2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R231) Door Sill Plate Guide
This guide clarifies common issues with the R231 SL-Class door sills, including physical damage and problems with the illuminated versions, and explains why this part is not shared with other Mercedes models.
- These door sill plates are ONLY for the 2013-2020 R231 SL-Class and do not fit any other Mercedes models.
- Failure of illuminated sills is often caused by a bad inverter or door latch switch, not the sill plate itself.
- Scratches on the stainless steel are very common and difficult to remove; replacement is often the best solution for a pristine look.
- When buying used, always verify the mounting clips are intact and, for illuminated versions, confirm they work before purchase.
A Note on Vehicle Fitment
Important Compatibility Warning: This guide and the associated part numbers are specific to the 2013-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R231 chassis) only. Despite initial information suggesting broader compatibility, these door sill plates will NOT fit the CL-Class, CLS-Class, E-Class, S-Class, or any M-Class, GL-Class, GLE-Class, or GLS-Class SUVs. These vehicles do not share door or chassis components with the R231 SL-Class roadster. Purchasing these parts for any other model will result in an incorrect fit.
Symptoms of Failing Door Sill Plates
Problems with door sill plates are typically cosmetic or electrical. Since they do not affect the vehicle's mechanical operation, the severity is generally low, but can detract from the car's appearance and value.
1. Scratches, Dents, and Scuffs
This is the most common issue. The wide sills of the R231 SL make them prone to being kicked or scraped during entry and exit. The standard stainless steel plates are durable but can be scratched. While minor scuffs can sometimes be polished with specialized equipment, deep scratches or dents are often permanent and require part replacement to restore the appearance.
2. Illuminated Sill Not Lighting Up
For cars equipped with illuminated sills, a common failure is for one or both sides to stop working. The issue can stem from several sources:
- Failed Inverter: Each illuminated sill has a small black box, an inverter, that powers the light. These inverters can fail over time, cutting power to the sill plate.
- Bad Door Latch Switch: The car knows the door is open via a microswitch in the door latch mechanism. If this switch fails, it won't trigger the sill to light up. Often, a failing switch will also prevent the interior dome lights from turning on when that specific door is opened.
- Wiring Issues: The wires leading to the sill plate can become damaged or disconnected, though this is less common than an inverter or switch failure.
3. Loose Fit or Rattling
The sill plates are secured by plastic clips and adhesive. Over time, the clips can break or the adhesive can fail, causing the plate to become loose, rattle, or lift up at the edges. This can allow dirt and moisture to get trapped underneath.
Buying a Used R231 Door Sill Plate
Buying a used door sill plate is a great way to save money, especially compared to the high cost of new OEM parts. However, careful inspection is key to getting a good part.
What to Inspect on a Used Part
- Check the Finish: Inspect the surface closely for deep scratches, dents, or peeling of the finish. Ask for high-resolution photos in bright light if buying online. Remember that stainless steel scratches are very difficult to polish out by hand.
- Inspect All Mounting Tabs: Turn the part over and check the condition of all plastic mounting clips and tabs. These are critical for a secure, rattle-free installation. If any are broken, the plate may not sit flush.
- Verify Illumination: If buying an illuminated version, ask the seller to test it and provide a photo or video of it lit up. A non-working used sill is a gamble, as you won't know if the problem is the sill itself or the inverter.
- Confirm the Exact Style: Mercedes offered different finishes and lettering (e.g., 'Mercedes-Benz' vs. 'AMG'). Ensure the part you're buying matches your remaining sill plate and your vehicle's trim level.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the door sill plates on the R231 SL-Class. However, general cosmetic issues are common. Forum discussions frequently mention the stainless steel plates being susceptible to scratches. For illuminated versions, failure of the inverter or the door's microswitch are the most cited causes of them not working. Additionally, a class-action lawsuit has been filed concerning cracking interior wood veneer trim on many 2013-2022 Mercedes models, which could be relevant if your SL-Class has wood trim elements near the sills.
Cost & Replacement Information
Replacing a door sill plate is a straightforward DIY job for most owners. The non-illuminated versions are often held on by clips and can be carefully pried off with plastic trim removal tools. Illuminated versions require unplugging a small electrical connector. Retrofitting illuminated sills onto a car that didn't have them is a more involved process requiring additional wiring.
| Part | Estimated Cost (New OEM) | Estimated Cost (Used OEM) | Shop Labor Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Door Sill Plate (per side) | $200 - $350 | $75 - $150 | $50 - $100 |
| Illuminated Door Sill Plate (per side) | $400 - $600+ | $150 - $300 | $100 - $200 (replacement), $250+ (diagnosis) |
Pro Tip: If your illuminated sill isn't working, first check if the interior dome lights come on when you open that door. If they don't, the problem is likely the door latch switch, which is a cheaper and different repair than replacing the entire sill assembly.
How to Verify Paint Code
While the door sill plates themselves are not painted to match the vehicle's exterior, knowing your paint code is essential for other repairs. On the 2013-2020 R231 SL-Class, the paint code is located on a black sticker in the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look at the frame area near the latch. The sticker will list the VIN, and near the top, you will find a three-digit number; this is your paint code. For example, code 197 is Obsidian Black Metallic.
🎬 Watch this video to find the paint code on your R231.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I polish the scratches out of my stainless steel door sills?
It is very difficult. While a professional with a machine polisher might have some success on light scuffs, deep scratches are nearly impossible to remove without altering the brushed finish of the metal. Most owners find that replacement is the only way to achieve a perfect look.
My illuminated sill stopped working. What's the most likely cause?
The most common causes are a failed door latch microswitch or a failed power inverter for the sill itself. If other lights activated by the door opening (like the dome light) also don't work, the problem is likely the switch. If only the sill is out, the inverter is a strong suspect.
Is it difficult to replace a door sill plate?
No, it is generally an easy DIY task. Using plastic trim removal tools helps prevent scratching the surrounding paint or plastic. The plates are typically held by clips and adhesive. You carefully pry the old one off, clean the surface, and snap the new one into place. 🎬 See this walkthrough on how to replace your door sills. The illuminated versions have one electrical connector to unplug and reconnect.
Can I add illuminated sills to my car if it didn't come with them?
Yes, it is possible, but it is more complex than a simple replacement. You will need to run wiring from a power source that is active when the door is open. While some cars may have the necessary wiring pre-installed, many do not, requiring a more involved installation process.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 2316900600 A2316900600 23169006009J25 A2316808500 A2316803836 A2316806201 A2316902741
Material: Stainless Steel, Plastic. Optional: LED or Electroluminescent illumination.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Mercedes-Benz SL-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz CL-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz GL-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz M-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz ML-Class:
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe:
- Mercedes-Maybach S-Class:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- A Note on Vehicle Fitment
- Symptoms of Failing Door Sill Plates
- 1. Scratches, Dents, and Scuffs
- 2. Illuminated Sill Not Lighting Up
- 3. Loose Fit or Rattling
- Buying a Used R231 Door Sill Plate
- What to Inspect on a Used Part
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Cost & Replacement Information
- How to Verify Paint Code
- Frequently Asked Questions
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