I have a 1997 SL 320 with 50,000 original miles. We have had the car for years and plan to keep it. We have an oil leak we are told is coming from the rear of the head gasket. It appears to leak down to the exhaust pipe creating a strong oil smell after running. I am told that in 1997 Mercedes used the “old type” head gasket material. The estimated repair cost--$2,000. Does this sound reasonable? The vehicle is garaged for the winter so please do not hesitate to respond even if you think this Post is old. Thank you.

 

it cost me $1,275 and it turned out to be leaking at my camshaft sensor. wipe down the area in question and run for a day or two. use a mirror if needed to see into those hidden spots. check the valve cover back there.

 

I have a similar problem, my car quit, just quit after storing for the winter. Finally towed it to MB and they said the camshaft has leaked and wicked into the wiring harness. Its toast. They quoted $6000 to fix it and I did have the camshaft replaced with the recall but it leaked again. I really feel that they should have to fix it. They said well your car is too old. Its a 01! So they won't fix it. I'm tempted to get an attorney. I did find a post that Mark ? wrote on taking CRC and a q-tip and cleaning the wires and pins. I'm just not sure if I know where all the wiring harness's are. I do my own work on my car and I love my car. I was in tears when I had to tow it home from MB. I would be very very thankful if someone could help me with this.

 

the 230 had an issue with sensor leaking on a connector. I don't know about the sl320. I don't know where it could happen on my 300sl. I don't know why oil leaking on to a harness would ruin the entire harness. If it burned or got oil soaked, I would try to fix or wire around the damaged wiring or connector