Vehicle Segment:
Compact Luxury Sports Roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners seeking to maintain or repair their vehicles, independent repair shops
Key Competitors:
BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster (first generation), Audi TT (first generation)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Vario-roof (retractable hardtop) system, Mercedes-Benz engineering and build quality
Manual Value:
Provides essential technical data for maintaining and repairing a complex luxury vehicle, empowering owners and technicians.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, engine management (ECU/DME), emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch, driveline, differential
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, power steering, wheel alignment
Braking Systems:
Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, lines), ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, multiplexing systems, interior electronics
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, glass, convertible roof mechanism (Vario-roof), interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, climate control module
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module, anti-theft systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes
Repair:
Component replacement, engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension repairs, brake system repairs, electrical diagnostics and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for various systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, clearances, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with accompanying diagrams and illustrations
Engine Options:
2.0L Inline-4 (M111 E20), 2.3L Supercharged Inline-4 (M111 E23 ML), 3.2L V6 (M112 E32), 3.2L Supercharged V6 (M112 E32 ML - AMG)
Engine Code Slk200:
M111.940
Engine Code Slk230Kompressor:
M111.973
Engine Code Slk320:
M112.946
Engine Code Slk32Amg:
M112.960 (AMG)
Slk230Kompressor Hp:
193 hp @ 5500 rpm
Slk230Kompressor Torque:
200 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
Slk320 Hp:
215 hp @ 5700 rpm
Slk320 Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm
Slk32Amg Hp:
354 hp @ 6100 rpm
Slk32Amg Torque:
332 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Supercharger Type:
Roots-type belt-driven supercharger (Kompressor models)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (early models), 6-speed Manual (later models on some variants)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic (722.6), 5-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT-5G-TRONIC Automatic (SLK32 AMG)
Automatic Transmission Control:
TouchShift manual shifting mode
Driveline:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Length:
Approx. 157.5 inches (4000 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 50.5 inches (1282 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 87.2 inches (2215 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2900-3300 lbs (1315-1497 kg), varies by model
NHTSA Rating:
Refer to specific model year and testing protocols; generally performed well for its era but detailed public ratings are less common for this niche vehicle.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP)/ASR (Acceleration Skid Control), Traction Control
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, side airbags (integrated into seats), rollover protection bars (deployable), seatbelt pre-tensioners
Infotainment System:
COMAND 2.0/2.0 M (optional navigation system), basic radio/cassette or CD players with optional amplifier systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking assist (later models, optional)
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; typically Bluetooth phone integration was an aftermarket or later OEM option. Power windows, mirrors, and seats were standard/optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific model year and oil type.
Major Service Intervals:
Major service (e.g., spark plugs, filters) typically around 30,000-50,000 miles. Consult manual for specific 'Service A', 'Service B', etc.
Engine Oil Spec:
MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 (e.g., 5W-40, 0W-40 synthetic). Refer to specific model year and engine for exact specification.
Coolant Spec:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or similar silicate-free formula, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (e.g., ATF LT 71141 for 722.6 transmissions). Crucial to use correct fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
MB 236.3 (Hydraulic Fluid)
Common Problem Vario Roof:
Leaking hydraulic lines, pump failure, faulty microswitches, worn seals affecting Vario-roof operation. Manual details troubleshooting and repair.
Common Problem Maf Sensor:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failure on M111 engines, leading to rough idle and performance issues.
Common Problem Evap System:
Evaporative Emission (EVAP) system leaks, often due to faulty purge valves or hoses, causing check engine lights.
Common Problem Coil Packs:
Ignition coil pack failures, leading to misfires and rough running, particularly on V6 models.
Common Problem Heater Controls:
Heater control panel issues or HVAC blower motor resistor failures.
Manufacturer History:
Mercedes-Benz, renowned for luxury, engineering, and safety since the early 20th century.
R170 Introduction:
Introduced in 1996 as a compact, two-seater convertible aimed at a younger demographic and a more dynamic driving experience than traditional Mercedes models. Competed in the burgeoning roadster segment.
Facelift:
Received a significant facelift in 2000, including revised bumpers, grille, headlights, taillights, interior updates, and new engine options (e.g., SLK 320, SLK 32 AMG).
Production Period:
1996-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
