🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SLK230

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

R170

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK230 (R170) was a pioneering compact roadster, often referred to as the 'Baby Benz' SLK. It aimed to bring the luxury, performance, and innovative features of Mercedes-Benz to a smaller, sportier, and more accessible package, directly competing with offerings like the Porsche Boxster and BMW Z3.

Competitive Analysis:

The SLK230 distinguished itself with its unique 'Vari-Roof' retractable hardtop, offering coupe-like security and insulation with convertible freedom. This advanced feature, combined with Mercedes-Benz's reputation for build quality and safety, positioned it as a premium choice in the burgeoning segment of compact luxury sports cars.

Key Features:

Vari-Roof electro-hydraulic retractable hardtop, supercharged inline-four engine, rear-wheel drive, compact sports car styling, premium interior appointments, advanced safety features for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Bodywork, Diagnostic Procedures, Maintenance Schedules, Troubleshooting, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams.

Page Count:

Extensive (typically 800-1200+ pages for comprehensive software manuals covering multiple aspects).

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (e.g., PDF, proprietary executable).

License Type:

Officially Licensed Product.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (M111 E23 ML), Engine Management (ME Management System), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (5G-TRONIC 722.6), Rear Axle, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS), Climate Control (Klimaanlage), Body Electronics, Lighting, Instrumentation, Infotainment, Power Accessories (Windows, Seats, Top), SRS Airbag System, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II).

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Component Removal and Installation, Major Overhauls, Diagnostic Testing, Troubleshooting Faults, Repair Procedures, Component Adjustments, System Testing, Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Types, Special Tool Requirements.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body panel repair. Includes detailed torque specs, assembly sequences, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Diagnostic Tools Covered:

Procedures for using Mercedes-Benz proprietary diagnostic equipment (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS) and generic OBD-II scanners. Manual will include DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) definitions and troubleshooting trees.

Wiring Diagrams Coverage:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, color-coded and component-labeled for ease of tracing circuits.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely a compiled format (e.g., PDF, application with search functionality) for easy navigation and searching.

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital images and clear text, suitable for printing individual pages.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software).

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software).

Search Functionality:

Excellent. Digital formats typically allow for keyword searches, making it easy to locate specific repair procedures or technical data.

Update Frequency:

N/A (Static Digital Manual).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Supercharged Inline-4 Cylinder

Engine Code:

M111 E23 ML

Displacement:

2.3 Liters (2295 cc)

Horsepower:

192 hp @ 5300 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft (270 Nm) @ 2500-4900 rpm

0 60 Mph Acceleration:

Approximately 7.0-7.5 seconds.

Fuel System:

Bosch Motronic M2.8.3 Fuel Injection, Supercharger (Lysholm-type twin-screw).

Engine Management System:

ME Management System.

Spark Plugs:

NGK PFR52 (or equivalent).

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ, ACEA A3/B3 (Synthetic 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

5G-TRONIC (722.6).

Transmission Optional:

5-speed Manual Transmission (less common).

Transmission Features:

Electronic control, torque converter lock-up, adaptive shifting.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.10 (ATF 3353 or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts) for torque converter and lines refill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

157.2 in (3993 mm)

Width:

67.9 in (1725 mm)

Height:

50.1 in (1273 mm)

Wheelbase:

82.5 in (2096 mm)

Front Track:

58.3 in (1481 mm)

Rear Track:

57.0 in (1448 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 5.5 inches (140 mm).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3000 lbs (1315-1360 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3700 lbs (1678 kg)

Trunk Capacity:

8.0 cu ft (227 L) with roof up; significantly reduced with roof down.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific year/model in the same way modern vehicles are, but considered safe for its class.

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Not explicitly rated by IIHS for this specific year/model.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR - often standard or optional).

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and Passenger Airbags, Side Impact Protection (reinforcement in doors), Roll-Over Protection System (pop-up bars behind seats), crumple zones, seatbelt pre-tensioners.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

Srs Airbag System:

Comprehensive SRS system with front and side airbags. Manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player or cassette, optional Bose sound system. Basic analog climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, ASR (Traction Control).

Connectivity Options:

Basic in-car telephone preparation (optional), no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

Vari Roof Operation:

Electro-hydraulic operation, fully automated retraction and deployment of the hardtop. Manual details troubleshooting for hydraulic system, pumps, actuators, and control modules.

Interior Materials:

Premium materials including leather upholstery, wood or aluminum trim accents, and soft-touch plastics, indicative of Mercedes-Benz's luxury positioning.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-40,000 miles (48,000-64,000 km) for optimal performance and longevity.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years.

Engine Coolant:

MB Spec 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

MB Spec 236.3 (or Pentosin CHF 11S).

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Standard automotive washer fluid (e.g., concentrated or ready-to-use with de-icer properties).

Common Issues:

Vari-Roof hydraulic leaks and pump failure, MAF sensor issues, OVP relay problems, vacuum leaks, early transmission conductor plate issues, rust on wheel arches and sills.

Common Issues Detailed:

Hydraulic cylinders for the retractable roof can leak, leading to slow operation or failure. The integrated circuit in the OVP (Overvoltage Protection) relay is prone to failure, impacting various electrical systems. Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensors can become dirty or fail, affecting engine performance and fuel economy. Older transmissions may exhibit harsh shifting or slip due to worn conductor plates.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings in the front and rear suspension can wear over time, leading to clunking noises and reduced handling precision. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, is renowned for its engineering excellence, luxury, and safety innovations, consistently producing high-quality vehicles across various segments.

Model Evolution:

The R170 SLK generation debuted in 1996 as a revolutionary concept with its electro-hydraulic retractable hardtop. The SLK230 Kompressor, introduced in 1997, provided a supercharged engine option to enhance performance, becoming the flagship engine for much of the generation's run.

Production Years:

1996-2004 (R170 generation).

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Recognitions:

While specific major awards for the 1998 model might be scarce, the R170 platform was praised for its innovative retractable hardtop design and its successful execution of a compact luxury roadster concept.