Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT) Convertible
Competitors:
BMW 8 Series Convertible, Jaguar XK8 Convertible, Lexus SC 430
Features:
V12 Engine, Retractable Hardtop (for later R129 models, though 2000 SL600 likely still had soft top), Advanced Hydropneumatic Suspension, Premium Interior, High Performance.
Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 3000+ pages (typical for comprehensive Mercedes-Benz service manuals)
Type:
Official Service Manual / Workshop Manual (Digital)
Format:
Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)
Powertrain:
Engine (M120 V12), Transmission (5-Speed Automatic 5G-Tronic), Differential, Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Hydropneumatic), Steering, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Ignition System, Fuel Injection, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Audio System, Climate Control, Convertible Top System, SRS (Airbag) System
Body:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Convertible Top Mechanism
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation, Diagnostic Procedures (OBD-II, STAR Diagnosis)
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Major Component Overhauls, Electrical System Repairs, Bodywork Repairs
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Tolerances, Wiring Diagrams, Vacuum Diagrams, Component Data
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electronic diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V12
Displacement:
5987 cc (6.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 80.2 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5000 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
340 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M2.8.3 Engine Management System with Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 12.0 Liters (consult manual for exact capacity)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 Liters (consult manual for exact capacity and type)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-Tronic')
Gear Ratios:
Refer to Manual (Specific ratios for 5G-Tronic vary)
Transmission Features:
Electronic Control, Lock-up Torque Converter, Comfort/Sport Modes
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Approval 236.10 (e.g., ATF 4G-TRONIC)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 Liters (dry fill, consult manual)
NHTSA Ratings:
Not extensively tested by NHTSA under modern protocols, but known for robust safety structure.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Side Impact Airbags (in seats), Roll-over Protection System (Automatic pop-up roll bars)
Seatbelts:
Three-point Inertial Reel Seatbelts with Belt Tensioners and Force Limiters
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system with cassette and CD player, radio tuner.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control (THERMOTRONIC).
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control with speed limiter function.
Lighting:
Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with automatic leveling, fog lamps.
Navigation:
Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system was available.
Seats:
Power adjustable front seats with memory, lumbar support, seat heating, and optional seat ventilation.
Convertible Top:
Fully automatic hydraulic soft top with power-operated rear quarter windows and integrated wind deflector.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months (consult manual for exact specification and oil type).
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to manual for A and B service schedules, which include inspections and replacements of various components (e.g., spark plugs, air filters) at higher mileage intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic (MB Approval 229.5 is recommended).
Coolant Type:
MB Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or similar)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Approval 331.0)
Common Wear Items:
Ignition coils, fuel injectors, mass airflow sensors, suspension hydraulic lines/accumulators, convertible top hydraulic cylinders and seals, window regulators, catalytic converters.
V12 Specific:
Can be complex to service; requires specialized tools and knowledge for tasks like spark plug replacement or ignition system diagnostics.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter HU 719/4 X or equivalent OEM MB part.
Air Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter C35164/1 or equivalent OEM MB part.
Heritage Points:
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its engineering excellence, luxury, and long history in automotive innovation, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
R129 Generation:
The R129 SL-Class was produced from 1989 to 2001, representing the third generation of the SL-Class. The SL600 was the flagship model of this generation.
2000 Model Updates:
The 2000 model year continued the evolution of the R129 with updated electronics, safety features, and refinements. The M120 V12 engine was a key differentiator.
Production Period:
1989-2001 (R129 generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
