Positioning:
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL550 is a luxury grand tourer, known for its combination of performance, comfort, and advanced technology, targeting affluent buyers seeking a premium convertible experience.
Competitors:
Competes with vehicles such as the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, BMW 6 Series Convertible, and Jaguar XK Convertible.
Features:
Retractable hardtop, powerful V8 engine, advanced infotainment system, sophisticated suspension, and premium interior appointments.
Primary Coverage:
Owner's Information and Operation
Secondary Coverage:
Basic Maintenance, Specifications, Features
Estimated Page Count:
Information not explicitly stated, but factory manuals for this model are typically 300-500 pages.
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel information, engine oil specifications, battery, air filter(s), refill capacities.
Chassis And Suspension:
General operation, but specific technical details are limited to owner level.
Electrical And Electronics:
Instrument cluster explanation, entertainment systems, climate controls, lights, driver controls, locks and security.
Body And Interior:
Seating and safety restraints, locks, interior features related to driver controls.
Operation:
Detailed instructions on operating vehicle systems, including infotainment, climate control, lighting, and driver aids.
Maintenance:
Owner-level maintenance information, fluid specifications, refill capacities, basic checks.
Safety:
Operation of safety restraints, information on safety features, reporting safety defects (US specific).
Cleaning:
Guidelines for cleaning the vehicle.
Depth:
Owner-oriented, covering operation, features, basic maintenance, and specifications. Does not cover in-depth repair or diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
5.5 Liters (5461 cc)
Horsepower:
382 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
391 lb-ft @ 2800-4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic Motor Oil, e.g., Mobil 1 Formula M 5W-40 or equivalent meeting MB 229.5 specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts)
Air Filter Part Numbers:
Typically two filters; e.g., Mercedes-Benz Part Number A2730940504 or equivalent.
Transmission Type:
7-speed Automatic Transmission with TouchShift
Transmission Code:
7G-TRONIC
Driver Selectable Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Specification 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), e.g., Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 - 9.0 Liters (for a full flush and fill, though the manual might specify dry fill).
NHTSA Rating:
Specific NHTSA ratings for the 2009 model are not readily available in general databases, but Mercedes-Benz vehicles are designed to high safety standards.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, side airbags, head airbags, pop-up roll bar for enhanced rollover protection, seatbelt pretensioners.
System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, featuring a central display for navigation, audio, climate control, and vehicle settings.
Audio:
AM/FM radio, CD player (often with MP3 capability), optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Connectivity:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface, optional Media Interface for external device connection (e.g., iPod).
Assistance Features:
Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering function, cruise control, Parktronic parking sensors (front and rear).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, based on Mercedes-Benz Flexible Service System (FSS) and driving conditions.
Major Service Interval:
Requires inspection and potential replacement of various components at scheduled mileages (e.g., 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles), including spark plugs, brake fluid, and cabin filters. Specific details are in the factory service schedule.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Zerex G-05 or equivalent meeting MB 325.0 specification), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0).
Common Issues:
Potential issues can include ABC suspension hydraulic leaks, transmission control module failures, active headrest malfunctions, and vario-roof hydraulic system problems. (This manual will not detail repair for these).
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
Evolution:
The R230 SL-Class generation (introduced in 2002) featured a retractable vario-roof, an advanced ABC (Active Body Control) suspension system, and subsequent updates included engine revisions and technology enhancements. The 2009 model year saw the introduction of the M273 engine in the SL550.
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany