🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SLK-Class

Model Variant:

SLK300, SLK350, SLK55 AMG

Model Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

R171

Slk300 Engine Code:

M272 E30 (2.997 cc)

Slk350 Engine Code:

M272 E35 (3.498 cc)

Slk55 Amg Engine Code:

M113 E55 ML (5.439 cc)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Luxury Sports Roadster / Convertible

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking a premium open-top driving experience with a blend of performance and everyday usability.

Key Competitors:

BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, Porsche Boxster, Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, Nissan 370Z Roadster.

Vario Roof:

Retractable hardtop offering coupe-like security and weather protection when raised, and open-air enjoyment when lowered.

Performance Options:

Choice of a responsive V6 (SLK350) or a potent V8 (SLK55 AMG) engine, alongside a capable V6 (SLK300).

Handling Dynamics:

Rear-wheel drive platform, sporty suspension tuning, and advanced electronic stability control for engaging driving dynamics.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual / User Manual / Operator's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (Typically Softcover)

Page Count Estimated:

300-400 pages (typical for Mercedes-Benz owner's manuals)

Document Id Indicator:

Likely includes variant-specific sections or references

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Operation:

Engine starting and stopping, operation of transmission modes (e.g., Comfort, Sport), fuel economy tips.

Vehicle Systems:

Climate control, lighting systems (interior/exterior), windshield wipers, power windows, mirrors, seat adjustment, convertible top operation (vario-roof).

Safety Systems:

Airbags, seatbelts, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), tire pressure monitoring, child restraint systems, emergency call system (eCall if equipped).

Infotainment And Electronics:

Audio system operation, navigation system (if equipped), COMAND APS system, Bluetooth connectivity, instrument cluster functions, warning lamps and indicators.

Maintenance And Care:

Fluid level checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, windshield wiper blade replacement, exterior and interior cleaning recommendations.

Driver Assistance:

Operation of cruise control, speed limiter, PARKTRONIC (parking assist system), LIGHT ASSIST (headlight control) if equipped.

Basic Operation:

Keyless-Go operation, remote key functions, parking brake engagement/disengagement, gear selection.

Convertible Top Operation:

Detailed instructions on operating the vario-roof, including manual closing procedures if battery is depleted.

Instrument Cluster Interpretation:

Explanation of all gauges, warning lights, and message displays.

Tire And Wheel Care:

Tire pressure recommendations, wheel torque specifications (general), advice on seasonal tire changes.

Emergency Procedures:

Jacking points, jump starting instructions, emergency toolkit location and usage.

Depth Level:

Owner-level (basic operation, fluid checks, warning light identification, minor maintenance, safety features). Does NOT contain detailed repair or diagnostic procedures typically found in a Service Manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Digital:

PDF (if digital version is offered)

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans for clear text and images.

Digital Searchability:

Searchable text enabled (OCR).

Print Quality Physical:

Professionally printed, clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type Physical:

Typically perfect bound or saddle-stitched for softcover.

Paper Type Physical:

Durable, glossy or matte coated paper for longevity and image clarity.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V6, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

2.997 cc (3.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

228 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

221 lb-ft @ 2400-3900 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 2.1)

Engine Type:

V6, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

3.498 cc (3.5 Liters)

Horsepower:

268 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

258 lb-ft @ 2400-3900 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 2.1)

Engine Type:

V8, Naturally Aspirated (Handcrafted by AMG)

Displacement:

5.439 cc (5.4 Liters)

Horsepower:

355 hp @ 5750 rpm

Torque:

376 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 2.8)

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic Engine Oil, MB 229.5 Specification (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Pennzoil Platinum Euro 0W-40)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Slk300 Transmission:

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)

Slk55 Amg Transmission:

7-Speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology) Automatic

Slk350 Transmission:

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)

Gear Selection Modes:

Comfort (C), Sport (S), Manual (M) modes with paddle shifters (standard on AMG, optional on others).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

MB 236.14 Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Febi Bilstein ATF 236.14, Pentosin ATF1)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 160.7 inches (4082 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

Approx. 50.5 inches (1283 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 94.5 inches (2401 mm)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112mm

Curb Weight Slk300:

Approx. 3197 lbs (1450 kg)

Curb Weight Slk350:

Approx. 3241 lbs (1470 kg)

Curb Weight Slk55 Amg:

Approx. 3362 lbs (1525 kg)

Trunk Volume Top Up:

Approx. 9.5 cu ft (268 Liters)

Trunk Volume Top Down:

Approx. 6.4 cu ft (181 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5-Star (Likely for driver and passenger, consult specific NHTSA reports for definitive 2009 R171 data).

IIHS Side Impact Test:

Good (Likely, as Mercedes-Benz models typically perform well in IIHS testing).

Esp Control:

Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control.

ABS Brakes:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist.

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags (integrated into seats), knee airbags (driver side), rollover protection system (integrated behind seats).

Seatbelts:

Pretensioners and force limiters, integrated seatbelt extenders (on door for easier reach).

💡 Technology Features

Comand System:

COMAND APS (Command, Audio, Navigation, Entertainment, and Communication) system with a central color display and rotary controller.

Audio Options:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.

Parking Aid:

PARKTRONIC system with front and rear parking sensors and visual/audible warnings.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control with speed limiter function.

Lighting Control:

Automatic headlights, fog lights, cornering lights (optional), rain-sensing wipers.

Bluetooth Interface:

Optional Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Airscarf:

Optional AIRSCARF system providing warm air from headrests for open-top driving in cooler conditions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, based on the Flexible Service System (FSS) indicator.

Major Service A:

Indicative mileage: 10,000 miles (replace engine oil and filter).

Major Service B:

Indicative mileage: 20,000 miles (includes Service A plus checks of various systems, potentially cabin air filter).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years (DOT 4 Plus or equivalent is typically specified).

Coolant Type:

MB 325.0 or 326.0 Specification (Antifreeze/Coolant concentrate, blue or green).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 Plus (e.g., Ate Typ 200, Pentosin DOT 4 LV).

Washer Fluid Spec:

Recommended Mercedes-Benz Screen Wash Concentrate or equivalent.

Common Wear Items:

Strut mounts, serpentine belts, ignition coils (especially on early M272/M273 engines), ABS/ESP sensors.

Vario Roof Mechanism:

Potential issues with hydraulic leaks, pump failures, or sensor malfunctions. Regular lubrication of pivot points is advised.

M272 Balance Shaft Issue:

Early production M272 engines had issues with the balance shaft sprocket material; however, 2009 models should have addressed this or be less prone. Check VIN for potential recalls/updates.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety innovations dating back to the late 19th century.

Slk Class Development:

The R171 generation (2004-2011) succeeded the R170 SLK. It featured a more aggressive styling, improved aerodynamics, and the introduction of the innovative AIRSCARF neck-level heating system (optional).

2009 Updates:

For the 2009 model year, the SLK-Class received minor styling tweaks and feature enhancements. The SLK280 was replaced by the SLK300 with a revised 3.0L V6 engine.

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward 360 Award:

The M272 engine powering the SLK350 was a multiple-time recipient of Ward's 10 Best Engines award, praised for its smooth power delivery and refinement.

Safety Awards Brand:

Mercedes-Benz consistently receives high safety ratings and numerous awards for its engineering and safety innovations across its model lineup.

Convertible Of The Year:

While specific model year awards vary, the SLK-Class has historically been recognized in luxury convertible segments by automotive publications.