Welcome to the comprehensive guide for your 2007 SLK-Class SLK280 (R171). This compact premium sports roadster is renowned for its sophisticated design, advanced engineering, and the exhilarating experience of its retractable hardtop. Powered by a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter V6 engine (M272.962) producing 228 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the SLK280 offers a refined yet engaging drive. Its sporty chassis, featuring independent suspension and advanced braking systems like ABS and ESP, ensures confident handling. The SLK-Class is celebrated for its luxurious interior, innovative technology, and the signature build quality, making it a standout choice for discerning drivers.
This owner's manual is meticulously designed to provide essential information for operating, maintaining, and understanding your SLK280. Inside, you will find detailed coverage of the vehicle's various systems, including the instrument cluster, entertainment and climate control systems, lighting, driver controls, locks and security, seating, and safety restraints. Furthermore, the manual offers guidance on basic maintenance procedures, such as fluid level checks and refill capacities, along with technical specifications and safety guidelines. Its purpose is to empower owners and technicians with the knowledge needed to ensure the optimal performance, reliability, and longevity of this exceptional vehicle.
Segment:
Compact Premium Sports Roadster
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a stylish, technologically advanced, and performance-oriented two-seater convertible with a luxury badge.
Key Competitors:
BMW Z4, Porsche Boxster, Audi TT Roadster, Chevrolet Corvette (lower trims)
Defining Feature:
Retractable hardtop (VARIO-ROOF), Mercedes-Benz build quality, advanced safety features, refined powertrain.
Main Areas:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for factory owner's manuals of this era)
Powertrain:
Engine (M272 V6), Transmission (7G-TRONIC Automatic)
Chassis:
Brakes (ABS, ESP), Suspension, Steering
Electrical:
Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Infotainment (Audio 20, COMAND optional), Climate Control (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), Power Locks, Security System, Power Seats, Convertible Top Operation
Operation:
Vehicle startup and shutdown, dashboard controls, seat adjustment, convertible top operation, infotainment system usage, climate control operation, lighting functions
Maintenance:
Fluid level checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure monitoring, basic cleaning procedures, recommended service intervals
Safety:
Seat belt usage, airbag system explanation, child seat installation guidance, emergency procedures
Depth:
Owner-level information focused on operation, basic maintenance checks, and understanding vehicle features. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or repair instructions found in a Service Manual.
Searchability:
Searchable text content
Quality:
Digital reproduction of factory original, maintaining layout and clarity.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Type:
V6, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
88.0 mm x 82.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Horsepower:
228 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
221 lb-ft @ 2700-5000 rpm
Injection:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Type:
7-speed Automatic Transmission (7G-TRONIC)
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (less common)
Automatic Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Specification 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent)
Length:
160.5 in (4077 mm)
Height:
51.0 in (1295 mm)
Wheelbase:
94.5 in (2400 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,373 lbs (1530 kg) for automatic transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4,178 lbs (1895 kg)
Trunk Volume Top Up:
10.2 cu ft (288 liters)
Trunk Volume Top Down:
6.5 cu ft (184 liters)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for 2007 SLK-Class models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for 2007 SLK-Class models)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags integrated into seat, rollover protection system (pop-up bars)
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and belt force limiters
Standard Audio:
Audio 20 CD system with AM/FM radio, CD player, and 6-speaker sound system.
Optional Audio Navigation:
Optional COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with larger display, navigation, and potentially CD changer/changer functionality.
Connectivity:
Optional Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid (emergency calling), Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones (often requiring an adapter or specific phone compatibility).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with speed limiter.
Parking Assistance:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors (front and rear).
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Vehicle's 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicator will prompt.
Major Service:
Around 30,000-60,000 miles for items like spark plugs, transmission service (fluid/filter), and brake fluid flush, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (MB Approval 229.5)
Engine Coolant:
MB Specification 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Specification 343.0 (or equivalent Pentosin CHF 11S)
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (bushings, ball joints), Vario-Roof hydraulic system seals, ignition coils, MAF sensor on early M272 engines (though less common on 3.0L compared to 3.5L variants).
Potential Electrical:
Occasional issues with window regulators or Vario-Roof control modules.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter HU716/2x, Bosch 0986452034 (verify for specific engine/VIN)
Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter C35149, K&N 33-2386 (verify for specific engine/VIN)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.4 US quarts (7.0 liters)
Establishment:
1926 (merger of Benz & Cie. and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft to form Daimler-Benz AG)
First Generation:
R170 (1996-2004)
Second Generation:
R171 (2004-2010). The 2007 SLK280 is part of this generation.
Design Philosophy:
Evolved from the compact Z3-inspired R170 to a more aggressive, muscular design for the R171, incorporating the 'single-headlight' look.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
Previous Model Year:
The R171 generation SLK-Class, including models like the SLK280, was generally well-received for its styling, refinement, and features, often being praised by automotive journalists for its blend of sportiness and comfort.
Consumer Reports:
Typically rated as average to above average for predicted reliability for Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era, with specific issues noted in the 'known_issues' section.
