Segment:
High-performance Grand Tourer (GT) convertible.
Target Audience:
Discerning automotive enthusiasts and owners seeking meticulous care and in-depth understanding of their SL55 AMG.
Competitors:
Porsche 911 Carrera, Aston Martin DB9, Ferrari 360 Modena.
Vehicle Highlight:
Combination of AMG's handcrafted performance engine, luxurious comfort, and advanced technology in a convertible body style.
Manual Benefit:
Provides official Mercedes-Benz technical data and procedures, ensuring accuracy and completeness for maintenance and repair.
Engine:
5.4L Supercharged V8 (M113K), including supercharger, intercooler, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication.
Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6), including control module, torque converter, gear selection, fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, differential, axles, driveshafts, CV joints.
Suspension:
Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system, hydraulic lines, accumulators, struts, control arms, sway bars.
Brakes:
High-performance braking system, ABS, ESP, brake fluid service, rotor and pad replacement, hydraulic components.
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering, steering rack, tie rods, power steering fluid.
Electrical System:
12V battery, alternator, starter, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams, lighting system, power accessories, CAN bus communication.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible roof mechanism, interior trim, seats, airbags.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control, A/C system, refrigerant handling, heater core, cabin air filter.
Infotainment And Navigation:
COMAND system, audio components, navigation unit, telematics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, fluid flushes (coolant, brake, transmission, power steering), belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, fault code interpretation, troubleshooting common issues, sensor testing.
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, convertible top mechanism repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various systems, common drivability issues, electrical gremlins, ABC system faults.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical component specifications, diagnostic parameter ranges.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, minor repairs, major overhauls, and complex system diagnostics, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Type:
AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5G-TRONIC (722.6)
Drive Modes:
Comfort (C), Sport (S), Manual (M).
Features:
TouchShift paddle shifters, electronic gear selection.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.12 specification Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 liters (16.4 US pints) for a dry fill, varies with torque converter drain.
Crash Test Ratings:
Not formally rated by NHTSA/IIHS in the same way as mainstream vehicles, but built to stringent Mercedes-Benz safety standards.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), tire pressure monitoring.
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, side airbags, knee airbags, roll-over protection system (pop-up roll bars), seatbelt pretensioners, active head restraints.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated audio, navigation, and climate controls.
Audio Features:
AM/FM radio, CD player, optional Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Adaptive Cruise Control (Distronic - optional), Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering function, rain-sensing wipers, parking sensors (front and rear).
Connectivity Options:
TeleAid emergency calling system (subscription-based), optional Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones (via cradle).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (synthetic oil).
Transmission Service Interval:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 miles or as indicated by the 'service transmission' message on the instrument cluster.
Coolant Service Interval:
First change at 150,000 miles, then every 75,000 miles.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant (MB 325.0 or MB 326.0) - typically blue or blue-green.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0 specification)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent MB-approved hydraulic fluid.
Common Problems:
ABC suspension hydraulic leaks, ABC pump failure, ECU failures (especially related to ABC and engine management), catalytic converter failure, O2 sensor issues, oil cooler leaks, camshaft magnet failure, trunk wiring harness issues, convertible top hydraulic cylinder leaks.
Recommendations:
Regular inspection of ABC fluid levels and lines, diligent attention to electrical system diagnostics, prompt replacement of worn components.
Manufacturer:
Mercedes-Benz, a legacy of luxury, engineering, and performance dating back to 1886.
Model Line:
The R230 SL-Class represents the fifth generation of Mercedes-Benz's iconic SL roadster, known for its blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology. The SL55 AMG variant, introduced for the 2003 model year, brought significantly enhanced V8 performance to the lineup.
Production Years:
R230 SL-Class: 2002-2011. SL55 AMG: 2003-2008.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany.
