Second Hand Mercedes-Benz SL Bulkhead

The SL has run through several well-established generations: the R107 (1971–1989), R129 (1989–2001), R230 (2001–2012), R231 (2012–2020), and R232 (2020–present). The bulkhead is a generation-specific structural pressing, so you must match your car's R-code platform to source the correct part. Giving the breaker your registration is the safest way to confirm exactly which generation you have.

A 2005 SL sits in the R230 generation (2001–2012), while a 2013 SL is an R231 (2012–2020), meaning these are entirely different platforms. The bulkhead is a fundamental structural component that is platform-specific, so R230 and R231 parts are not interchangeable. You'll need to source an R231 bulkhead for your 2013 car.

Both years fall within the R230 generation (2001–2012), so they share the same basic platform, which is a good starting point. However, Mercedes did carry out mid-generation changes during the R230's production run, and whether any pressing differences affect bulkhead compatibility is something you should confirm with the breaker against your specific registration rather than assume. Do not treat same-generation parts as a guaranteed fit without that check.

Trim and engine variants like the SL350, SL500, SL55 AMG, or SL63 AMG do not affect bulkhead fitment – the structural pressing is the same across engine lines within a given generation. You may find cosmetic or minor ancillary differences when stripping or refitting, but the core bulkhead panel itself is not engine-dependent. Matching the generation (R107, R129, R230, R231) is what matters here.

The Mercedes SL has been exclusively a two-door, two-seat roadster/convertible throughout its modern production history, so there are no saloon, estate, or hatch variants to cross-contaminate your search. This means body style is not a variable you need to worry about when sourcing a used SL bulkhead – simply matching the correct generation platform is the key fitment factor. Always quote your registration to the breaker to confirm the exact specification.

The R230 received a facelift in 2008, which brought visual and trim updates to the car. Whether the facelift involved any changes to the bulkhead pressing itself is not something that can be stated with certainty, so you should confirm this directly with the breaker using your registration number. Name the pre- or post-2008 status of your car when you contact them to help them identify the right part.