🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SLK-Class

Model Variant:

SLK350, SLK55 AMG

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

R171

Engine Code Slk350:

M272 E35

Engine Code Slk55Amg:

M113 E55

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium compact roadster

Competitive Analysis:

Positioned as a more refined and technologically advanced option compared to some competitors, the SLK offered a retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof), a hallmark feature that provided coupe-like security and refinement when raised. The AMG variant offered a significant performance upgrade.

Key Features:

Vario-Roof (retractable hardtop), advanced safety systems (ESP, airbags), premium interior materials, powerful engine options (especially the AMG), optional COMAND infotainment system, Agility Control suspension (on some models).

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Operation, Maintenance, Safety, Specifications, Troubleshooting, Basic Repair, Features, Controls, Climate Control, Audio System, Navigation, Wheels, Tires, Chassis, Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Electrical System, Lighting, Body, Interior, Convertible Roof System (Vario-Roof), Security, Roadside Assistance.

Page Count:

Approximately 350-450 (Estimated for typical Mercedes-Benz owner's manual of this era, exact page count can vary slightly with edition).

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Covers all user-accessible systems and features for safe and optimal operation of the 2005 SLK350 and SLK55 AMG models.

Procedures Included:

Operation of all controls, infotainment system, climate control, convertible roof, basic fluid level checks, tire pressure checks, fuse box access, understanding dashboard warning lights and messages, emergency procedures.

Technical Depth:

Focuses on 'how to use' and 'how to maintain' the vehicle for the end-user. Explains dashboard symbols, control functions, and basic maintenance checks. Beyond this, it directs the owner to authorized service centers for mechanical repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans, suitable for digital viewing and printing. Text is generally searchable if OCR processed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Manual Completeness:

This owner's manual provides comprehensive guidance for the owner on the safe and proper operation, maintenance, and features of the vehicle. It does not replace a professional repair manual.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Slk350:

3.5L V6 DOHC (M272 E35)

Performance Slk350:

Horsepower: 268 hp @ 6000 rpm, Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm

Primary Engine Slk55Amg:

5.4L V8 SOHC (M113 E55)

Performance Slk55Amg:

Horsepower: 355 hp @ 5750 rpm, Torque: 376 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum alloy (M272), Cast iron (M113)

Valve Train:

4 valves per cylinder, DOHC with variable valve timing (M272); 3 valves per cylinder, SOHC with 2 spark plugs per cylinder (M113)

Engine Code Slk350:

M272 DE35

Engine Code Slk55Amg:

M113 E55 ML

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC) for SLK350; AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7-speed automatic transmission for SLK55 AMG.

Optional:

Manual transmission was not widely offered or standard on these specific variants for the US market in 2005.

Features:

Sequential shift mode (Touchshift), adaptive shift programs.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Spec 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approximately 4081 mm (160.7 in)

Exterior Width:

Approximately 1765 mm (69.5 in)

Exterior Height:

Approximately 1303 mm (51.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2430 mm (95.7 in)

Curb Weight Slk350:

Approximately 1420 kg (3130 lbs)

Curb Weight Slk55Amg:

Approximately 1510 kg (3329 lbs)

Cargo Volume:

Approximately 309 liters (10.9 cu ft) with roof up, 171 liters (6.0 cu ft) with roof down.

Wheel Size Standard:

17-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size Standard:

Front: 225/45 R17, Rear: 245/40 R17

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

NHTSA and IIHS ratings are generally high for Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era, but specific ratings for the 2005 SLK-Class should be verified with official NHTSA/IIHS reports. Expect good frontal and side impact performance.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS).

Passive Features:

Front airbags, side airbags integrated into seats, rollover protection system (pop-up bars), seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones.

Convertible Roof Safety:

Automatic rollover bars deploy in case of detected rollover.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with CD player, AM/FM radio, optional navigation module, and optional Harman Kardon sound system.

Driver Assistance:

Cruise control, optional parking sensors (Parktronic).

Connectivity:

Optional Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid system, Bluetooth connectivity (if equipped with the appropriate module).

Lighting:

Optional Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, automatic headlight control.

Convertible Roof Technology:

Electro-hydraulic Vario-Roof system with push-button operation, integrated with remote key fob for opening/closing.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer and tachometer, LCD display for trip computer, service indicator, and warning messages. Includes 'Service A'/'Service B' indicator.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals General:

Refer to the 'Service A' and 'Service B' schedule as indicated by the vehicle's Service Minder system. Typically, this involves annual service or every 10,000 miles (16,000 km), whichever comes first.

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-40 or 0W-30 synthetic engine oil meeting MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 specification.

Fluid Capacities Engine Oil Slk350:

Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.

Fluid Capacities Engine Oil Slk55Amg:

Approximately 8.5 liters (9.0 US quarts) with filter change.

Fluid Specifications Coolant:

Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or 325.5), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0)

Known Issues:

Variable valve timing (VVT) actuator issues on M272 engines (check for rough idle, CEL), potential for water pump leaks, ABC suspension issues on AMG models (if equipped, less common on R171 SLK compared to larger models), Vario-Roof hydraulic system leaks or actuator problems, ignition coil failures, MAF sensor issues.

Spark Plugs Slk350:

Typically iridium spark plugs, replacement interval around 60,000-100,000 miles.

Spark Plugs Slk55Amg:

Dual iridium spark plugs (2 per cylinder), replacement interval around 60,000-100,000 miles.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 20,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Recommended annually or every 10,000-15,000 miles.

Tire Pressure Specifications:

Front: 32 psi, Rear: 36 psi (Typical values for standard tires, always verify on vehicle sticker or manual)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and innovation in automotive design and safety since its inception.

Model Evolution:

The R171 SLK-Class, introduced for the 2005 model year, succeeded the R170 generation. It featured a more aggressive styling, a fully retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof), and updated powertrains and technology. The SLK55 AMG variant marked the first time a V8 engine was fitted to a small Mercedes roadster.

Production:

The R171 SLK-Class was produced from 2004 to 2010. The 2005 model year was the launch year for this generation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2005 model year might vary, the SLK-Class generally received positive reviews for its design, performance (especially the AMG variant), and innovative Vario-Roof technology from automotive publications.

Ratings:

Consumer satisfaction and reliability ratings from organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports for this era of Mercedes-Benz can be mixed, with some areas of strength and potential areas for concern (as noted in known issues).

Certifications:

Compliant with all relevant US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for the model year.