Vehicle Class:
Compact Luxury Sports Roadster
Key Competitors 2012:
BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, Porsche Boxster
Vehicle Selling Points:
Retractable hardtop (VARIO-ROOF), powerful engines, Mercedes-Benz luxury and build quality, sporty handling
Diy Repair Advantage:
Enables significant cost savings on maintenance and repairs by empowering owners to perform tasks themselves.
Manual Coverage Scope:
Complete Workshop Service and Repair
Model Variants Covered:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types within the R172 generation
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (specific count not provided, but implies full workshop manual coverage)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Primary Purpose:
Facilitate DIY maintenance and repair, enabling cost savings for owners.
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, engine management
Transmission Systems:
Automatic and manual transmission (if applicable), clutch, drive shafts, differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system
Brake Systems:
Brake system components, hydraulic system, ABS, ESP, brake service and repair
Electrical Systems:
12V battery system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, CAN bus systems
Body Chassis:
Chassis structure, body panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism, interior trim
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, ventilation
Infotainment Navigation:
Audio systems, navigation system, telematics
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic routines for all major systems
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment across all vehicle systems
Engine Repair:
Engine overhauls, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod installation, camshaft timing
Transmission Repair:
Transmission fluid service, seal replacement, component repair and rebuilding
Electrical Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, battery, sensors, control modules, wiring harness repair
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, convertible top mechanism service and adjustment
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Utilizes a step-by-step diagnostic approach, often referencing specific fault codes and symptoms.
Technical Depth Level:
Comprehensive (covers basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full rebuilds)
Print Readability:
High quality, printable, allows for selective chapter or full document printing
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Required Software:
Adobe Reader (free download)
Device Compatibility:
All PC & MAC Computers, tablets, mobile phones
Engine Options 2012:
SLK200 (1.8L Turbo I4), SLK250 (1.8L Turbo I4), SLK350 (3.5L V6)
Slk200 Power:
181 hp @ 5250 rpm
Slk200 Torque:
200 lb-ft @ 1800-4300 rpm
Slk350 Power:
302 hp @ 6500 rpm
Slk350 Torque:
273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (BlueDIRECT)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Turbocharged (SLK200, SLK250) and V6 Naturally Aspirated (SLK350)
ECU Type:
ME (Motor Elektronik) series control units
Slk200 Transmission Standard:
6-speed Manual
Slk350 Transmission Standard:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC PLUS)
Slk200 Transmission Optional:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC PLUS)
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with adaptive shifting programs
NHTSA Safety Rating:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific model year in all categories, but expected high safety due to Mercedes-Benz standards.
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS)
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags, head/thorax airbags, rollover protection system, seatbelt pretensioners
Rollover Protection:
Integrated rollover protection system behind the headrests for enhanced occupant safety.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) with a central screen, radio, CD/DVD player, Bluetooth, and optional navigation system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional features like ATTENTION ASSIST, DISTRONIC PLUS, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free communication and audio streaming, USB interface.
Comfort Technology:
AIRSCARF (neck-level heating), THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control, ambient lighting.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type)
Brake Fluid Service:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 0W-30, 5W-30 synthetic oils, depending on engine variant)
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or MB 326.0)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC PLUS)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus
Common R172 Issues:
Potential issues include convertible top mechanism glitches, minor electronic module faults, and in some earlier models, oil consumption (though significantly improved over previous generations).
Convertible Top Service:
Detailed procedures for hydraulic system checks, fluid levels, seals, and micro-switch diagnostics of the VARIO-ROOF.
