MERCEDES SLS (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 119 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
97%
Total Tests (2024)
119
Avg Mileage
15,337 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,097
Is the 2012 MERCEDES SLS reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 15 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 12 years old, 97% of MERCEDES SLSs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 119 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 15,337 miles.
How does the 2012 MERCEDES SLS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 MERCEDES SLS has 15,337 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES SLS?
The most reliable year is the 2013 model with a 100% MOT pass rate, while the 2010 model has the lowest at 94%. The 2012 sits between the two at 97%.
How much does a 2012 MERCEDES SLS cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES SLS by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES SLS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 MERCEDES SLS
The 2012 MERCEDES SLS is a performance with a 6208cc petrol engine. 119 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 4% of all 2012 cars for reliability.
With an average of 15,337 miles at 12 years old, MERCEDES SLS owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2012 MERCEDES SLS Fuel Costs
The 6208cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 MERCEDES SLS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,097 (£175/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 97% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
MERCEDES SLS Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES SLSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 MERCEDES SLS
At 12 years old, the MERCEDES SLS is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2013 model has the highest pass rate at 100%.
Alternatives to the 2012 MERCEDES SLS
The MERCEDES SLS is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BENTLEY CONTINENTAL (2012) 95% pass rate (-2%) from 2,452 tests
- MERCEDES SL (2010) 88% pass rate (-9%) from 955 tests
- ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE (2014) 95% pass rate (-2%) from 885 tests
- ASTON MARTIN VANQUISH (2013) 97% pass rate (same) from 597 tests