Positioning:
The Mercedes-Benz SLK230 (R170) was positioned as a compact, entry-level luxury roadster, offering a blend of performance, advanced technology (especially the Vario-roof), and Mercedes-Benz build quality.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles such as the BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster, Audi TT (later models), and Mazda Miata (MX-5) in terms of size and market segment, though often at a higher price point due to its features.
Highlight Features:
Innovative Vario-roof (retractable hardtop), Supercharged engine for peppy performance, Compact and agile handling, Mercedes-Benz safety and luxury standards.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 1000-1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, often with searchable text and high-resolution diagrams)
Powertrain:
Engine (M111), Transmission (5-speed Automatic 722.6, optional manual), Drivetrain, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, ESP), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Audio System, Climate Control Electronics, SRS (Airbag) System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Hardtop (Vario-roof) Operation and Maintenance, Interior Trim, Glass
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (Oil changes, filter replacements, inspections), Fluid Level Checks and Replenishments, Belt Inspections and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) retrieval and interpretation, Component testing procedures, Circuit tracing and testing, Troubleshooting flowcharts for common symptoms
Repair:
Component removal and installation (e.g., engine, transmission, suspension parts, brakes), Electrical component repair, Convertible top mechanism repair, Bodywork and paint repair guidance
Technical Procedures:
Engine timing procedures, Torque specifications for critical fasteners, Diagnostic tool usage, Specialized tool requirements
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and detailed electrical system diagnostics)
Engine Code:
M111.973 (2.3L Supercharged Inline-4)
Displacement:
2295 cc (2.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
90.9 mm x 88.4 mm
Horsepower:
192 hp (143 kW) @ 5300 rpm
Torque:
200 lb-ft (271 Nm) @ 2500 rpm
Induction:
Supercharged, Intercooled
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
ME 2.0 (Motronic Electronic 2.0)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-Tronic')
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, Comfort and Sport modes, Sequential shifting capability
Automatic Fluid:
MB Spec 236.12 (e.g., Mobil ATF 134, Pentosin ATF1) - *Crucial to use correct fluid*
Manual Fluid:
MB Spec 235.10 (e.g., Mercedes-Benz Gear Oil G 052 171 A1)
Length:
157.3 inches (4000 mm)
Width:
69.4 inches (1762 mm)
Height:
50.9 inches (1293 mm)
Wheelbase:
94.5 inches (2400 mm)
Trunk Volume Hardtop Up:
approx. 5.5 cu ft (155 Liters)
Trunk Volume Hardtop Down:
approx. 2.2 cu ft (65 Liters)
Curb Weight:
approx. 3000-3100 lbs (1360-1406 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
approx. 3800 lbs (1724 kg)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
Likely 4-star driver, 4-star passenger (based on contemporary Mercedes-Benz standards)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) - Standard on many models
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR) - Standard
Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard, Ventilated front discs, Solid rear discs
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, Side airbags (optional/standard depending on market)
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bar system integrated behind seats
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system often available, AM/FM radio with cassette player or CD player depending on options.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights, often with integrated fog lamps. Automatic headlamp control available.
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated cellular phone system (often analog or early digital, likely superseded).
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific indicator system (ASSYST).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 10,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Typically Bosch F7DC0R or equivalent. Replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on type (standard vs. long-life).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as per ASSYST recommendations.
Engine Oil:
MB Spec 229.1 / 229.3 (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40 synthetic). Capacity: approx. 6.9 quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (Low Viscosity)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Spec 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S, or Dexron III if specified as equivalent).
Common Problems:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failure, Ignition coil failure, Water ingress into fuse box/ECU compartment, Vacuum hose deterioration, Vario-roof hydraulic leaks or pump issues, Crankshaft position sensor failure, Heater control valve failure.
Heritage Connection:
Part of Mercedes-Benz's long history of producing innovative and premium roadsters, building on the legacy of models like the 190SL and 300SL.
Introduction:
The R170 generation of the SLK was introduced in 1996, with the SLK230 Kompressor (supercharged) becoming a significant seller. The 1998 model year represents an early version of this successful platform.
Facelift:
The R170 received a facelift in 2000, with updates to styling, engines, and features.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
