Product Name:
Mercedes-Benz SL Class R230 2003-2011 Full Service & Repair Manual Download PDF
Production Years Covered:
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Vehicle Class:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT) convertible
Target Audience:
Owners and independent technicians seeking comprehensive repair and maintenance information for the R230 SL-Class.
Competitors Manuals:
This manual provides equivalent or superior detail to manufacturer-issued workshop manuals, offering a cost-effective alternative.
Manual Features:
Detailed photos, exploded diagrams, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting guides, and complete factory specifications.
Value Proposition:
Empowers users with the knowledge to perform extensive repairs and maintenance, saving on dealership service costs.
Engine Variants Covered:
Varies by specific model year and market. Includes V8 and V12 gasoline engines commonly found in the R230 chassis.
Global Coverage:
Covers specifications and procedures applicable to vehicles sold in major global markets, with potential regional variations noted.
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but described as extensive)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, engine management systems.
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 7G-TRONIC), differential, drive axles, propeller shaft.
Chassis And Suspension:
Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, steering system, wheel bearings, brakes (including SBC/ABS/ESP), wheels, tires.
Electrical And Electronics:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems, battery, charging system, starter, fuse/relay locations, electronic control units (ECUs), infotainment, navigation, climate control, seat adjustment, convertible top mechanism.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top structure, interior trim, seats, airbags.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, inspection procedures.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including disassembly, assembly, and adjustment.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and procedures utilizing diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS).
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing common wear items and major components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complex system diagnostics and rebuilds.
Detail Level:
High detail with step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, and clear diagrams/photos.
Compatibility:
Fully compatible with Windows and MAC operating systems.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Allows printing of single pages or the entire manual.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Licensing Terms:
Lifetime use, no expiry dates, no renewal fees, usable on multiple computers.
Engine Code Examples:
M113 (5.0L V8), M113 E55 (5.4L V8 Supercharged), M272 (3.5L V6 - later facelift models), M273 (5.5L V8), M156 (6.2L V8 AMG), M137 (5.8L V12 - early R230) etc.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 302 hp (SL500) to 600+ hp (SL65 AMG)
Torque Range:
Approx. 339 lb-ft (SL500) to 738 lb-ft (SL65 AMG)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Injection System:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Transmission Type Common:
5-speed Automatic (e.g., 5G-TRONIC)
Transmission Type Advanced:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC) on later models (e.g., SL550, SL500 facelift)
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with driver-selectable modes (Comfort, Sport).
Transmission Fluid Type Example:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (for 7G-TRONIC) or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1)
Length:
Approx. 4537 mm (178.6 in) for early models, slightly longer on later models.
Width:
Approx. 1809 mm (71.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1300 mm (51.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1850 kg (4079 lbs) to over 2000 kg (4409 lbs) depending on engine and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 2250 kg.
Crash Safety Framework:
Built to meet stringent Mercedes-Benz safety standards, often exceeding regulatory requirements.
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) on early models, Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM).
Passive Safety Features:
Advanced airbag system (front, side, knee), roll-over protection (pop-up roll bars), reinforced A-pillars, seatbelt pre-tensioners.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with radio, CD player, navigation, and optional Harman Kardon audio.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional features like Distronic (adaptive cruise control), Parktronic (parking assist), Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering function.
Connectivity Features:
Early models may have telematics systems; later models with Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using the Flexible Service System (ASSYST).
Transmission Service Interval:
Recommended service every 40,000 - 60,000 miles, including fluid and filter change, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Specification Example:
MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol SLX 0W-40)
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent, typically a blue-green silicate-based coolant)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus or equivalent.
Active Body Control Abc Suspension:
Hydraulic leaks from struts, pump failure, ABC control module faults, fluid contamination.
Sensotronic Brake Control Sbc Early Models:
Service life limitation ('Servicing Required' message), pump failure, loss of brake pressure.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Hydraulic leaks, pump issues, sensor failures, linkage problems, seal wear.
Electrical System:
Can be complex; issues with SAM units, CAN bus communication, battery drain.
Manufacturer Reputation:
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for automotive engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation dating back to the late 19th century.
R230 Generation Overview:
The R230 generation represents the fifth iteration of the SL-Class, introduced in 2001 for the 2003 model year, succeeding the R129. It featured a retractable vario-roof (hardtop convertible) and advanced technology like Active Body Control (ABC) and Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC).
Facelifts:
The R230 underwent significant updates, notably a facelift for the 2007 model year which introduced revised styling, new engines (e.g., M273 V8, M275 V12 Bi-Turbo), a conventional hydraulic braking system replacing SBC, and updated interior and technology features.
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany
Automotive Awards General:
The SL-Class generally receives accolades for its luxury, performance, and technological advancements from various automotive publications.
Reliability Ratings Context:
While German luxury cars often have higher maintenance costs, specific reliability ratings can vary by model year and how well the vehicle has been maintained. This manual is key to ensuring proper care.
Manual Quality Certification:
Described as 'Professional Manual' used by mechanics, implying adherence to industry standards for repair documentation.
