Vehicle Segment:
Compact luxury roadster/sports car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking performance, luxury, and innovative design in a two-seater convertible
Key Competitors:
BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster, Audi TT Roadster, Jaguar XK8 Convertible
Unique Selling Proposition:
Variable compression ratio (optional on some models), retractable hardtop (Vario-roof), Mercedes-Benz engineering and build quality.
Body Style:
Two-door convertible with retractable hardtop (Vario-roof system)
Powertrain Options:
Inline-4 and V6 engines, RWD
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair for various R170 engine variants (e.g., M111, M112, M113)
Engine Management:
Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, fuel injection
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission servicing, repair, clutch replacement, gear selection mechanisms
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission servicing, repair, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, hydraulic system
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers), hydraulic system, ABS, ESP components
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, chassis lubrication, door mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant handling, component repair
Infotainment And Comfort:
Radio, navigation, climate control panel, power windows, mirrors, seats
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules and procedures for all covered model years
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic steps for common and uncommon issues
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems
Overhaul Procedures:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing individual parts such as sensors, actuators, filters, etc.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all major systems
Depth Level:
Expert-level; suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostics Support:
Detailed diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom analysis, and repair strategies
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners across all systems
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for critical component clearances and manufacturing tolerances
Engine Codes Common:
M111 (2.0L, 2.3L Supercharged), M112 (3.2L V6), M113 (4.3L V8 - AMG SLK32)
Displacement Variations:
2.0L, 2.3L, 3.2L, 3.2L Supercharged (AMG)
Horsepower Range:
134 hp (SLK 200) to 354 hp (SLK 32 AMG)
Torque Range:
140 lb-ft (SLK 200) to 332 lb-ft (SLK 32 AMG)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not rated (vehicle predates comprehensive current NHTSA ratings)
IIHS Side Impact:
Not rated (vehicle predates comprehensive current IIHS ratings)
Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) on most models
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, optional side airbags
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bars integrated behind headrests
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months (refer to specific model year and service type for exact intervals)
Major Service A B:
Based on Flexible Service System (FSS), indicated by the instrument cluster; commonly involves inspection and replacement of filters, spark plugs, etc. every 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 5W-40 or 0W-40 - check manual for specific viscosity and spec for engine)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1 or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-48 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (MB Spec 331.0)
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Can become dirty or fail, leading to poor engine performance and CEL.
V Rocco Sensor Issues:
Crankshaft position sensor (CPS) and camshaft position sensors can fail, causing starting problems or stalling.
Evap Purge Valve:
Can fail, causing rough idle or EVAP system codes.
Vario Roof System:
Hydraulic leaks, pump failures, sensor issues, or binding mechanisms are common issues requiring specialized diagnosis.
Window Regulators:
Can fail, causing windows to drop or not operate.
Subframe Mounts:
Can wear out, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Manufacturer Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and safety, established over a century of automotive innovation.
R170 Introduction:
Introduced in 1996 as a direct competitor to the BMW Z3, the R170 was Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact roadster segment.
Facelift Minor Updates:
Facelifted in 2000 with revised styling, improved interior, and updated engine options (including the V6).
Amg Variant:
The AMG SLK32 was introduced in 2001, featuring a supercharged 3.2L V6 engine.
Production Period:
1996-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
