🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL320

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

R129

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL320 (R129 chassis) was positioned as a luxurious, high-performance grand tourer convertible, representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering and comfort for its era. It competed with other premium convertibles from brands like BMW (8 Series Convertible), Jaguar (XJS), and Porsche (911 Targa/Cabriolet).

Comparison:

Compared to its contemporaries, the SL320 offered a sophisticated ride, a powerful yet smooth inline-six engine, and the robust build quality synonymous with Mercedes-Benz. Its advanced safety features for the time, including standard airbags and ABS, set it apart. The R129 generation was known for its evolutionary design, retaining the classic SL proportions while incorporating modern aerodynamic enhancements.

Features:

The 1995 SL320 is characterized by its retractable hardtop (optional), power-operated soft top, advanced multi-link suspension, automatic climate control, and a comprehensive suite of electronic driver aids. The inline-six engine provided a balance of power and refinement.

Convertible Top Mechanism:

The R129's sophisticated electro-hydraulic convertible top system is a hallmark of its design and a significant area of coverage within the manual.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Mechanical:

Yes

Engine Electrical:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Exhaust System:

Yes

Transmission Automatic:

Yes

Drivetrain Rear Wheel Drive:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Electrical Systems:

Yes

Body And Chassis:

Yes

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:

Yes

Interior Trim:

Yes

Exterior Trim And Accessories:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Diagnostic Procedures:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Completeness:

Official licensed service and repair manual, indicating comprehensive coverage for all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

M104.941 3.2L Inline-6 DOHC (24-valve), including ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, fuel injection system (Bosch LH-Jetronic), ignition system (HFM), emissions control.

Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (722.4), torque converter, electronic control unit (ETC), hydraulic system, clutch packs, valve body.

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS - likely Bosch ABS 2.0 or 3.0), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Suspension Steering:

Independent front and rear suspension, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, anti-roll bars, power steering system, steering gearbox, steering linkage.

Electrical Lighting:

12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring harnesses, diagnostic connectors.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control (Klimatronik), HVAC blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant, AC system diagnostics and service.

Body Convertible:

Power-operated convertible soft top mechanism, hydraulic actuators, latches, sealing, body panel removal and installation, convertible top service.

Safety Systems:

Seat belts, airbags (SRS), roll bar deployment system, ABS.

Chassis Lubrication:

Information on any chassis lubrication points or procedures, though less common on modern unibody vehicles.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, transmission fluid and filter service, differential fluid service, accessory belt inspection and replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuild (complete disassembly and reassembly), cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing replacement, camshaft and valve train service, fuel injector replacement, throttle body service, MAF sensor replacement, oxygen sensor replacement, catalytic converter replacement, radiator and hose replacement, water pump replacement, starter and alternator replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, shock absorber and strut replacement, power steering pump and gearbox service, wheel bearing replacement, door panel removal, seat removal, convertible top mechanism repair.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, misfires, starting problems, overheating, electrical faults, HVAC malfunctions, convertible top issues. Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems, component testing procedures using multimeters and oscilloscopes, diagnosis of ABS, SRS, engine control, and comfort systems.

Troubleshooting Flowcharts:

The manual would feature detailed troubleshooting flowcharts to systematically diagnose issues, reducing guesswork for technicians.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners during assembly and disassembly of engine, transmission, suspension, and chassis components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic routine maintenance to advanced engine overhaul and complex electronic system diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF, potentially with a proprietary viewer for interactive features. Searchable text and high-resolution diagrams are expected.

Searchability:

Searchable text is a critical feature of good manual software, allowing users to quickly find specific topics or procedures.

Quality:

High resolution, clear diagrams, schematics, and illustrations. Suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Displacement:

M104.941, 3.2 Liters (3199 cc)

Horsepower:

228 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

232 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm

Injection Type:

Bosch LH-Jetronic Fuel Injection with HFM (Hot Film Air Mass sensor).

Configuration:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder

Valve Train:

Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with 4 valves per cylinder, providing excellent airflow and efficiency.

Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system.

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition system with individual ignition coils or coil packs.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (Model 722.4)

Control:

Electronic Transmission Control (ETC) for optimized shift points and comfort.

Fluid Type:

MB 236.3 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

178.3 inches (4529 mm)

Width:

70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

51.1 inches (1298 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.5 inches (2654 mm)

Front Track:

58.8 inches (1493 mm)

Rear Track:

59.1 inches (1501 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3900 lbs (1769 kg)

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 7.5 cubic feet (with top up)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Us NHTSA:

Not directly tested by modern standards, but built to robust Mercedes-Benz safety engineering principles of the era.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR - likely optional or early version).

Passive Safety:

Driver and passenger airbags, reinforced A-pillars, integrated roll bar with automatic deployment, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo system, often with optional CD changer. Speaker configuration varied by trim and options.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, ABS, and potentially ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) depending on options. Parktronic parking assist was not a common option for this model year.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Typically featured a radio antenna, and options for external CD changers. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity available from the factory.

Comfort Tech:

Automatic climate control (Klimatronik), power adjustable seats with memory, heated seats, power windows, power mirrors, remote central locking.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (or as indicated by the Flexible Service System).

Transmission Service:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles, including fluid and filter change.

Spark Plugs:

Approximately every 50,000-60,000 miles (depending on type, typically platinum or iridium).

Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic Oil meeting MB 229.3 specification.

Coolant:

Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent) mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified for earlier models), meeting MB 331.0 specification.

Power Steering Fluid:

MB 236.3 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or Pentosin CHF 11 S (check specific vehicle requirements).

Common Problems:

Soft top hydraulic leaks and pump failures, sagging headliner, worn VANOS solenoids (if applicable to this specific M104 variant, though less common than later versions), MAF sensor issues, SRS warning light illumination, rust on wheel arches and sills, plastic interior component degradation.

Electrical Gremlins:

Intermittent electrical issues can occur due to aging wiring harnesses and corroded connectors, especially in the convertible top system and body control modules.

Oil Filter:

Example: Mann-Filter HU 718/1y or equivalent OEM part number.

Air Filter:

Example: Mann-Filter C 36 154 or equivalent OEM part number.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long and storied history in producing luxurious and technologically advanced grand tourers, with the SL designation representing the 'Sport Leicht' (Sport Light) lineage dating back to the iconic 300SL 'Gullwing' of the 1950s. The R129 generation continued this legacy.

Evolution:

The R129 SL generation was introduced in 1989 as the successor to the R107. The SL320, powered by the new M104 inline-six engine, replaced the earlier SL300-24. This generation saw continuous refinement in technology, safety, and performance.

Production Years:

1989-2002 (R129 chassis). The SL320 variant was produced from 1993 to 1997 for the US market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1995 SL320 are not as widely publicized as its overall reputation, the R129 SL class consistently received accolades for its build quality, luxury, and engineering prowess from automotive publications of the era. It was often cited as a benchmark for luxury convertibles.