Segment:
Compact premium roadster/sports car.
Key Competitors:
BMW Z4, Audi TT, Porsche Boxster, Chevrolet Corvette (entry-level trims).
Unique Selling Points:
Retractable vario-roof, balanced chassis, luxurious interior, Mercedes-Benz build quality and brand prestige.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts seeking in-depth technical knowledge.
Benefit:
Enables accurate diagnosis, efficient repair, and proper maintenance, saving time and money compared to dealership service.
Powertrain:
Engine (M272 E30), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system.
Drivetrain:
7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, driveshafts, differential, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS, ESP), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), lighting systems, infotainment, power accessories, charging system, starting system, diagnostics (OBD-II).
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, seating systems, convertible hardtop mechanism (Vario-Roof), climate control system, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all major systems, use of Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS).
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment across all vehicle systems, including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and electrical components.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for major component overhauls, such as engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and suspension component refurbishment.
Depth:
Expert-level technical information, including torque specifications, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), repair times, special tool requirements, and detailed component schematics.
Engine Type:
V6, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2996 cc)
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 @ 2500-5000 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection
Type:
7-speed automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Features:
TouchShift manual shifting, Comfort and Sport modes.
Type:
6-speed manual (less common)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.14
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for comparable model years/trims)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for comparable model years/trims)
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR)
Airbags:
Driver, passenger, side airbags, head airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bars.
Audio System:
Optional COMAND APS infotainment system with DVD navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, optional Harman Kardon surround sound.
Display:
Central color display for audio, navigation, and vehicle settings.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors.
Bluetooth:
Standard for hands-free calling.
System Type:
Automatic climate control (THERMATIC or optional THERMOTRONIC).
Major Service A:
Approx. 10,000 miles or 1 year. Includes synthetic oil change, filter replacement (oil, air), multi-point inspection.
Major Service B:
Approx. 20,000 miles or 2 years. Includes Service A items plus cabin air filter replacement, brake fluid flush (every 2 years), spark plug replacement (typically at 60k miles, refer to manual).
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 (MB Approval 229.5) or equivalent.
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters)
Coolant:
MB 325.0 / 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Common Problems:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, oil leaks from valve covers or oil cooler seals, pre-catalytic converter failure, ECP module failures, Vario-Roof hydraulic leaks or sensor malfunctions, O2 sensor failures.
Troubleshooting Tips:
Regularly check for check engine lights, unusual engine noises, or Vario-Roof operation issues. Use diagnostic tools to pinpoint faults accurately.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, a pioneer in automotive engineering and luxury vehicles since the late 19th century.
R171 Generation:
Second generation of the SLK-Class, produced from 2004 to 2011. Featured the innovative 'Vario-Roof' retractable hardtop.
Slk300 Positioning:
Introduced for the 2009 model year, replacing the SLK280, offering a balance of performance and efficiency within the SLK lineup.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany