Segment:
Sports Car / Personal Luxury Coupe/Roadster
Platform Basis:
Based on the Mercedes-Benz R170 SLK platform, offering a premium, rear-wheel-drive experience.
Competitors 2006:
Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac GTO, Nissan 350Z, Mazda RX-8, BMW Z4.
Design Inspiration:
Distinctive styling with a long hood, short deck, and aggressive stance, designed by DaimlerChrysler's European design studio.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, performance-oriented coupe or convertible with German engineering DNA, at a more accessible price point than comparable European sports cars.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (Getrag 2D400), Automatic Transmission (Mercedes-Benz 5G-TRONIC 540N), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles, transfer case (if applicable).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Steering Suspension:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, front and rear suspension components (springs, shock absorbers, control arms, stabilizers), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, relay locations, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, climate control electronics.
Body Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seat systems, convertible top mechanism (for Roadster), frame/chassis repair.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, refrigerant, components (compressor, condenser, evaporator), diagnostic procedures, climate control module.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control system (EVAP).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, fault code interpretation, electrical circuit testing, component testing.
Component Replacement Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for removing, installing, and rebuilding major components such as engine, transmission, suspension parts, brake components, electrical modules.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, high-resolution wiring schematics for all electrical systems, including power distribution, ground points, and component interconnections.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and preventing component damage.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced engine rebuilds and electrical diagnostics.
Illustrations Quality:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos to guide repairs, with enlarged insets for close examination of parts.
Instruction Format:
Numbered instructions for step-by-step guidance, with notes, cautions, and warnings to highlight critical information.
Engine Code And Type:
EGG (3.2L V6 SOHC Supercharged)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5700 rpm (NA), 320 hp @ 6000 rpm (SRT6)
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3000-4700 rpm (NA), 310 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (SRT6)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) with Supercharger on SRT6 models.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change (check specific owner's manual for exact capacity).
Oil Specification:
Chrysler MS-10835 (equivalent to MB 229.5 or 229.51 for supercharged models, consult manual for precise spec).
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
Likely 4-star for driver and passenger (based on similar era Mercedes platforms, check specific reports).
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front Test:
Good (based on similar era Mercedes platforms, check specific reports).
Stability Control:
Standard ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on most models.
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Automatic rollover protection bars for Roadster models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic transmission fluid flush/change recommended every 40,000 to 60,000 miles (64,000 to 96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. Manual transmission fluid inspection at similar intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (iridium recommended).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid (check manual for exact specification).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type (often a Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent for Mercedes-based steering systems).
Common Complaints:
Potential for HVAC blower motor failures, coolant leaks from specific hoses or the supercharger bypass valve, and occasional electrical gremlins. Suspension and brake wear are typical for a performance vehicle.