New to the board and just bought a 2003 SL500. These are great machines. I have started my list of mods and need some input. I would like to have a little more sound from the exhaust- what are my options and cost? Also, I knew the technology of the head unit was dated and i am looking to replace the entire stereo - anyone else done this?

Thanks-

 

Head Unit replacement will be tough; you'll lose considerable functionality like the aux displays on the dash. You can do amps/speakers for improved sound more easily, of course, while retaining the headunit. The #1 mod is probably the Smartop roof module. Greatly extends the functionality of the roof, allows one touch up down, the RF remote can be used to raise/lower, roof can be operated while moving (below a programmable speed) and it adds a few other goodies like audible horn beeps for lock/unlock. Well worth it.

Other options are adding bluetooth and sat radio (both factory and not cheap) and many options for interior mods.

A mod I'd like to do - retrofit paddle shifting - is apparently possible, though I'm still researching what it will entail.

 

I am confused - I was told that sat radio is not compatible until 2004. Also, in dash data is managed by a separate module. If I go with a new head unit, I will put Nav, Sat, Bluetooth, IPOD, etc. The sound quality is not the problem, it is the lack of inputs - sat and ipod integration. Have not seen anything on the smart roof - sounds interesting though.