Positioning:
The 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL600 represented the pinnacle of luxury grand touring convertibles, combining advanced technology with a powerful V12 engine and sophisticated styling. This manual caters to owners and technicians seeking the most in-depth information for maintaining and repairing this high-performance vehicle.
Competitors:
Competed with luxury convertibles such as the BMW 6 Series, Bentley Continental GTC, and Aston Martin DB9. The SL600's key differentiator was its twin-turbocharged V12 engine and advanced Active Body Control suspension.
Highlight:
Officially licensed software ensures accuracy and completeness, mirroring dealer-level documentation. Comprehensive coverage of the complex V12 powertrain and ABC suspension systems.
Engine:
5.5L V12 Bi-Turbo (M275.983), including diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and specifications.
Transmission:
5G-TRONIC 5-Speed Automatic (722.6), including repair, adjustment, and electronic control module (ETC) diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, differential, driveshafts, and associated components.
Suspension:
Active Body Control (ABC) system, including hydraulic components, pressure regulation, sensor diagnostics, and calibration.
Brakes:
ABS, ESP, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control - potentially early adoption or specific variants), brake system bleeding, component replacement, and diagnostic procedures.
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system, steering column, and associated components.
Electrical System:
Complete 12V DC system, battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, and component testing.
Body Electrical:
Lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, climate control, COMAND infotainment, telematics, and security systems.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control system, AC system service, refrigerant handling, and component diagnostics.
Bodywork:
Convertible hardtop operation and service, exterior body panels, interior trim, and accident repair information.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, and general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), and component testing procedures.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, and electrical system repairs.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine control, transmission control, ABC system, ABS/ESP, and other electronic modules using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis) concepts.
Installation:
Procedures for installing new components, replacement parts, and accessories.
Depth:
Dealer-level diagnostic and repair capabilities, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed electrical schematics and system descriptions.
NHTSA Front Crash:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific model year in the same manner as later vehicles, but built to stringent Mercedes-Benz safety standards.
IIHS Ratings:
Not available for this specific model year.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control System (ASR), Active Body Control (ABC).
Passive Safety:
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, head/thorax airbags, roll-over protection system (pop-up bars), seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, and reinforced A-pillars.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated CD player, navigation, and optional voice control.
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system with multiple speakers.
Driver Assistance Features:
Distronic (adaptive cruise control - optional), Bi-Xenon headlights with adaptive lighting, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Connectivity Options:
Optional voice control, potentially Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling (depending on specific package).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, or as indicated by the vehicle's flexible service system (ASSYST).
Major Service:
Major service items typically occur at 30,000, 60,000, and 100,000-mile intervals, including spark plug replacement, fluid flushes, and comprehensive inspections of critical systems.
Engine Oil:
MB 229.5 Specification, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic. Oil capacity approximately 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.12 Specification (or equivalent like Pentosin ATF1), for the 5G-TRONIC transmission. Fluid capacity approximately 7.5-8 liters for a dry fill/torque converter drain.
Coolant:
MB 325.0 Specification (Mercedes-Benz approved coolant concentrate mixed 50/50 with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (or MB 331.0 Specification) Hydraulic Brake Fluid. Change interval typically every 2 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 343.0 Specification (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Abc System Fluid:
MB 343.0 Specification (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent). This fluid is critical and requires specific handling and replacement procedures.
Common Problems:
ABC suspension leaks (struts, accumulators), ignition coil failures (common on V12s), SBC system faults (especially on early models), convertible top hydraulic leaks, catalytic converter issues, and mass airflow sensor failures.
V12 Specific Issues:
Twin-turbo V12 engines can be sensitive to maintenance. Intercooler system can develop leaks. Spark plug replacement is labor-intensive due to twin spark plugs per cylinder and twin ignition coils.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing heritage in producing luxury grand tourers and sports cars, dating back to the iconic 300 SL 'Gullwing'. The SL lineage is synonymous with performance, comfort, and technological innovation.
Sl Series Evolution:
The R230 generation of the SL-Class, introduced in 2001, represented a significant evolution from the R129. It featured an advanced retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof) and the groundbreaking Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system, offering a blend of sports car handling and luxury car ride comfort. The SL600 was the flagship model, powered by the potent V12 engine.
Production Years:
R230 generation: 2001-2011. The 2005 SL600 is part of the initial pre-facelift R230 models.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
