🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL550

Year:

2011

Chassis Code:

R230

Generation Designation:

Fourth Generation (Facelift 2)

Vin Code:

WDD171 (Typically for R230 SL-Class)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer Convertible

Target Audience:

Discerning buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, comfort, and open-air driving experience.

Key Competitors:

BMW 6 Series Convertible, Porsche 911 Convertible, Jaguar XK Convertible, Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster.

Body Style:

Two-door convertible with a retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof).

Powertrain Emphasis:

Comfortable yet potent V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, and luxurious interior appointments.

Technology Integration:

Integration of advanced infotainment and climate control systems for driver and passenger comfort.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Vehicle operation, maintenance, and safety features for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL550.

Secondary Coverage:

Instrument cluster, climate control, infotainment, security, seating, driving assistance, cleaning, engine compartment, fuel, battery, and basic maintenance specifications.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for Mercedes-Benz owner's manuals of this era).

Type:

Factory Owner's Manual (Digital PDF)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine compartment layout, fluid types and capacities, fuel system, battery maintenance, air filter replacement.

Chassis:

Brakes, suspension, steering (general operation and fluid checks).

Electrical:

Instrument cluster functions, lighting operation, driver controls, locks and security systems, basic electronic component identification.

Comfort And Convenience:

Climate controls, seating adjustments, power-operated features (roof, windows, mirrors).

Safety Systems:

Airbag systems, seat belt operation and adjustment, child restraint systems (ISOFIX), electronic stability program (ESP) functionality.

Infotainment And Navigation:

Basic operation of entertainment systems, climate controls, and potentially navigation system interaction (if equipped).

Operation:

Detailed instructions on operating vehicle functions, including the retractable hardtop, climate control, infotainment, and power accessories.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance checks, fluid level monitoring and replenishment, recommended service intervals, basic cleaning procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Identification of warning lights and indicators, basic troubleshooting steps for common issues (e.g., battery drain, system warnings).

Safety Procedures:

Proper use of safety restraints, child seat installation, emergency procedures, reporting safety defects (US-specific).

Depth:

Owner-level technical information covering operation, basic checks, and recommended maintenance. Does not include in-depth diagnostic or repair procedures typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Requires a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader). Compatible with most devices (desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones).

Resolution:

High-resolution scans of original factory manual pages.

Binding:

N/A (Digital File)

Paper:

N/A (Digital File)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M273.968

Configuration:

4.7L (4663 cc) V8

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank, 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total).

Horsepower:

382 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

391 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Induction:

Naturally Aspirated

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Engine Oil Type:

Mobil 1 Synthetic (or equivalent meeting MB-Approval 229.5)

Engine Oil Capacity:

8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters)

Air Filter Part Numbers:

Typically two filters, e.g., A2720900182 or equivalent.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-speed automatic with manual mode (7G-TRONIC)

Gear Ratios:

Refer to specific model documentation; ratios vary for optimal performance and economy.

Driving Modes:

Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes affecting shift points and throttle response.

Manual Operation:

Shift paddles on the steering wheel or gear selector lever for manual gear selection.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

171.2 inches (4348 mm)

Width:

71.7 inches (1821 mm)

Height:

52.4 inches (1331 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.8 inches (2585 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 10.2 cu ft (with roof up) / 4.7 cu ft (with roof down)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4200-4400 lbs (1905-2000 kg), depending on options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA and IIHS ratings for this generation typically indicated good overall safety performance, though specific 2011 ratings may vary by test and configuration. The R230 chassis generally performed well in its class.

Electronic Stability Program:

Adaptive ESP (Electronic Stability Program) with Traction Control.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Standard.

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, and often head-thorax airbags integrated into the seatbacks. Roll-over protection system (pop-up roll bars) for enhanced safety with the top down.

Seat Belts:

Pretensioners and force limiters for front occupants.

Child Restraint:

ISOFIX/LATCH system compatibility for child seat mounting (typically in passenger seat or not applicable for dedicated rear seats).

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

COMMAND infotainment system (e.g., NTG 3.5 or similar).

Features:

Radio, CD/DVD player, navigation (optional), Bluetooth connectivity, aux input.

Adaptive Cruise Control:

DISTRONIC PLUS (optional feature, providing adaptive cruise control and proximity assistance).

Parking Assistance:

PARKTRONIC parking sensors (front and rear).

Lighting Technology:

Bi-xenon headlamps with active curve illumination and LED daytime running lights.

Bluetooth:

Standard for hands-free calling and audio streaming (functionality may depend on phone compatibility).

Seats:

Multi-contour power-adjustable front seats with memory, heating, and ventilation (optional).

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control (THERMOTRONIC).

Roof Operation:

Electrically operated retractable hardtop with one-touch operation and remote open/close functionality via key fob.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, or as indicated by the flexible service system (ASSYST PLUS).

Major Service Intervals:

Major services (e.g., spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, transmission service) are typically recommended around 40,000-60,000 mile intervals, or as prompted by the vehicle's service indicator.

Coolant Type:

MB-Approval 325.0 or 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, Silicate-free, Blue/Green).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (or MB-Approval 331.0).

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB-Approval 236.14 (e.g., Shell ATF 134).

Common R230 Issues:

Potential issues can include ABC (Active Body Control) suspension leaks or pump failures, Vario-Roof hydraulic system malfunctions, alternator failures, and occasional ignition coil or sensor issues. Maintenance of the retractable roof mechanism is crucial.

2011 Specific Considerations:

As a later model in the R230 lifecycle, many early generation issues were addressed. However, regular inspection of the Vario-Roof seals and hydraulics, and adherence to fluid change intervals for ABC suspension and transmission remain important.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long and illustrious history in producing sophisticated and luxurious sports convertibles, dating back to models like the 300 SL 'Gullwing' and the R107 and R129 SL-Class generations.

R230 Sl Class:

The R230 generation, introduced in 2002, represented a significant technological leap with its aluminum body structure and Vario-Roof retractable hardtop. The 2011 model is part of the final facelift of this generation, incorporating updated styling, engines, and technology.

Production Years For R230:

2002-2011

Assembly Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Sl Class Accolades:

While specific awards for the 2011 SL550 model year might be diverse, the SL-Class generally received accolades for its blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology throughout its lifespan.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for this era of SL-Class often highlighted its luxury and performance but could also note potential reliability concerns, particularly with complex systems like ABC suspension. (Specific ratings vary by year and testing methodology).