Positioning:
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK230 (R170) was positioned as a compact, premium two-seater roadster, competing with vehicles like the BMW Z3 and Porsche Boxster. It offered a blend of sporty driving dynamics with Mercedes-Benz luxury and innovative features.
Comparison:
Key advantages over competitors included its retractable hardtop (vario-roof), which offered coupe-like security and quietness when closed, and its supercharged engine providing strong low-end torque. Interior quality and fit-and-finish were typically Mercedes-Benz benchmark.
Highlight:
The innovative vario-roof (retractable hardtop), supercharged 2.3L engine, and compact, agile chassis were defining features.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (5G-TRONIC) service, repair, and diagnostics
Chassis Systems:
Brakes (ABS, ESP), steering, suspension, chassis electrical, body, frame
Body And Interior:
Body panels, interior trim, seats, convertible top system, climate control
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrument cluster, comfort features, power accessories, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Type:
Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (CD-ROM or Digital Download)
Engine:
Complete overhaul procedures for the M111 E23 ML (2.3L Supercharged Inline-4) engine
Transmission:
Detailed service and repair for the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, including torque converter and valve body service
Brakes:
Component identification, testing, repair, and bleeding procedures for the ABS and ESP systems
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column service
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, component locations, diagnostic procedures for control modules
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic system service, actuator replacement, control module diagnosis for the vario-roof
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement
Repair:
Engine component overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension strut replacement, electrical component repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts for common symptoms, OBD-II diagnostic code explanations and clearing procedures, sensor testing
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and wiring schematics
Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2295 cc)
Aspiration:
Supercharged (Lysholm-type twin-screw supercharger)
Horsepower:
192 hp @ 5300 rpm
Torque:
201 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 2.8)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (with filter change)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 (MB 229.5 specification)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (5G-TRONIC)
Type:
5-speed Manual (less common)
Automatic Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.10, MB 236.12, or MB 236.14 approved fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF 134)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (dry fill)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated by NHTSA for this model year; general safety standards of the era apply.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not specifically rated by IIHS for this model year; general safety standards of the era apply.
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Electronic Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, optional side-impact airbags
Rollover Protection:
Integrated roll-over bar system
Audio System:
Original Mercedes-Benz audio system with CD or cassette player and speaker configurations.
Navigation:
Optional Becker navigation system available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Telematics:
Optional tele Aid emergency calling system on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium spark plugs (if applicable), or consult manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (MB 331.0 specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (MB 343.0 specification)
Common Problems:
Vario-roof hydraulic leaks, mass airflow sensor (MAF) failure, ignition coil failure, vacuum hose leaks, window regulator issues.
Troubleshooting Tips:
Regularly inspect hydraulic lines for the vario-roof. Clean MAF sensor if experiencing rough idle or power loss. Check for vacuum leaks when diagnosing engine performance issues.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive technology.
Slk Introduction:
The SLK-Class (R170) was introduced in 1996 as Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact roadster segment, known for its innovative vario-roof.
1999 Updates:
The 1999 model year saw minor refinements and option package changes, carrying over the core features of the original R170 platform.
Production Period:
1996-2004 (R170 platform)
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
