 years or older, after a fail0.4% next fail2019–20244260
Road wheels, 20 years or older, after a fail0.4% next fail2019–20244260
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, an unknown age, after a pass (rough estimate: 42 cars)11.9% next fail2019–202442
Suspension, an unknown age, after a pass (rough estimate: 42 cars)11.9% next fail2019–202442
Visibility, an unknown age, after a fail (rough estimate: 105 cars)10.5% next fail2019–2024105
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, an unknown age, after a fail (rough estimate: 105 cars)8.6% next fail2019–2024105
Brakes, an unknown age, after a fail (rough estimate: 105 cars)5.7% next fail2019–2024105
Noise, emissions and leaks, an unknown age, after a fail (rough estimate: 105 cars)4.8% next fail2019–2024105
Steering, an unknown age, after a fail (rough estimate: 105 cars)4.8% next fail2019–2024105

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How often does a Mercedes-Benz SL get a dangerous MOT defect?

The Mercedes-Benz SL gets a dangerous defect less often than the UK average: 6.0 per 100 first tests against 11.2 across the UK. In the same tests, 24.7 major and 9.1 minor defects were recorded per 100 tests (one test can record several).

bullet · Mercedes-Benz SL · Dangerous defects · 6.0 vs 11.2 · 2019–2024
Dangerous defects: 6 vs 11.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Dangerous defects6.0per 10011.22019–2024110850

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 110,850 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id; severity not recorded for some 2018–2021 tests · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Will my Mercedes-Benz SL still pass its MOT in a few years?

First-time MOT failures for the Mercedes-Benz SL go from 11.4% at age 3 (rough estimate: 35 tests, 95% interval 4.5–25.9%) to 18.5% at age 19, against 43.5% for all cars aged 19 (2024, n = 21,309).

line · Mercedes-Benz SL · Age 3 (rough estimate: 35 tests, 95% interval 4.5–25.9%) · 11.4 vs 12.4 · 2024
Age 3 (rough estim: 11.4. Age 19: 18.5. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 3 (rough estimate: 35 tests, 95% interval 4.5–25.9%)11.4% failed first time12.4202435
Age 4 (rough estimate: 212 tests, 95% interval 4.3–11.3%)7.1% failed first time13.12024212
Age 5 (rough estimate: 414 tests, 95% interval 5.1–10.2%)7.2% failed first time15.12024414
Age 6 (rough estimate: 408 tests, 95% interval 7.5–13.4%)10.1% failed first time17.52024408
Age 79.4% failed first time20.22024647
Age 810.3% failed first time23.32024776
Age 914.1% failed first time26.52024820
Age 1013.5% failed first time30.120241064
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1118.0% failed first time33.220241127
Age 12 (rough estimate: 423 tests, 95% interval 12.0–18.9%)15.1% failed first time35.72024423
Age 13 (rough estimate: 254 tests, 95% interval 10.4–19.0%)14.2% failed first time38.22024254
Age 14 (rough estimate: 349 tests, 95% interval 14.4–22.4%)18.1% failed first time40.42024349
Age 15 (rough estimate: 465 tests, 95% interval 15.0–22.1%)18.3% failed first time41.62024465
Age 1618.0% failed first time43.12024783
Age 1719.5% failed first time43.12024776
Age 1819.7% failed first time43.92024794
Age 1918.5% failed first time43.520241112

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How does the Mercedes-Benz SL compare with cars of its own age and size?

At every age shown, Mercedes-Benz SLs fail first time no more often than comparable models of the same size class; the biggest difference is at age 18, where they fail less often: 19.3% against 38.1% (2024, n = 7,128).

line · Mercedes-Benz SL · Age 3 · 8 vs 10.8 · 2024
Age 3: 8. Age 20: 18.6. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 38% fail10.820242711
Age 47.5% fail12.420243322
Age 59.7% fail14.220244202
Age 611.7% fail16.120244860
Age 711.7% fail18.320244771
Age 811.9% fail20.620244298
Age 914.7% fail23.120243855
Age 1015.0% fail25.620243477
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1117.9% fail28.320242900
Age 1217.1% fail30.620241993
Age 1318.6% fail32.720242343
Age 1419.1% fail34.620243535
Age 1518.4% fail36.120244826
Age 1618.5% fail37.220246047
Age 1719.8% fail37.620246389
Age 1819.3% fail38.120247128
Age 1919.3% fail37.720246951
Age 2018.6% fail37.320245857

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz SL years should I avoid?

The Mercedes-Benz SL build year that fails most for its age is 2013: index 109.1 (95% CI 102.4–115.8) against the model's own age norm of 100 (2019–2024, n = 6,789).

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Build year 1998 (rough estimate: 502 tests, 95% interval 89.8–130.4) · 110.1 vs 100 = normal · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Build year 1998 (rough estimate: 502 tests, 95% interval 89.8–130.4)110.1index vs own age100 = normal2019–2024502
Build year 1999 (rough estimate: 794 tests, 95% interval 80.1–111.5)95.8index vs own age100 = normal2019–2024794
Build year 2000 (rough estimate: 1,071 tests, 95% interval 93.3–121.8)107.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–20241071
Build year 2001 (rough estimate: 894 tests, 95% interval 79.3–108.8)94index vs own age100 = normal2019–2024894
Build year 2002106.2index vs own age100 = normal2019–20244277
Build year 2003 (worse for its age)104.7index vs own age100 = normal2019–202412529
Build year 2004100.3index vs own age100 = normal2019–202410173
Build year 200596.2index vs own age100 = normal2019–20246298
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Build year 2006 (rough estimate: 3,977 tests, 95% interval 93.1–107.5)100.3index vs own age100 = normal2019–20243977
Build year 2007 (rough estimate: 3,454 tests, 95% interval 90.9–106.3)98.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–20243454
Build year 2008 (rough estimate: 3,912 tests, 95% interval 88.7–103.0)95.9index vs own age100 = normal2019–20243912
Build year 2009 (rough estimate: 2,661 tests, 95% interval 93.9–112.2)103index vs own age100 = normal2019–20242661
Build year 2010 (rough estimate: 1,937 tests, 95% interval 95.5–117.6)106.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–20241937
Build year 2011 (rough estimate: 1,415 tests, 95% interval 78.2–103.0)90.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–20241415
Build year 2012 (rough estimate: 2,337 tests, 95% interval 99.3–121.4)110.4index vs own age100 = normal2019–20242337
Build year 2013 (worse for its age)109.1index vs own age100 = normal2019–20246789
Build year 2014100.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–20246428
Build year 201592.3index vs own age100 = normal2019–20244934
Build year 2016105.1index vs own age100 = normal2019–20244690
Build year 2017 (better for its age) (rough estimate: 3,452 tests, 95% interval 77.4–97.8)87.6index vs own age100 = normal2019–20243452
Build year 2018 (rough estimate: 1,698 tests, 95% interval 75.5–105.8)90.7index vs own age100 = normal2019–20241698
Build year 2019 (rough estimate: 1,252 tests, 95% interval 70.9–107.6)89.2index vs own age100 = normal2019–20241252
Build year 2020 (rough estimate: 425 tests, 95% interval 60.0–126.8)93.4index vs own age100 = normal2019–2024425

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How much does it cost to fix a Mercedes-Benz SL MOT fail?

Expected repair cost per Mercedes-Benz SL MOT: about £45 (up to about £85 if more expensive parts are needed), from the chance of failing each item and its most common UK repair price (catalogue estimate, n = 21,309).

Computed, not measured.

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Expected repair bill · 44.6 vs modal price catalogue · price catalogue
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (price catalogue)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Expected repair bill44.6GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue21309
Estimated range lower44.6GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue21309
Estimated range upper84.7GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue21309
Suspension: Suspension coil spring (single corner)16.0GBP expected contribution180price catalogue21309
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: Battery replacement (standard 12V lead-acid)10.4GBP expected contribution140price catalogue21309
Brakes: Front brake pads (parts + labour, typical hatchback)8.4GBP expected contribution150price catalogue21309
Tyres: Tyre (single mid-range 16" fitted)5.6GBP expected contribution90price catalogue21309
Noise, emissions and leaks: Exhaust rear silencer4.2GBP expected contribution200price catalogue21309

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: price catalogue · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Mercedes-Benz SL more reliable than similar cars?

Of 8 similar models, 2 fail less often for their age than the Mercedes-Benz SL and 6 as often or more. The Mercedes-Benz SL has an MOT Risk Index of 47.6, where 100 = normal for its age (2024, n = 21,309).

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Mercedes-Benz SL (this model) · 47.6 vs 100 = normal · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Mercedes-Benz SL (this model)47.6index100 = normal202421309
Mercedes-Benz S-Class59.4index47.6202425541
Porsche Macan48.5index47.6202430095
Porsche Boxster48.5index47.6202432363
Jaguar F-Type43index47.6202414816
BMW M339.8index47.6202415820
Lexus NX55.8index47.6202428899
Jaguar XK59.1index47.6202423270
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Porsche Cayenne57.3index47.6202430161

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many miles does a Mercedes-Benz SL normally do?

At age 8, the median Mercedes-Benz SL had covered 32,665 miles by its MOT; the middle half ranged from 23,375 to 43,573 miles (2024, n = 776).

line · Mercedes-Benz SL · Age 4 median (rough estimate) · 15339 vs baseline · 2024
Age 4 median (roug: 15339. Age 19 P75: 93652. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 4 median (rough estimate)15339miles2024212
Age 4 P25 (rough estimate)10088miles2024212
Age 4 P75 (rough estimate)20936miles2024212
Age 5 median (rough estimate)17550miles2024414
Age 5 P25 (rough estimate)12072miles2024414
Age 5 P75 (rough estimate)25316miles2024414
Age 6 median (rough estimate)22575miles2024408
Age 6 P25 (rough estimate)14201miles2024408
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 6 P75 (rough estimate)31708miles2024408
Age 7 median27449miles2024647
Age 7 P2518902miles2024647
Age 7 P7536781miles2024647
Age 8 median32665miles2024776
Age 8 P2523375miles2024776
Age 8 P7543573miles2024776
Age 9 median37807miles2024820
Age 9 P2525246miles2024820
Age 9 P7550772miles2024820
Age 10 median43640miles20241064
Age 10 P2531294miles20241064
Age 10 P7559907miles20241064
Age 11 median45920miles20241127
Age 11 P2532093miles20241127
Age 11 P7561023miles20241127
Age 12 median (rough estimate)47162miles2024423
Age 12 P25 (rough estimate)31206miles2024423
Age 12 P75 (rough estimate)62131miles2024423
Age 13 median (rough estimate)47525miles2024254
Age 13 P25 (rough estimate)33841miles2024254
Age 13 P75 (rough estimate)62753miles2024254
Age 14 median (rough estimate)56555miles2024349
Age 14 P25 (rough estimate)39179miles2024349
Age 14 P75 (rough estimate)73336miles2024349
Age 15 median (rough estimate)59755miles2024465
Age 15 P25 (rough estimate)40998miles2024465
Age 15 P75 (rough estimate)81249miles2024465
Age 16 median61628miles2024783
Age 16 P2543090miles2024783
Age 16 P7582265miles2024783
Age 17 median67874miles2024776
Age 17 P2547167miles2024776
Age 17 P7587536miles2024776
Age 18 median71989miles2024794
Age 18 P2552472miles2024794
Age 18 P7592749miles2024794
Age 19 median72293miles20241112
Age 19 P2552696miles20241112
Age 19 P7593652miles20241112

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does high mileage mean more Mercedes-Benz SL MOT failures at the same age?

At ages 15+, 12.2% of Mercedes-Benz SLs with under 40,000 miles failed first time, against 28.6% of those with over 140,000 miles (2024, n = 1,892). Inside this age group, higher mileage goes with more failures.

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Age 6–9, <40k miles · 9 vs baseline · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 6–9, <40k miles9% failed first time20241860
Age 6–9, 40-70k miles15.6% failed first time2024674
Age 6–9, 70-100k miles (rough estimate: 103 tests, 95% interval 15.4–31.3%)22.3% failed first time2024103
Age 10–14, <40k miles10.5% failed first time20241230
Age 10–14, 40-70k miles17.1% failed first time20241450
Age 10–14, 70-100k miles (rough estimate: 426 tests, 95% interval 20.6–28.7%)24.4% failed first time2024426
Age 10–14, 100-140k miles (rough estimate: 99 tests, 95% interval 18.6–35.7%)26.3% failed first time202499
Age 15+, <40k miles12.2% failed first time20241515
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 15+, 40-70k miles15.5% failed first time20243574
Age 15+, 70-100k miles21% failed first time20243526
Age 15+, 100-140k miles23.8% failed first time20241830
Age 15+, 140k+ miles (rough estimate: 377 tests, 95% interval 24.3–33.4%)28.6% failed first time2024377

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many miles does a Mercedes-Benz SL last?

16.4% of Mercedes-Benz SLs tested had reached 100,000 miles, and 2.2% had reached 150,000 (2024, n = 18,097).

line · Mercedes-Benz SL · 100,000 miles · 16.4 vs baseline · 2024
100,000 miles: 16.4. 200,000 miles (rou: 0.3. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
100,000 miles16.4% of tested cars202418097
150,000 miles2.2% of tested cars20242398
200,000 miles (rough estimate: 284 tests, 95% interval 0.2–0.3%)0.3% of tested cars2024284

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Mercedes-Benz SL driven more or less than average, and does that change the picture?

Matched on annual mileage as well as age, the Mercedes-Benz SL index is 53.3, against 47.7 on age alone (2019–2024, n = 21,309).

slope · Mercedes-Benz SL · Age and mileage adjusted index · 53.3 vs 47.7 · 2019–2024
Age and mileage adjusted index: 47.7 vs 53.3. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age and mileage adjusted index53.3index47.72019–202421309

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz SL fuel fails its MOT less?

All Mercedes-Benz SLs tested were petrol: 17.1% failed first time (2024, n = 21,277).

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Petrol · 17.1 vs other fuels · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Petrol17.1% fail first timeother fuels202421277

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz SL engine is best?

For its age, the best Mercedes-Benz SL engine is the petrol over 2.0 litre at index 99.9, and the worst the diesel over 2.0 litre at 147.7, where 100 = the model's own average (2024, n = 21,309).

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Petrol over 2.0 litre · 99.9 vs 100 = model average · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Petrol over 2.0 litre99.9index vs model norm100 = model average2024105315
Diesel over 2.0 litre (rough estimate: 111 tests, 95% interval 108.0–195.2)147.7index vs model norm100 = model average2024111

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Where in Britain does the Mercedes-Benz SL fail its MOT most?

Mercedes-Benz SL fails first-time MOTs most in Hereford (HR): 24.6% against 17.1% across Britain for this model, both 2019–2024 (2024, n = 301).

First-time failure rates for the Mercedes-Benz SL range from 11.7% to 23.7% by area, before allowing for age: a narrower spread than for the typical model.

map · Mercedes-Benz SL · Hereford (HR) (rough estimate: 301 tests, 95% interval 20.1–29.7%) · 24.6 vs 17.1 · 2024
Scotland. N. England. Wales. London. S. West. % failing. 13%. 22%. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Hereford (HR) (rough estimate: 301 tests, 95% interval 20.1–29.7%)24.6% fail first time17.12024301
Exeter (EX)23.7% fail first time17.120241049
Dundee (DD) (rough estimate: 251 tests, 95% interval 18.7–29.1%)23.5% fail first time17.12024251
Oldham (OL) (rough estimate: 394 tests, 95% interval 8.4–14.7%)11.2% fail first time17.12024394
Blackburn (BB)11.7% fail first time17.12024641
Birmingham (B)12.0% fail first time17.120242626
Falkirk (FK) (rough estimate: 305 tests, 95% interval 18.0–27.3%)22.3% fail first time17.12024305
Leeds (LS)22.2% fail first time17.12024806
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Truro (TR)22.1% fail first time17.12024612
Kirkcaldy (KY) (rough estimate: 322 tests, 95% interval 17.9–26.9%)22.1% fail first time17.12024322
Liverpool (L)21.8% fail first time17.12024812
Cardiff (CF)21.8% fail first time17.120241120
London SW (SW)21.7% fail first time17.120241131
Perth (PH) (rough estimate: 197 tests, 95% interval 16.2–27.6%)21.3% fail first time17.12024197
Brighton (BN)21.2% fail first time17.120241852
Portsmouth (PO)21.2% fail first time17.120241715
York (YO)21.1% fail first time17.120241185
Bristol (BS)21.0% fail first time17.120241644
Aberdeen (AB)20.6% fail first time17.12024678
Guildford (GU)20.4% fail first time17.120242990
Hull (HU) (rough estimate: 497 tests, 95% interval 17.0–24.1%)20.3% fail first time17.12024497
Torquay (TQ)20.3% fail first time17.12024518
Bournemouth (BH)20.2% fail first time17.120241637
Canterbury (CT)20.0% fail first time17.12024986
Northampton (NN)19.7% fail first time17.120241368
Crewe (CW)19.7% fail first time17.12024559
Telford (TF) (rough estimate: 275 tests, 95% interval 15.4–24.7%)19.6% fail first time17.12024275
Salisbury (SP)19.6% fail first time17.12024680
Watford (WD)19.4% fail first time17.12024674
Carlisle (CA) (rough estimate: 351 tests, 95% interval 15.6–23.8%)19.4% fail first time17.12024351
Gloucester (GL)19.3% fail first time17.120241420
Bath (BA)19.2% fail first time17.12024733
Ipswich (IP)19.2% fail first time17.120241348
Chester (CH)19.2% fail first time17.120241153
Lincoln (LN)19.2% fail first time17.12024595
Edinburgh (EH)19.1% fail first time17.120241107
Glasgow (G)19.1% fail first time17.120241239
Newport (NP) (rough estimate: 492 tests, 95% interval 15.3–22.2%)18.5% fail first time17.12024492
Swansea (SA)18.4% fail first time17.12024786
Plymouth (PL)18.4% fail first time17.12024781
Reading (RG)18.4% fail first time17.120243279
Harrogate (HG)18.3% fail first time17.12024640
Norwich (NR)18.3% fail first time17.120241221
Taunton (TA)18.0% fail first time17.12024594
Stoke-on-Trent (ST)18.0% fail first time17.12024852
Dorchester (DT) (rough estimate: 477 tests, 95% interval 14.6–21.5%)17.8% fail first time17.12024477
Southampton (SO)17.7% fail first time17.120241731
Hemel Hempstead (HP)17.6% fail first time17.120242147
Lancaster (LA) (rough estimate: 386 tests, 95% interval 14.1–21.7%)17.6% fail first time17.12024386
Doncaster (DN)17.6% fail first time17.120241052
Llandudno (LL)17.6% fail first time17.12024665
London W (W)17.4% fail first time17.12024659
Colchester (CO)17.4% fail first time17.12024947
Paisley (PA) (rough estimate: 282 tests, 95% interval 13.4–22.2%)17.4% fail first time17.12024282
Swindon (SN)17.1% fail first time17.12024872
Huddersfield (HD) (rough estimate: 393 tests, 95% interval 13.7–21.1%)17.1% fail first time17.12024393
Cambridge (CB)17.0% fail first time17.12024793
Stockport (SK)17.0% fail first time17.120241372
Worcester (WR)17.0% fail first time17.12024790
Durham (DH) (rough estimate: 210 tests, 95% interval 12.2–22.3%)16.7% fail first time17.12024210
Oxford (OX)16.6% fail first time17.120241303
Redhill (RH)16.6% fail first time17.120241689
Leicester (LE)16.6% fail first time17.120241697
St Albans (AL)16.5% fail first time17.12024655
Milton Keynes (MK)16.4% fail first time17.120241284
Shrewsbury (SY)16.4% fail first time17.12024615
London NW (NW)16.4% fail first time17.120241444
London E (E)16.4% fail first time17.12024844
Tonbridge (TN)16.3% fail first time17.120242484
Sunderland (SR) (rough estimate: 258 tests, 95% interval 12.3–21.3%)16.3% fail first time17.12024258
Halifax (HX) (rough estimate: 197 tests, 95% interval 11.7–22.0%)16.2% fail first time17.12024197
Cleveland (TS)16.2% fail first time17.12024678
London SE (SE)16.2% fail first time17.120241135
Croydon (CR)16.2% fail first time17.120241074
Bolton (BL) (rough estimate: 395 tests, 95% interval 12.9–20.2%)16.2% fail first time17.12024395
Preston (PR)16.0% fail first time17.12024868
Dartford (DA)15.9% fail first time17.120241011
Inverness (IV) (rough estimate: 176 tests, 95% interval 11.2–22.0%)15.9% fail first time17.12024176
Nottingham (NG)15.9% fail first time17.120241887
Derby (DE)15.9% fail first time17.120241271
Wigan (WN) (rough estimate: 259 tests, 95% interval 11.9–20.8%)15.8% fail first time17.12024259
Peterborough (PE)15.6% fail first time17.120241778
Darlington (DL)15.5% fail first time17.12024569
Kingston upon Thames (KT)15.3% fail first time17.120242568
Chelmsford (CM)15.3% fail first time17.120242358
Newcastle (NE)15.2% fail first time17.120241189
Luton (LU)15.2% fail first time17.12024506
Slough (SL)14.8% fail first time17.120241636
Galashiels (TD) (rough estimate: 162 tests, 95% interval 10.2–21.1%)14.8% fail first time17.12024162
Bradford (BD)14.5% fail first time17.12024766
Wolverhampton (WV)14.5% fail first time17.12024588
Motherwell (ML) (rough estimate: 327 tests, 95% interval 11.0–18.6%)14.4% fail first time17.12024327
Warrington (WA)14.2% fail first time17.120241032
London N (N)14.2% fail first time17.120241195
Stevenage (SG)14.1% fail first time17.120241351
Coventry (CV)14.1% fail first time17.120241724
Ilford (IG)14.1% fail first time17.12024773
Enfield (EN)14.1% fail first time17.120241109
Harrow (HA)14.1% fail first time17.12024775
Wakefield (WF)13.9% fail first time17.12024588
Sheffield (S)13.8% fail first time17.120241628
Kilmarnock (KA) (rough estimate: 429 tests, 95% interval 10.8–17.3%)13.8% fail first time17.12024429
Bromley (BR)13.6% fail first time17.12024544
Medway (ME)13.6% fail first time17.120241165
Dudley (DY)13.4% fail first time17.12024611
Twickenham (TW)13.4% fail first time17.120241317
Romford (RM)13.2% fail first time17.120241089
Blackpool (FY)13.0% fail first time17.12024539
Sutton (SM) (rough estimate: 385 tests, 95% interval 10.0–16.7%)13.0% fail first time17.12024385
Manchester (M)12.9% fail first time17.12024806
Uxbridge (UB)12.6% fail first time17.12024701
Walsall (WS)12.3% fail first time17.12024618
Southend-on-Sea (SS)12.1% fail first time17.120241382

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does a Mercedes-Benz SL rust more than average?

Allowing for age, Mercedes-Benz SL MOTs record corrosion failures at 1.1 times the national rate: 0.82% of tests against 0.77% (2024 + geographic layers, n = 17,386).

Computed, not measured.

slope · Mercedes-Benz SL · Salt belt susceptibility · 1.1 vs 1 · 2024 + geographic layers
Salt belt susceptibility: 1 vs 1.1. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024 + geographic layers)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Salt belt susceptibility1.1ratio estimate12024 + geographic layers17386

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 + geographic layers · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is a Mercedes-Benz SL ULEZ compliant?

An estimated 53.7% of Mercedes-Benz SLs tested are likely ULEZ-compliant, judged from fuel type and first-use date; check a specific car with TfL's vehicle checker (2024).

Computed, not measured.

stacked · Mercedes-Benz SL · Likely compliant · 53.7 vs baseline · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Likely compliant53.7% estimate202421309

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What do six years of MOTs show about owning a Mercedes-Benz SL?

Of failed Mercedes-Benz SL MOTs, 24.1% were retested the same day and a further 69.0% within 10 days; the median failed car passed its retest after 2 days (2019–2024, n = 12,994).

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Same-day retest · 24.1 vs failed initial tests · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Same-day retest24.1%failed initial tests2019–202412994
Retest within 10 days69.0%failed initial tests2019–202412994
Clean MOT streak49.8%observed chains2019–202422273
Repeat advisory18.9%observed chains2019–202422273
Decreasing odometer1.4% mileage anomalyobserved chains2019–202424720

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is low mileage better for a Mercedes-Benz SL?

Mercedes-Benz SLs aged 5 to 14 doing under 5,000 miles a year failed first time in 10.5% of tests, against 21.4% for those doing 8,000 to 12,000 miles (2019–2024, n = 22,201).

bullet · Mercedes-Benz SL · Low-use first-time failure · 10.5 vs 21.4 · 2019–2024
Low-use first-time failure: 10.5 vs 21.4. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Low-use first-time failure10.5%21.42019–202422201
Low-use gap-10.9percentage points8–12k miles2019–202422201

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many years is a Mercedes-Benz SL likely to last?

Mercedes-Benz SLs tend to last: at ten years old the typical one has about 9.5 more years of MOTs ahead, more than the median model. This is a forecast from the survival curve and may not come true.

Computed, not measured.

Forecast, not a prediction for a particular car.

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Age 5 (at least; observed only until age 19) · 12.9 vs baseline · survival forecast
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (survival forecast)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 5 (at least; observed only until age 19)12.9years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 8 (at least; observed only until age 19)9.9years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 10 (at least; observed only until age 19)9.5years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 12 (at least; observed only until age 19)13.8years forecastsurvival forecast0
Age 15 (at least; observed only until age 19)4.5years forecastsurvival forecast0

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: survival forecast · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz SLs are still on the road?

In 2024, at least as many Mercedes-Benz SLs were tested at age 19 as at ages 4 to 6 (2024, n = 6,951).

line · Mercedes-Benz SL · Age 3 · 65.7 vs baseline · 2024
Age 3: 65.7. Age 19 (at least a: 100. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 365.7% of age 4–6 baseline20242711
Age 480.5% of age 4–6 baseline20243322
Age 5 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20244202
Age 6 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20244860
Age 7 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20244771
Age 8 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20244298
Age 993.4% of age 4–6 baseline20243855
Age 1084.2% of age 4–6 baseline20243477
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 1170.3% of age 4–6 baseline20242900
Age 1248.3% of age 4–6 baseline20241993
Age 1356.8% of age 4–6 baseline20242343
Age 1485.6% of age 4–6 baseline20243535
Age 15 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20244826
Age 16 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20246047
Age 17 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20246389
Age 18 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20247128
Age 19 (at least as many as at ages 4–6)100% of age 4–6 baseline20246951

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

If a Mercedes-Benz SL fails, does it fail again?

20.1% of Mercedes-Benz SLs that failed an MOT failed the next one too, against 14.5% after a pass (2019–2024, n = 4,407). The failure most likely to come back is road wheels: 24.7% of those fails recurred at the next MOT.

bullet · Mercedes-Benz SL · Repeat after fail · 20.1 vs 14.5 · 2019–2024
Repeat after fail: 20.1 vs 14.5. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Repeat after fail20.1%14.52019–20244407

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Mercedes-Benz SL faults come together?

On Mercedes-Benz SLs, ‘body, chassis, structure’ and ‘noise, emissions and leaks’ failures turn up together 11.1 times as often as chance would predict (2024, n = 181).

Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Body, chassis, structure + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 181 tests, 95% interval 9.5–12.8)11.1liftexpected joint rate2024181
Body, chassis, structure + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 54 tests, 95% interval 6.1–10.6)8.1liftexpected joint rate202454
Body, chassis, structure + Steering (rough estimate: 97 tests, 95% interval 6.3–9.4)7.7liftexpected joint rate202497
Identification of the vehicle + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 26 tests, 95% interval 4.8–10.9)7.4liftexpected joint rate202426
Brakes + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 472 tests, 95% interval 6.7–8.1)7.4liftexpected joint rate2024472
Body, chassis, structure + Brakes (rough estimate: 252 tests, 95% interval 6.5–8.3)7.3liftexpected joint rate2024252
Body, chassis, structure + Identification of the vehicle (rough estimate: 32 tests, 95% interval 4.7–9.8)6.9liftexpected joint rate202432
Brakes + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 175 tests, 95% interval 5.8–7.8)6.7liftexpected joint rate2024175
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Body, chassis, structure + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 327 tests, 95% interval 5.9–7.3)6.6liftexpected joint rate2024327
Body, chassis, structure + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 24 tests, 95% interval 3.9–9.0)6.0liftexpected joint rate202424
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 217 tests, 95% interval 5.0–6.6)5.8liftexpected joint rate2024217
Road Wheels + Tyres (rough estimate: 112 tests, 95% interval 4.7–6.9)5.7liftexpected joint rate2024112
Identification of the vehicle + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 47 tests, 95% interval 4.0–7.3)5.5liftexpected joint rate202447
Noise, emissions and leaks + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 65 tests, 95% interval 4.1–6.7)5.3liftexpected joint rate202465
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 475 tests, 95% interval 4.7–5.6)5.1liftexpected joint rate2024475
Identification of the vehicle + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 135 tests, 95% interval 4.3–6.1)5.1liftexpected joint rate2024135
Brakes + Steering (rough estimate: 248 tests, 95% interval 4.4–5.7)5.0liftexpected joint rate2024248
Brakes + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment5.0liftexpected joint rate2024969
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Steering (rough estimate: 353 tests, 95% interval 4.5–5.5)5.0liftexpected joint rate2024353
Steering + Suspension (rough estimate: 427 tests, 95% interval 4.4–5.3)4.8liftexpected joint rate2024427
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Steering (rough estimate: 46 tests, 95% interval 3.5–6.5)4.8liftexpected joint rate202446
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Visibility (rough estimate: 153 tests, 95% interval 4.0–5.5)4.7liftexpected joint rate2024153
Brakes + Identification of the vehicle (rough estimate: 85 tests, 95% interval 3.8–5.8)4.7liftexpected joint rate202485
Identification of the vehicle + Steering (rough estimate: 31 tests, 95% interval 3.2–6.6)4.7liftexpected joint rate202431
Noise, emissions and leaks + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 34 tests, 95% interval 3.2–6.4)4.6liftexpected joint rate202434
Road Wheels + Steering (rough estimate: 26 tests, 95% interval 3.0–6.7)4.6liftexpected joint rate202426
Body, chassis, structure + Visibility (rough estimate: 194 tests, 95% interval 3.9–5.2)4.5liftexpected joint rate2024194
Brakes + Suspension4.4liftexpected joint rate20241061
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 98 tests, 95% interval 3.5–5.3)4.3liftexpected joint rate202498
Identification of the vehicle + Tyres (rough estimate: 97 tests, 95% interval 3.5–5.2)4.3liftexpected joint rate202497
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Suspension (rough estimate: 198 tests, 95% interval 3.7–4.9)4.3liftexpected joint rate2024198
Body, chassis, structure + Suspension (rough estimate: 260 tests, 95% interval 3.7–4.8)4.2liftexpected joint rate2024260
Road Wheels + Visibility (rough estimate: 81 tests, 95% interval 3.3–5.2)4.2liftexpected joint rate202481
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Visibility4.0liftexpected joint rate2024982
Noise, emissions and leaks + Steering (rough estimate: 93 tests, 95% interval 3.2–4.9)4.0liftexpected joint rate202493
Brakes + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 62 tests, 95% interval 3.0–5.1)4.0liftexpected joint rate202462
Identification of the vehicle + Visibility (rough estimate: 88 tests, 95% interval 3.1–4.8)3.9liftexpected joint rate202488
Road Wheels + Suspension (rough estimate: 106 tests, 95% interval 3.1–4.6)3.8liftexpected joint rate2024106
Brakes + Visibility3.7liftexpected joint rate2024615
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Suspension3.7liftexpected joint rate20241281
Noise, emissions and leaks + Visibility (rough estimate: 287 tests, 95% interval 3.2–4.1)3.6liftexpected joint rate2024287
Noise, emissions and leaks + Suspension (rough estimate: 403 tests, 95% interval 3.2–3.9)3.5liftexpected joint rate2024403
Steering + Visibility (rough estimate: 214 tests, 95% interval 3.1–4.0)3.5liftexpected joint rate2024214
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Tyres (rough estimate: 110 tests, 95% interval 2.8–4.1)3.4liftexpected joint rate2024110
Brakes + Tyres3.3liftexpected joint rate2024548
Identification of the vehicle + Suspension (rough estimate: 102 tests, 95% interval 2.6–3.8)3.1liftexpected joint rate2024102
Body, chassis, structure + Tyres (rough estimate: 128 tests, 95% interval 2.5–3.5)3.0liftexpected joint rate2024128
Noise, emissions and leaks + Tyres (rough estimate: 226 tests, 95% interval 2.5–3.2)2.8liftexpected joint rate2024226
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Tyres2.8liftexpected joint rate2024681
Suspension + Visibility2.7liftexpected joint rate2024812
Suspension + Tyres2.4liftexpected joint rate2024735
Tyres + Visibility2.4liftexpected joint rate2024507
Steering + Tyres (rough estimate: 135 tests, 95% interval 1.8–2.6)2.2liftexpected joint rate2024135
Road Wheels + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (seen together; too few for a multiplier)17tests with both202417
Identification of the vehicle + Road Wheels (seen together; too few for a multiplier)16tests with both202416
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Speedometer and speed limiter (seen together; too few for a multiplier)10tests with both202410
Brakes + Speedometer and speed limiter (seen together; too few for a multiplier)6tests with both20246
Speedometer and speed limiter + Visibility (seen together; too few for a multiplier)5tests with both20245
Speedometer and speed limiter + Suspension (seen together; too few for a multiplier)5tests with both20245

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Has the Mercedes-Benz SL had safety recalls?

DVSA lists 32 safety recall campaigns matched to the Mercedes-Benz SL; check whether yours has been fixed, using its registration number.

Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (DVSA register)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
DVSA recall campaigns matched32campaignsDVSA registerDVSA register21309

Source: DVSA register; recall effect covers 11 of 761 models · Window: DVSA register · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What does a Mercedes-Benz SL cost to run in a fleet?

Of every 100 Mercedes-Benz SLs tested at age 5, about 7 failed the MOT first time (rough estimate); at age 10, about 14 (rough estimate). These are one-year rates for different cars tested in the same year, not a fleet followed over time (2024).

Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 4 (rough estimate: 212 tests, 95% interval 4.3–11.3%)7.1% fail first time2024212
Age 5 (rough estimate: 414 tests, 95% interval 5.1–10.2%)7.3% fail first time2024414
Age 6 (rough estimate: 408 tests, 95% interval 7.5–13.3%)10.1% fail first time2024408
Age 7 (rough estimate: 647 tests, 95% interval 7.4–11.9%)9.4% fail first time2024647
Age 8 (rough estimate: 776 tests, 95% interval 8.4–12.7%)10.3% fail first time2024776
Age 9 (rough estimate: 820 tests, 95% interval 11.9–16.7%)14.2% fail first time2024820
Age 10 (rough estimate: 1,064 tests, 95% interval 11.6–15.7%)13.5% fail first time20241064
Age 11 (rough estimate: 1,127 tests, 95% interval 15.9–20.4%)18.0% fail first time20241127
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age 12 (rough estimate: 423 tests, 95% interval 12.0–18.9%)15.1% fail first time2024423
Age 13 (rough estimate: 254 tests, 95% interval 10.4–19.0%)14.2% fail first time2024254
Age 14 (rough estimate: 349 tests, 95% interval 14.4–22.4%)18.1% fail first time2024349
Age 15 (rough estimate: 465 tests, 95% interval 15.0–22.1%)18.3% fail first time2024465
Age 16 (rough estimate: 783 tests, 95% interval 15.5–20.9%)18.0% fail first time2024783
Age 17 (rough estimate: 776 tests, 95% interval 16.8–22.4%)19.5% fail first time2024776
Age 18 (rough estimate: 794 tests, 95% interval 17.0–22.6%)19.6% fail first time2024794
Age 19 (rough estimate: 1,112 tests, 95% interval 16.4–20.9%)18.5% fail first time20241112

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What have dealers been told about the Mercedes-Benz SL? (US market)

NHTSA lists 335 US technical service bulletins for the Mercedes-Benz SL (US market, Mercedes-Benz SL-CLASS, model years 2015–2022 only); a count, not a UK failure rate.

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · US service bulletins · 335 vs NHTSA · NHTSA
NHTSA, US market, Mercedes-Benz SL-CLASS, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (NHTSA)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
US service bulletins335bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 201310bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 201416bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 20157bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 20164bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 201712bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 20181bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 20195bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Full table
Further values · NHTSA
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Year 202015bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 20216bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 202215bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 202341bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 202461bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 202563bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309
Year 202679bulletinsNHTSANHTSA21309

Source: NHTSA, US market, Mercedes-Benz SL-CLASS, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models · Window: NHTSA · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What do owners complain about? (US market)

The most common US owner complaint about the Mercedes-Benz SL to NHTSA concerns engine (not MOT-tested): 7 complaints (US market, Mercedes-Benz SL-CLASS, model years 2015–2022 only).

bar · Mercedes-Benz SL · Engine (not MOT-tested) · 7 vs baseline · NHTSA + 2024
NHTSA, US market, Mercedes-Benz SL-CLASS, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (NHTSA + 2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Engine (not MOT-tested)7complaintsNHTSA + 20247
Lamps & electrical6complaintsNHTSA + 20246
Transmission (not MOT-tested)4complaintsNHTSA + 20244
Tyres3complaintsNHTSA + 20243
Brakes1complaintsNHTSA + 20241
Steering1complaintsNHTSA + 20241

Source: NHTSA, US market, Mercedes-Benz SL-CLASS, model years 2015–2022 only; covers 211 of 761 models · Window: NHTSA + 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does the Mercedes-Benz SL fail inspections in other countries too?

In the Netherlands, 41.9% of Mercedes-Benz SLs failed their periodic roadworthiness inspection, against 50.8% for all cars there (2024 by country, n = 1,946 inspections).

Inspections abroad point the same way: in the Netherlands the Mercedes-Benz SL also fails less often than the national average.

bullet · Mercedes-Benz SL · Netherlands · 41.9 vs 50.8 · 2024 by country
Netherlands: 41.9 vs 50.8. Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024 by country)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Netherlands41.9% failed50.82024 by country1946

Source: Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models · Window: 2024 by country · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV · licences and full notice

Does the month of a Mercedes-Benz SL MOT matter?

Mercedes-Benz SLs fail first time most in February (17.7%, against 30.0% for all cars that month) and least in December (16.2%) (2024, n = 21,309).

The month of the MOT makes little difference for the Mercedes-Benz SL.

line · Mercedes-Benz SL · January · 17.3 vs 31.1 · 2024
January: 17.3. December: 16.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Mercedes-Benz SL: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
January17.3% fail first time31.120247272
February17.7% fail first time30.020247630
March16.8% fail first time28.3202410980
April17.4% fail first time29.820249390
May17.0% fail first time28.8202410444
June17.3% fail first time28.1202411149
July17.0% fail first time29.3202410580
August16.8% fail first time29.2202410150
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
September16.5% fail first time28.2202410020
October17.1% fail first time30.320249507
November17.6% fail first time30.620248081
December16.2% fail first time29.320245647

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Not enough tests for… (and why)

Real-world MPG against the official figure (manufacturer level)

layer not yet computed for this model (covers 19 of 761 models). 21,309 initial Mercedes-Benz SL tests are in the published model cohort.

Source: European Commission OBFCM; covers 19 of 761 models · Window: 2021+ cohorts · n = 21,309 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

See the Mercedes-Benz GLC, a car of the same inspection class with 3.7× the tests · Check your car by registration

How to cite this page

MOT Risk Index (2026). Mercedes-Benz SL MOT statistics 2024 (data release dvsa-2024-v2; full dataset motriskindex-families-2024-v5, DOI 10.5281/zenodo.22975051), updated 24 September 2026. motriskindex.co.uk/cars/mercedes-sl/

How the MOT Risk Index and every figure on this page are calculated: methodology.

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Mercedes-Benz SL MOT: quick answers

What is the Mercedes-Benz SL first-time MOT pass rate?

82.9% of first attempts passed in 2024 (21,309 tests). Retests after repair are excluded; cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) are shown separately.

Why does this number differ from other sites?

Other sites may count retests or all attempts. This page uses 21,309 primary tests: 17.09% failed first time and 85.5% passed when cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) count as passes. The age-adjusted MOT Risk Index 47.6 is shown separately.