Market Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer / Sports Convertible
Competitors 2003:
Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, BMW 6 Series Convertible (E64 - introduced late 2003/early 2004), Jaguar XK8 Convertible, Lexus SC 430
Design Philosophy:
Combines high performance, luxurious comfort, and advanced technology in a sophisticated roadster package. Retractable hardtop offers coupe versatility.
R230 Generation Significance:
Marked a significant technological leap with the introduction of Active Body Control (ABC) suspension and the Vario-Roof retractable hardtop.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Powertrain, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Bodywork, Climate Control, Infotainment, Safety Systems, Convertible Top Operation, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications, Owner Information
Approximate Page Count:
300-400 pages (typical for this model/year range)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual / User's Manual / Operator's Manual
Engine Systems:
113.992 (5.0L V8), 113.992 Supercharged (5.5L V8 AMG); engine identification, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control
Transmission Drivetrain:
5G-TRONIC (722.6) automatic transmission; gear selection, operation, fluid specifications
Chassis Suspension Steering:
ABC (Active Body Control) suspension system, power steering operation
Braking System:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake system overview
Electrical Lighting Accessories:
Instrument cluster, lighting controls, power windows, mirrors, seats, audio system, navigation system (if equipped), keyless entry, convertible top controls
Convertible Top Hardtop System:
Operation and care of the Vario-Roof retractable hardtop, remote operation
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement procedures
Operation Controls:
Detailed explanation of all dashboard controls, infotainment system, climate control, seat adjustments, convertible top operation
Safety Features:
Explanation of airbags, seatbelt usage, child seat installation recommendations
Emergency Procedures:
Tire changing (spare tire location or tire mobility kit, jack points), jump starting, towing information
Depth:
Consumer-oriented, focusing on operation, maintenance, and driver information. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a Service Manual.
File Format Details:
Physical printed document. High-resolution scans of original pages for digital versions.
Print Quality:
High-quality printing on durable paper, mirroring original manufacturer specifications.
Binding Type:
Perfect bound or saddle-stitched, depending on original publication.
Paper Type:
Glossy or semi-gloss, acid-free paper suitable for long-term storage and use.
Sl500 Engine:
M113 E50 (113.992); 5.0-liter (4966 cc) Naturally Aspirated SOHC 24-valve V8
Sl55 Amg Engine:
M113 ML55 (113.992); 5.5-liter (5439 cc) Supercharged SOHC 24-valve V8 (AMG)
Sl500 Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Sl500 Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Sl55 Amg Horsepower:
469 hp @ 6100 rpm
Sl55 Amg Torque:
516 lb-ft @ 2650-4500 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Induction Type:
SL500: Multi-point Fuel Injection; SL55 AMG: Lysholm-type twin-screw supercharger with intercooler, Multi-point Fuel Injection
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger) - Based on similar year R230 models
IIHS Ratings:
Good in frontal offset crash tests (for vehicles of this era)
Active Safety Systems:
ABS, EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), ESP (Traction Control and Stability Control)
Active Suspension:
Active Body Control (ABC) - hydropneumatic suspension offering variable ride height and damping
Passive Safety Systems:
Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, integrated roll-over protection (pop-up bars)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with belt tensioners and force limiters
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with CD player, optional navigation, and harman/kardon premium audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Parktronic parking assist (optional), tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Connectivity Features:
Integrated phone system (optional), remote keyless entry.
Convenience Features:
Heated and ventilated seats, multi-contour seats with massage function (optional), bi-xenon headlamps with adaptive lighting.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific "Assyst" service indicator guidance.
Major Service Intervals:
Major services (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid) usually around 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on specific service type indicated by Assyst.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.10 approved ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid), e.g., Mobil ATF 134.
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (MB 325.0), typically a blue silicate-free formula.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Engine Oil Capacity Sl500:
Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Capacity Sl55:
Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Common R230 Issues:
ABC suspension leaks (struts, hoses, pump), convertible top hydraulic cylinder leaks, ignition coil failures, mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, camshaft position sensor failures, battery drain.
Preventative Maintenance Focus:
Regular ABC system fluid and filter changes are critical. Keep battery terminals clean and charged. Monitor convertible top operation for any sluggishness.
Mercedes Benz Heritage:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and innovation in automotive technology.
Sl Class Lineage:
The SL-Class (Sport Leicht) has been a flagship roadster for Mercedes-Benz since the iconic 300 SL 'Gullwing' of the 1950s, known for its performance and style.
R230 Generation Production:
Produced from 2001 (model year 2002) to 2011. The 2003 model represents an early iteration of this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
