Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer / Performance Roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops specializing in Mercedes-Benz, DIY mechanics with advanced technical skills.
Competitors:
Porsche 911 (996 generation), BMW Z8, Ferrari 360 Modena, Aston Martin DB7 Vantage.
Vehicle Focus:
High-performance AMG variant of the R230 SL-Class roadster, combining luxury, advanced technology, and potent V8 power.
Manual Advantage:
Official, factory-level information providing unparalleled accuracy and detail for servicing and repairing this complex vehicle.
Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, diagnostics, maintenance, and electrical schematics for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG.
Page Count:
Estimated 1500+ pages (Software)
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Digital Download/CD-ROM - implies searchable PDF/Proprietary Application)
Powertrain:
Engine (5.4L Supercharged V8 M113 E55 ML), Transmission (5-Speed Automatic 5G-TRONIC), Differential, Driveshafts, Axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (ABC Active Body Control), Steering (Hydraulic Power Steering), Brakes (Performance Braking System, ABS, ESP), Wheels and Tires.
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Infotainment, CAN Bus Communication, SRS Airbag System, Active Suspension Electronics.
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism (Vario-Roof), Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding charts, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting, engine performance issues.
Repair:
Engine component repair/replacement (supercharger, intercooler, pistons, valves), transmission overhaul, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement (struts, hydraulic lines), steering system repair, convertible top mechanism repair.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis), sensor testing, actuator testing, module programming/coding (requires specialized equipment).
Depth:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, wiring diagrams, exploded views, component identification, overhaul procedures.
Engine Type:
V8, SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder, Supercharged with Intercooler
Displacement:
5.4 Liters (5439 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 92.0 mm
Horsepower:
493 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque:
516 lb-ft (700 Nm) @ 2650-4500 rpm
Supercharger Type:
Lysholm Twin-Screw Supercharger
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic with Manual Shift Mode (AMG SPEEDSHIFT)
Gear Ratios:
3.207 (1st), 2.109 (2nd), 1.407 (3rd), 1.000 (4th), 0.729 (5th), 4.375 (Reverse)
Features:
Torque converter lock-up, adaptive shift programs, performance-oriented shift points.
Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 (or equivalent approved fluid, e.g., Mobil ATF 134, Pentosin ATF1)
Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (17.8 Pints) for complete refill (check manual for precise amount).
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated, but features extensive safety systems.
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), BAS (Brake Assist System), Traction Control (ASR).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags, head airbags (in A-pillars and doors), knee airbag (driver).
Rollover Protection:
Integrated rollover protection system with pop-up hoops behind headrests.
System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation System) with CD player, radio, optional navigation, and climate control integration.
Connectivity:
Optional teleaid system, early Bluetooth integration (via cradle), CD changer.
Suspension:
Active Body Control (ABC) offering adaptive damping and load leveling.
Lighting:
Bi-Xenon headlights with automatic leveling, fog lamps.
Seats:
Multi-contour heated and ventilated seats with memory, dynamic side bolsters.
Roof:
Electro-hydraulic Vario-Roof (retractable hardtop).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific oil quality requirements.
Transmission Service:
Every 40,000-60,000 miles or as indicated by the transmission fluid level/condition sensor. Fluid and filter change recommended.
Engine Oil:
Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic (MB 229.5 or MB 229.3).
Coolant:
MB 325.0 (or equivalent OAT coolant, typically blue or green).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S (MB 343.0).
Abc Suspension Leaks:
Common issues include ABC hydraulic fluid leaks from hoses, struts, and the ABC pump. Requires specialized diagnostic tools and procedures.
Ignition Coils:
Premature failure of ignition coils can lead to misfires and rough running.
Supercharger Intercooler Pump:
The electric intercooler pump can fail, leading to reduced engine power.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Hydraulic cylinders and seals for the Vario-Roof can leak or fail, requiring complex repair.
Transmission Conductor Plate:
The conductor plate in the 5G-TRONIC transmission can fail, causing shifting issues or loss of drive.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing high-quality luxury and performance vehicles, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
R230 Generation:
The R230 platform replaced the R129 SL-Class and introduced significant advancements in technology, particularly the Active Body Control (ABC) suspension.
Sl55 Introduction:
The SL55 AMG was a flagship model of the R230 generation, representing the pinnacle of performance and luxury offered by Mercedes-Benz at the time.
Production Years R230:
2002-2008
Amg Focus:
AMG (Aufrecht, Melcher, Großaspach) is Mercedes-Benz's high-performance division, responsible for tuning and enhancing their vehicles.
