Market Segment:
Luxury Compact Sports Roadster
Key Competitors:
BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, Porsche Boxster.
Headline Features:
Retractable hardtop (vario-roof), powerful engine options, Mercedes-Benz build quality, sport-tuned suspension, luxurious interior.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a premium, stylish, and engaging driving experience with the versatility of a convertible and a coupe.
Powertrain Systems:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, starter system, charging system.
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (automatic), drive axles, differential.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS, ESP), wheels and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, lighting (interior and exterior), instrumentation, fuses and relays, warning indicators, basic wiring principles.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, convertible hardtop operation (vario-roof), seats, climate control, interior trim, locks and security.
Safety Features:
Airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), tire pressure monitoring.
Infotainment And Convenience:
Audio system, navigation system (if equipped), telematics, climate control operation, power windows and seats.
Regular Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade inspection/replacement, bulb replacement procedures.
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting, changing a flat tire, using the spare tire/tire mobility kit, basic troubleshooting for warning lights.
Vehicle Operation:
Starting and driving the vehicle, gear selection, use of cruise control, operating the vario-roof, parking brake operation.
Dashboard And Controls:
Explanation of all dashboard indicators, warning lights, switches, and their functions.
Depth Of Coverage:
Detailed owner-level information, focusing on safe operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or full repair instructions typically found in a Service Manual.
Slk280 Standard Transmission:
6-speed Manual
Slk350 Standard Transmission:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Slk55 Amg Standard Transmission:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC) with AMG SPEEDSHIFT
Slk280 Optional Transmission:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Automatic Transmission Features:
TouchShift paddle shifters for manual gear selection.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for 2008 SLK-Class)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (for 2008 SLK-Class)
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags, knee airbags, rollover protection system (integrated into A-pillars and rear roll bar).
Audio System:
Optional COMAND APS multimedia system with integrated navigation, CD/DVD player, radio, and optional Harman Kardon surround sound.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional: Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering function, Rain-sensing wipers, Cruise Control.
Connectivity Options:
Optional: Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions (refer to Assyst Plus system for specific intervals).
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to Assyst Plus system for Service A, Service B, and subsequent service requirements (typically around 20,000-30,000 mile intervals, but variable).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51 (e.g., SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30).
Coolant Specification:
MB-Approval 325.0 or 326.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, silicate-free, colored blue/green).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB-Approval 236.10 or 236.12 (for 7G-TRONIC).
Common Slk R171 Issues:
Variorooftop hydraulic leaks/failures, Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor issues (especially on M272 engines), ignition coil failures, SBC brake system (earlier models, less prevalent in 2008), aging O-rings and seals.
Typical Tire Sizes:
Front: 225/45R17, Rear: 245/40R17 (standard for SLK280/350); Front: 225/40R18, Rear: 255/35R18 (optional/AMG).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz is renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation in the automotive industry.
Slk Class Heritage:
The R171 generation of the SLK-Class, introduced for the 2005 model year, evolved from the R170. It featured a more aggressive design, improved aerodynamics, and the innovative vario-roof system.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
Model Production Years:
2004-2011 (R171 generation)
