Market Position:
The Mercedes-Benz SLK230 represented a compact, stylish, and performance-oriented two-seater roadster, competing in the premium sports car segment against rivals like the BMW Z3/Z4, Porsche Boxster, and Audi TT Roadster. It offered a balance of luxury, everyday usability, and spirited driving dynamics.
Competitive Analysis:
The SLK230, particularly the R170 generation, was known for its innovative 'Vari-Roof' retractable hardtop, offering coupe-like security and convertible freedom. The supercharged engine provided good torque, making it a capable cruiser and a fun car for winding roads. Its luxury interior and brand prestige were significant selling points.
Key Features:
Vari-Roof retractable hardtop, supercharged 2.3L inline-4 engine, rear-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension, premium interior appointments, Mercedes-Benz build quality and safety.
Coverage Areas:
Complete Service and Repair
Page Count:
Likely extensive, often 1000+ pages for comprehensive Mercedes-Benz manuals. Specific count unavailable without direct access to the software's internal data.
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Licensing:
Officially Licensed
Format:
Software (Digital, likely executable or PDF within an application)
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical and electrical, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, transmission (manual and automatic), driveline, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, ESP), climate control (HVAC), body electrical, lighting, infotainment, interior trim, convertible top mechanism, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine servicing, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation, repair procedures, electrical circuit diagrams, wiring harnesses, torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, special tool requirements, exploded views, component specifications.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic oil changes and fluid checks to in-depth engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Designed for both professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostics Included:
OBD-II diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, sensor data analysis, live data streams, diagnostic tool usage (e.g., STAR Diagnosis/XENTRY system equivalent).
File Format:
Proprietary software format or potentially a protected PDF. Searchable text and hyperlinked sections are common features.
Print Quality:
N/A (Digital Format). If printable, expected to be high resolution for clarity.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format). User interface and navigation are software-based.
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format).
Completeness:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects of maintenance, diagnostics, and repair as per official Mercedes-Benz service documentation standards.
Primary Engine:
M111.973: 2.3L (2295 cc) DOHC 16-valve Supercharged Inline-4
Horsepower:
192 hp @ 5300 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
201 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI), Bosch Motronic ECU.
Bore X Stroke:
90.9 mm x 88.4 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (approx.)
Supercharger:
Lysholm-type twin-screw supercharger
Engine Management:
ME 2.8 (or similar variant) ECU controlling ignition, fuel injection, and supercharger bypass valve.
Engine Mounting:
Longitudinal, front-mounted
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (G50/20 variant or similar)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic Transmission with TouchShift (NAG3 variant or similar)
Features:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD). Automatic transmission offers manual shifting mode (TouchShift).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MB-Approval 235.10 or 235.4 (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB-Approval 236.10 or 236.12 (e.g., ATF 3403-M 115 or ATF 4134)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Likely 4-star (based on typical Mercedes-Benz performance for the era, specific data for 2004 SLK230 may vary).
IIHS Small Overlap Frontal Rating:
Not applicable for this model year as the test was not yet established.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (standard or optional), seatbelt pretensioners, rollover protection system (pop-up roll bars).
Other Safety Features:
Integrated roll-over protection, optional Xenon headlamps with auto-leveling.
Infotainment System:
Mercedes-Benz Audio 10/20/30 CD radios, optional navigation system (APS 30 or COMAND 2.0).
Speaker System:
Standard 4 or 6 speaker system, optional Bose premium sound system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control (standard), rain-sensing wipers (optional), automatic climate control.
Connectivity Features:
Optional hands-free telephone system (often requires an aftermarket adapter or cradle).
Other Technology Features:
Keyless entry, power windows and locks, heated power mirrors, automatic climate control, electrically heated seats, automatic dimming rearview mirror.
Service A Interval:
Approximately 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Indicated by 'Service A' on the instrument cluster.
Service B Interval:
Approximately 20,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. Indicated by 'Service B' on the instrument cluster. Includes more comprehensive checks than Service A.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped spark plugs, refer to manual for specific type.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40, API SM or higher, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4, MB-Approval 229.3 or 229.5.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, MB-Approval 325.0 (e.g., Pentofrost SF or equivalent) - typically a blue coolant.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 PLUS (MB-Approval 331.0 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB-Approval 343.0 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid)
Known Issues:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, idle control valve problems, spark plug and ignition coil failures, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, vacuum leaks, OVP relay failure (older models but can persist), EASIElectric Actuator System for convertible top issues, premature wear of suspension bushings, differential seal leaks.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter HU 830/1, Bosch 3330
Air Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter C 26 167/1
Cabin Air Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter CU 26 010
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, innovation, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile in 1886. This heritage is reflected in the quality and design of all its vehicles, including the SLK line.
Model Evolution:
The R170 SLK generation was introduced in 1996. The SLK230 Kompressor was a core model throughout its lifecycle. Key updates included revised styling, engine enhancements, and improved features over its production run. The 2004 model year represents a late-stage evolution of the R170 platform before the introduction of the R171 generation.
Production Years:
1996-2004 (for the R170 generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
