🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SLK320

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

R170

Generation:

Second Generation (R170 Facelift)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK320 occupied the premium compact roadster segment, directly competing with vehicles like the BMW Z3/Z4, Audi TT Roadster, and Porsche Boxster. It offered a blend of luxury, performance, and the innovative Vario-Roof retractable hardtop.

Competitive Analysis:

The SLK320 differentiated itself with its sophisticated Vario-Roof, offering coupe-like security and quietness when closed, and open-air freedom when open. Its V6 engine provided a balance of power and refinement, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable yet engaging convertible experience.

Key Features:

Vario-Roof retractable hardtop, 3.2L V6 engine, RWD, luxurious interior appointments, advanced safety features for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Bodywork, Chassis, Diagnostics, Maintenance

Page Count:

Estimated 2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive service software)

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable digital format with search functionality)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly and reassembly of the M112 engine, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for the ME 2.8 engine control unit (ECU), fuel injection system (Sequential Multi-Point Injection - SMPI), ignition system, emissions control systems (OBD-II compliant).

Transmission:

Service and repair of the 5G-TRONIC (722.6) automatic transmission, including torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, solenoids, transmission control module (TCM), fluid and filter replacement.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, including MacPherson struts, multi-link rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, ball joints, control arms, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering fluid specifications and replacement.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (discs), brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.

Electrical Systems:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and descriptions, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, power seats, central locking, alarm system.

Comfort Systems:

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, climate control, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant R134a, cabin air filter replacement.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, convertible top (Vario-Roof) system operation and service, chassis lubrication, rust prevention.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, transmission fluid and filter service.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) lookup and interpretation, procedures for using diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS).

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair across all major vehicle systems.

Rebuilds:

Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Systematic approach to diagnosing and repairing electrical faults, including wiring harness repair, component testing, and relay/fuse identification.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic owner maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including electronic diagnostics and component-level repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software format, potentially with PDF export capability for printouts.

Print Quality:

N/A (Software-based, print quality dependent on user's printer)

Binding Type:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M112 E32

Engine Type:

SOHC V6 (90-degree bank angle)

Displacement:

3199 cc (3.2 liters)

Horsepower:

215 hp @ 5750 rpm

Torque:

229 lb-ft @ 3000-4600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SMPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent, typically a silicate-free blue coolant)

Oil Type:

SAE 0W-40 or 0W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic (722.6 "5G-TRONIC")

Optional Transmission:

Not applicable for SLK320

Transmission Features:

Driver-adaptive shifting, Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes, manual shifting capability via shifter.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Specification 236.10 or 236.12 (e.g., MB 236.14 is backward compatible for some applications, verify with manual)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 - 8.0 liters (16.4 - 17.6 US quarts) for complete refill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4056 mm (159.7 in)

Width:

1741 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1293 mm (50.9 in)

Wheelbase:

2400 mm (94.5 in)

Trunk Volume Top Up:

Approx. 145 liters (5.1 cu ft)

Trunk Volume Top Down:

Approx. 85 liters (3.0 cu ft)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1460 kg (3219 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1800 kg (3968 lbs)

Standard Wheel Size:

16 x 7.5J or 17 x 7.5J (front), 17 x 8.5J (rear)

Standard Tire Size:

205/55 R16 (front), 225/50 R16 (rear) or 225/45 R17 (front), 245/40 R17 (rear)

Bolt Pattern:

5x112

Offset:

Varies by wheel size (e.g., ET37 front, ET30 rear for 17" wheels)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4 Stars (Driver), 5 Stars (Passenger) - Based on typical ratings for vehicles of this era. Specific NHTSA testing data for the 2003 SLK320 should be verified.

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (Likely Good based on structural integrity and standard side airbags, specific IIHS data should be verified.)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS).

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags integrated into seats, roll-over protection system (pop-up hoops), front and rear crumple zones, three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Original COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, optional CD changer, premium audio system (e.g., Bose).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Rain-sensing wipers (optional), Automatic Climate Control.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by modern standards; primarily featured an optional CD changer and a basic radio system. Bluetooth connectivity was not standard.

Lighting Features:

Halogen projector headlights, integrated fog lamps, Xenon headlamps (optional), LED taillights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).

Major Service Interval:

Approx. 30,000 miles (includes spark plugs, potentially brake fluid flush, air filter).

Transmission Service Interval:

Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles for fluid and filter change.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 PLUS (MB-Approval 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MB 345.0 (Hydraulic fluid, typically Dexron III compatible but MB spec is preferred)

Known Issues Common:

Vario-Roof hydraulic leaks, actuator failures, window regulator issues, mass air flow (MAF) sensor failures, ignition coil failures (M112 engine), CAN bus communication errors, blower motor resistor failure.

Known Issues Preventative:

Regular lubrication of Vario-Roof seals and mechanisms, consistent replacement of air filters, periodic inspection of cooling system hoses.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation in the automotive industry, dating back to the invention of the automobile itself.

Model Evolution:

The SLK-Class was introduced in 1996 as the R170. The SLK320, introduced in 2000, featured the new M112 V6 engine, replacing the previous supercharged 2.3L inline-4 (SLK230 Kompressor). The 2003 model year represented the final iteration of the R170 generation before its successor, the R171, was introduced.

Production Years:

R170 SLK-Class: 1996-2004. SLK320 specifically: 2000-2004.

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2003 SLK320 might be scarce, the SLK-Class as a model line has been recognized for its innovative Vario-Roof technology and its contribution to the premium roadster segment. Its design often garnered praise for elegance and sportiness.

Ratings:

Generally received positive reviews for ride comfort, interior quality, and Vario-Roof functionality, though often out-performed by sportier competitors in pure driving dynamics.

Certifications:

Certified by Mercedes-Benz for adherence to stringent quality and safety standards. Meets all relevant European and US automotive safety regulations for its model year.