Segment:
Compact premium sports roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, compact, and agile two-seater convertible
Key Competitors:
BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster (later models), Audi TT (later models)
Convertible Top:
Vario-roof (retractable hardtop) introduced on later models, but early R170 had a soft-top with integrated roll-over protection.
Handling:
Nimble handling, rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis
Design:
Distinctive 'Silver Arrows' inspired front-end styling, compact dimensions
Engine Coverage:
2.0L (M111.940) & 2.3L Supercharged (M111.973)
Transmission Coverage:
5-speed Automatic (722.604)
Electrical System Coverage:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures
Body And Chassis Coverage:
Body repair, structural analysis, suspension, steering, braking systems
Total Pages:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but implied comprehensive)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication, cooling, timing
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnosis
Transmission Mechanical:
Automatic transmission assembly, valve body, torque converter, internal components
Transmission Control:
Electronic transmission control unit (ETC) diagnosis, shift solenoids
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation), brake caliper service, rotor replacement
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, steering rack, power steering system
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components and service
Body And Trim:
Exterior body panel removal/installation, interior trim, convertible top mechanism
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, fault code interpretation
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for overhauling engines, transmissions, and major components
Torque Specifications:
Critical torque values for all fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Complete factory-level repair and diagnostic information
Diagnostic Tools:
References to necessary diagnostic tools and equipment
Engine Type 1:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement 1:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke 1:
89.9 mm x 78.7 mm
Compression Ratio 1:
10.3:1
Horsepower 1:
136 PS (134 hp; 100 kW) at 5500 rpm
Torque 1:
190 Nm (140 lb-ft) at 4000 rpm
Engine Code 2:
M111.973 (Supercharged)
Engine Type 2:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, Supercharged
Displacement 2:
2295 cc (2.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke 2:
90.9 mm x 88.4 mm
Compression Ratio 2:
8.8:1
Horsepower 2:
193 PS (190 hp; 142 kW) at 5300 rpm
Torque 2:
280 Nm (207 lb-ft) at 2500 rpm
Injection System:
Bosch Motronic M4.1 / M5.2 electronic fuel injection
Octane Rating:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Automatic (722.604)
Transmission Type Opt:
5-Speed Manual (Introduced later in R170 lifecycle, but not for initial 1996 models as per standard documentation)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, Lock-up torque converter, Selectable drive modes (Standard/Comfort)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB-Approval 236.10 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF 220)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Specific ratings for 1996 models may be limited, but generally designed to meet European safety standards of the era)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Asr:
Optional (Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Rollover Protection:
Integrated roll-over bar behind the seats
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette or CD player with optional premium sound system.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (Thermatic/Thermotronic).
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by 1996 standards; typically features for external audio input (e.g., CD changer prep) rather than integrated Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specifications)
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for 'Service A' and 'Service B' intervals which include more comprehensive checks and replacements (e.g., coolant, brake fluid, spark plugs, air filters).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB-Approval 229.1 or 229.3 (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 synthetic) - consult manual for exact viscosity
Coolant Specification:
MB-Approval 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant concentrate, blue/green)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
MB-Approval 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can lead to intermittent starting or stalling.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Can become dirty or fail, affecting engine performance and fuel economy.
Window Regulators:
Can be prone to failure, especially on convertible top models.
Variator Mechanism Issues:
For Vario-roof models, issues with hydraulic lines, pumps, or sensors can occur.
Rust Corrosion:
Check common areas like wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms for rust.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing luxury and sports vehicles, including iconic roadsters like the 300SL 'Gullwing' and the R107 SL-Class.
First Generation:
The R170 generation of the SLK-Class was launched in 1996 as Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact roadster market. It was a significant departure from the larger SL models.
Key Innovation:
The R170 was one of the first production cars to feature a retractable hardtop (Vario-roof), although this was introduced on later models (1997 onwards).
Production Years:
1996 - 2004 (R170 platform)
Manufacturing Plant:
Bremen, Germany