The model of the car is SL55 with the R230 chassis and P30 package.

[paulh2602601]

I have owned two SL55s. My first car was a 2003 model, which had all the associated problems. I have just acquired a pre-owned 2007 P30 vehicle with a mileage of 72,000. However, the condition of the roads in New York is severely affecting the comfort of my trip. The rear of the vehicle exhibits lateral movement when encountering bumps when turning, and it provides a rough ride on uneven roads while travelling in a straight line. While the 2003 model had a driving experience similar to that of a touring car, the 2007 model feels excessively rough and is not suitable for any track that is not in immaculate condition. Is this a typical occurrence for SL55 P30 owners?

The automobile is in excellent condition. Was it a mistake to purchase a P30 with the intention of using it as a "track car"? Is it possible to adjust the car's responsiveness to a gentler setting using Star? If not, would it be feasible to purchase an ABC computer from eBay at a lower cost and replace it, with the intention of changing it back for the future owner? Alternatively, are the rear struts in a P30 changed in a way that would need reprogramming the newly acquired (used) unit?

When discussing the suspension of ABC, it is often recommended to replace the accumulators. The automobile has never shown any warning lights, never experienced any decrease in performance, and reacts correctly to the raise / lower button. Therefore, I am reluctant to invest a significant amount of money just to discover that the car was operating within the specified parameters.

Seeking input from P30 owners or technicians with expertise with the P30 system, particularly those who have experience reprogramming or swapping the ABC computer or adjusting the ride quality using STAR. Detailed instructions are requested.

[DenishP4]

I am unfamiliar with the p30, but, prior to undergoing significant surgical procedures, I would inquire about the potential installation of larger rims that may be prone to collision and damage on poorly maintained roads. Additionally, maintaining the correct tyre pressure is crucial since excessive inflation may result in an uncomfortable ride, particularly on surfaces that are not perfectly smooth.

[paulh2602601]

I agree with your adherence to Occam's razor principle. I keep the pressure at the lowest level that is advised.

The 19" rims on my '03 vehicle are equipped with low profile tyres, which distinguishes them from other models. However, I often had tyre blowouts on the front wheels of the '03 model, although I have not seen this issue with the '07 model on the same routes.

Based on my experience, the system is more relevant. I would appreciate input from P30 owners about the initial ride quality and the probability of the issue being related to the ABC computer, the accumulators, or any other factor that I may not have taken into account.

[BENZE220AMG]

During the time when I had a r230 with ABC, I recall coming across a page online that outlined the specific criteria for testing faulty accumulators, pumps, and other components. Apologies, but I am unable to recall the specific website. However, if you are able to locate it, it may assist you in diagnosing any potential issues.

[paulh2602601]

I will do a search for it. Thank you.

[trikey]

The new accumulators in my SL55 have resulted in a much rougher ride. I had always attributed it to the 19-inch rims and low-profile tyres.

[paulh2602601]

Do the 19-inch rims on your vehicle indicate that it has a P30 build? My 2003 car, which was neither a P30 or F1 model, had 18-inch wheels and provided a smooth ride on uneven terrain. What is the year of manufacture of your car? What was the reason for replacing the accumulators?

[trikey]

Attempt this location

https://www.abcspecialist.nl/uploads/documents/active_body_control_uk_2019_watermark.pdf

Alternatively

https://mercedes-abc-drive-carefully.blogspot.com/2014/08/overview-abc-system-isthe-key-part-of.html?m=1

[paulh2602601]

Expressing gratitude!

[BENZE220AMG]

My vehicle has split rims, but I am unsure whether they were factory-installed or why they were included. My car is a 2003 model. The pulsation damper malfunctioned, causing it to dislodge and take a hose along with it. Therefore, I modified all of them. They have a limited lifespan, therefore I suggest replacing them when they reach around 40,000 to 50,000 kilometres.

I conducted a discussion discussing the procedure of replacing...

[paulh2602601]

After attempting several difficult, intricate, and sophisticated approaches without success, I decided to take a straightforward approach: I deflated the tyres. Prior to proceeding, I spoke with Michelin on the specific tolerances for the Pilot Super Sports. They directed me to the placard on the vehicle, which indicated that the recommended tyre pressure is 35psi for the front tyres and 36psi for the rear tyres. However, they mistakenly said that the correct tyre pressures are 36psi for the front tyres and 38psi for the rear tyres. Based on their inaccurate quotation, I reduced the tyre pressure to 90% of the recommended inflation level, namely 32 PSI in the front tyres and 34 PSI in the rear tyres. The change was significant: the firmness remained, but the issue of skipping across uneven ground was resolved.

Based on my study, it has been determined that the Mercedes TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) has a tolerance of 25% deflation before the warning light is activated. Can someone verify this? Thus far, the situation is satisfactory. I acknowledge that there may be drawbacks in terms of gas economy and uneven wear, but if someone is concerned about the overall expenses, this automobile is not suitable for them. Although there may be a little decrease in handling performance, it still outperforms the majority of vehicles, with just a few exceptions, including the standard SL55. Hopefully, the severity of the probable pothole blowout condition will not worsen.

The merchant exhibited amiable behaviour, although lacked knowledge or understanding. They manoeuvred the vehicle throughout nearby respectable roads and proclaimed it flawless. For those who are inquisitive (and want to verify their own chassis / VIN #), it should be noted that the P30 has distinct struts for the front and rear, which are regulated by the same ABC Module (potential programming disparities remain unknown). If someone has knowledge about the specific programming differences of the module, do provide the information.

Thank you to all who shared their knowledge generously. I appreciate all of your views and suggestions.

Take care.

[BENZE220AMG]

Fascinating 👍 I may adjust the pressures on my device.

[QuirkyPixel]

Your batteries are damaged. I find it astonishing that the ABC light does not illuminate each time you encounter a pothole.

Exclude it from sports and substitute the accumulators.

[paulh2602601]

We appreciate your contribution. Do you own a P30?

Do the observations that the vehicle maintains its height without sagging even after being stationary for weeks, remains level, uniformly adjusts the height of all wheels when the height + button is pressed, returns to its original position on the third press, and does not display any warning signals, indicate that the car's suspension system may be responsible for these characteristics? In addition, it should be noted that the act of reducing the air pressure in the tyres has effectively altered the characteristics of the ride to a satisfactory extent.

I have come across several theories indicating that the accumulators may be responsible for the harshness experienced during a ride, but only when one or more of the aforementioned symptoms are present with the complaint. A seasoned mechanic suggested that the issue may perhaps lie in the pulse dampeners. Similarly, I have come across accounts of individuals who replaced the accumulators but saw no difference, particularly when they did not have any additional symptoms.

The automatic reaction to replace the accumulators on an ABC2 automobile may not always be accurate. If a person has a hard ride with a P30, the final resort is to remove and test the components, since there are no other methods available. AMG and another P30 owner both confirmed that, based on my description, the vehicle was in satisfactory condition in answer to my inquiry. The automobile was designed for track use and not suitable for uneven surfaces. Are you aware that it uses distinct struts?

Regrettably, despite its beauty and sturdiness, this exquisite vehicle was not suitable for the deteriorating condition of the outdated road network. I am uncertain of your location in Texas, but having lived in both Austin and Houston, I can confidently state that both relatively modern cities possess roads that would impress any automobile.

Optimal.