Vehicle Segment:
Compact luxury roadster
Primary Competitors:
BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster (early models), Audi TT (later models).
Vario Roof:
Electrically operated retractable hardtop, a signature feature of the SLK.
Styling:
Distinctive 'Formula One' inspired styling with a prominent front grille and sculpted bodywork.
Target Audience:
Mechanical technicians and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Cost Savings:
Enables DIY repairs, saving on dealership labor and overhead costs.
Quality Service:
Aids in building a reputation for quality service by providing accurate, reliable information.
Informed Ownership:
Empowers owners to understand their vehicle better and perform repairs knowledgeably.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Removal, installation, overhaul, and repair procedures.
Drivetrain:
Includes differential, axles, and driveshafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, and alignment.
Steering:
Steering gear, power steering system, and steering column.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake pads, discs, calipers, and lines.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, and various electrical modules.
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism (Vario-Roof), and corrosion protection.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, and ventilation.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelts, and other passive safety features.
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures for common and complex issues across all systems.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all components and systems.
Overhaul:
In-depth procedures for complete disassembly and reassembly of major components like engines and transmissions.
Installation:
Instructions for installing new or reconditioned parts.
Tune Ups:
Procedures for optimizing engine performance.
Depth Of Coverage:
Highly detailed, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Emphasizes specific product aspects and proprietary components.
Special Tools:
Identifies and illustrates required or recommended Mercedes-Benz special tool numbers for specific adjustments and repairs.
Warnings Cautions Notes:
Utilizes WARNING, CAUTION, and NOTE designations to highlight critical safety and procedural information.
Proprietary Components:
Includes instructions for proprietary components, referencing manufacturer guidelines where necessary for proper understanding and function assessment.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed procedures for both simple and complex assemblies and disassemblies across all vehicle systems.
Engine Code Typical:
M111 E23 ML (supercharged)
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2295 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 193 hp (142 kW) @ 5300 rpm (for Kompressor/supercharged models)
Torque:
Approximately 200 lb-ft (270 Nm) @ 2500-4200 rpm (for Kompressor/supercharged models)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with a supercharger (Kompressor).
Induction Type:
Roots-type supercharger (Kompressor)
Cylinder Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual for specific OE part numbers (e.g., Bosch FGR7KQE0U).
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 (API SJ or higher, MB-Approval 229.3).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.8 US quarts (5.5 liters).
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (with Touchshift)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Touchshift manual shifting mode.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific MB specifications (e.g., MB 235.10).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.10 (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Pentosin ATF 1).
Crash Test Ratings:
Refer to NHTSA/IIHS for specific model year ratings. Generally well-regarded for its class.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) often standard or optional.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags, side airbags (optional/later models).
Rollover Protection:
Integrated rollover protection bars behind the seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Approximately every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise intervals and conditions).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for specific service A, B, C etc. intervals, typically around 30,000 miles or 2 years for more comprehensive checks.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or similar based on silicate content).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (ISO 4925 Class 4).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 power steering fluid or equivalent.
Vario Roof Actuators:
Common issue with hydraulic leaks or failures in the Vario-Roof system's actuators and pumps.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Can become faulty, leading to poor engine performance and check engine lights.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can cause no-start conditions or intermittent stalling.
Ignition Coils:
Can fail over time, leading to misfires.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and automotive innovation, including pioneering the roadster segment.
R170 Introduction:
The R170 SLK was first introduced in 1996, targeting a younger demographic and expanding the Mercedes-Benz convertible lineup.
Facelifts:
Received a significant facelift for the 2001 model year, featuring revised bumpers, headlights, taillights, and interior upgrades.
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany
