Positioning:
The 2011 SLK350 (R172) represents Mercedes-Benz's compact luxury roadster, competing with models like the BMW Z4 and Audi TT.
Competitors:
BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, Porsche Boxster, Chevrolet Corvette.
Highlights:
Retractable hardtop (VARIO-ROOF), powerful V6 engine, advanced safety features, premium interior appointments.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated and performance-oriented convertible experience.
General Coverage:
Comprehensive service and repair for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK350
Specific Systems:
Engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical system, HVAC, bodywork, interior
Type:
Official Service & Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (likely searchable PDF or proprietary application)
Powertrain:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for the M272 V6 engine and associated components.
Drivetrain:
Service and repair of the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, differential, and drive shafts.
Chassis:
Suspension (front strut, rear multi-link), steering (electro-hydraulic power steering), and braking systems (ABS, ESP, SBC components).
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for all ECUs, sensor testing, and repair of lighting, audio, and comfort systems.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, convertible hardtop mechanism service, interior trim removal and installation, HVAC system service, SRS airbag system diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, fault code interpretation, diagnostic tool usage (e.g., STAR Diagnosis/XENTRY).
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including torque specifications and specialized tool requirements.
Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for engine component rebuilding, transmission overhaul, and brake caliper service.
Depth:
Professional-level diagnostics, repair, and component replacement, suitable for dealership technicians and experienced DIYers.
Diagnostic Tools:
References to and guidance for using Mercedes-Benz proprietary diagnostic equipment (e.g., XENTRY, WIS).
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V6
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3498 cc)
Engine Code Details:
Likely M272.962
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-48 equivalent or MB Part # 000 989 10 25)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters
Transmission Type:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Optional Transmission:
None offered for SLK350 in 2011
Shift Modes:
Comfort (C), Sport (S), Manual (M) modes via shift lever selector
Fluid Type:
MB Approval 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1, Fuchs Titan ATF 4134, or MB Part # 001 989 68 03)
Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (dry fill), 7.0 Liters (service fill)
NHTSA Rating:
Not explicitly rated for 2011 model year by NHTSA, but generally high safety standards.
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard ESP (Electronic Stability Program) with ABS, ASR (Traction Control), BAS (Brake Assist).
Brake System:
Ventilated front and solid rear disc brakes.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags, knee airbags (driver).
Rollover Protection:
Integrated rollover protection system with deployable hoops.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters, Active Head Restraints (Neck-Pro).
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation), Media Interface (Aux, USB), optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Display:
5.8-inch color display, with Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Adaptive Headlights:
Optional bi-xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination.
Parking Assistance:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors and rearview camera.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC speed limiter.
Bluetooth:
Standard Bluetooth interface for phone and audio streaming.
Airscarf:
Optional AIRSCARF neck-level heating system.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, based on ASSYST PLUS system monitoring.
Major Service Interval:
Service A and Service B cycles, occurring alternately every ~10,000 miles. Includes inspection, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, MB Approval 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 Peak Performance 0W-40, Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (with filter)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Approval 331.0 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
Hydraulic Fluid (refer to manual for specific MB approval, often ATF MB 236.3 or similar)
Common Wear Items:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, serpentine belt, front suspension bushings, VANOS solenoids (M272 engine), oil cooler seals.
Convertible Top Issues:
Actuator leaks, sensor faults, hydraulic fluid leaks in the VARIO-ROOF system.
Engine Specific Concerns:
M272 engine: Timing chain tensioner wear, balance shaft issues (though less prevalent in later M272 revisions), intake manifold flaps.
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, is renowned for luxury, engineering excellence, and automotive innovation.
Slk Lineage:
The R172 SLK is the third generation of the SLK-Class, succeeding the R171 (2004-2010) and introducing significant technological and design updates.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
Production Years:
R172: 2011-2015
Design Awards:
The R172 SLK garnered critical acclaim for its updated styling and refined interior, often cited for its premium feel.
Reliability Ratings:
While Mercedes-Benz generally receives good reliability ratings, specific model year performance can vary. The 2011 R172 is considered robust, but adherence to the service schedule outlined in the manual is crucial.
Official Licensing:
Officially Licensed Service and Repair Manual Software
