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Precision-Lowered Handling for the R231 SL550 Without Adaptive Suspension Compromise
The H&R HRS28874-1 is a sport spring set engineered for the 2012-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL550 R231 equipped with the passive suspension system (without Active Body Control). H&R's Sport Springs lower the vehicle's center of gravity by reducing fender well gap and tightening suspension geometry to reduce body roll, sharpen turn-in response, and improve overall dynamic stability without sacrificing the ride quality expected of a grand touring roadster. The spring rate progression is tuned to match the SL550's weight and factory damper characteristics, allowing the Sport Springs to perform correctly with the factory passive shocks rather than requiring a full coilover conversion.
Key Features
- Application-Specific Rates: Spring rates are engineered specifically for the R231 SL550's weight distribution and passive shock calibration; not a universal sport spring
- Reduced Fender Well Gap: Lowers front and rear ride height to tighten the stance and reduce the visual gap between the tire and fender well
- Progressive Rate Design: Progressive winding provides a compliant initial response for daily driving and increased resistance at higher compression for cornering and load
- W/O ABC Specific: Designed for the passive suspension variant of the R231 SL550; not compatible with the Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic suspension system
- TUV and SAE Certified: H&R products meet TUV and SAE material and dimensional standards for performance spring manufacture
- Retains Factory Shock Absorbers: Designed to work with the factory passive shock absorbers; no shock replacement required for standard installation
Fitment Table
| Year Range | Make | Model | Trim |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012-2020 | Mercedes-Benz | SL550 | R231 (w/o ABC) |
Specifications
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Part Number | HRS28874-1 |
| Brand | H&R Springs |
| Application | 2012-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL550 R231 w/o ABC |
| Front Drop | ~1.25 in |
| Rear Drop | ~1.2 in |
| Spring Type | Progressive Rate Sport Spring |
| ABC Compatible | No (passive suspension only) |
| UPC | N/A |
What's Included
- 2x Front sport springs
- 2x Rear sport springs
About H&R Springs
H&R Springs is a German suspension manufacturer with over four decades of experience producing performance springs, coilovers, and sway bars for European and domestic platforms. Every H&R product is engineered and manufactured in Lennestadt, Germany, and certified to TUV and SAE standards for quality and dimensional consistency.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HRS28874-1?The HRS28874-1 is an H&R Sport Spring set for the 2012-2020 Mercedes-Benz SL550 R231 with passive suspension (without Active Body Control). It lowers front and rear ride height approximately 1.2 to 1.25 inches to reduce body roll and sharpen handling while retaining the factory passive shock absorbers.
Will these springs fit my SL550 if it has Active Body Control?No. The HRS28874-1 is specifically designed for the R231 SL550 equipped with the passive suspension system only. The Active Body Control variant uses a fully hydraulic suspension system that is not compatible with conventional coil springs. Verify which suspension system your vehicle has before ordering.
Do I need to replace my shock absorbers when installing these springs?Not as a requirement for standard installation. H&R Sport Springs are calibrated to work with the factory passive shock absorbers. However, if your factory shocks are worn, H&R and most performance installers recommend replacing them at the same time as the springs to maximize handling improvement and ensure the new spring rate is properly controlled.
How much does this kit lower the SL550?The HRS28874-1 lowers the R231 SL550 approximately 1.25 inches in front and 1.2 inches at the rear. Actual drop may vary slightly based on vehicle build date, optional equipment weight, and individual vehicle tolerances. H&R publishes application-specific drop specifications on their website for confirmed measurements.
Will these springs affect my warranty?Installing aftermarket springs may affect the factory suspension warranty. Consult your Mercedes-Benz dealer and review your warranty terms before installation. H&R products are TUV-certified, which provides documentation of quality and compliance standards, but this does not guarantee warranty preservation at every dealership.
Does this kit include bump stops or spring isolators?The HRS28874-1 includes the four springs only. Bump stops, spring isolators, and other suspension ancillaries are not included. Retain your factory bump stops and rubber isolators during installation unless they show signs of wear, in which case replace them with OEM equivalents.
Do I need an alignment after installing these springs?Yes. Any change in ride height changes suspension geometry, which will affect camber and toe alignment. A four-wheel alignment is required after spring installation to maintain proper tire wear, handling balance, and safe driving characteristics. Do not drive the vehicle on public roads for extended distances before performing a full alignment.
Is professional installation required?H&R strongly recommends professional installation by a qualified suspension shop. Spring installation requires a spring compressor, hydraulic lift, and torque wrench. Improper use of a spring compressor on coil springs can be dangerous. Always follow H&R's included installation instructions and the vehicle's factory torque specifications.
Installation Instructions
- Safely lift the vehicle on a hydraulic lift and support it at the factory lift points; do not support under the suspension components.
- Remove the wheel and tire on the corner being worked to access the spring and shock assembly.
- Use a proper coil spring compressor to safely compress the factory spring before unloading the suspension strut or shock.
- Remove the upper spring perch or strut mount hardware per the Mercedes-Benz workshop manual procedure for the R231.
- Extract the factory spring and retain the rubber isolator, bump stop, and any spacers for reuse or inspection.
- Install the H&R sport spring onto the lower perch, ensuring it seats correctly in the lower spring perch locating tab.
- Compress the new spring as needed to reinstall the upper perch or strut mount; do not overcompress.
- Reinstall the strut mount hardware and torque to Mercedes-Benz specification.
- Repeat for all remaining corners before lowering the vehicle.
- Lower the vehicle to the ground, settle the suspension by pushing down on each corner, and perform a full four-wheel alignment before returning to service.
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