Market Position:
The 2010 SLK55 AMG represented the pinnacle of performance and luxury in Mercedes-Benz's compact roadster segment. It competed directly with high-performance sports cars from brands like Porsche and BMW.
Competitive Analysis:
Positioned as a more powerful and refined alternative to the BMW Z4 M and Porsche Boxster S of the era, offering a potent V8 engine and sophisticated chassis dynamics.
Key Features:
Naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 engine, AMG-tuned suspension, AMG-specific exterior and interior styling, advanced infotainment and safety features for its time, retractable hardtop.
Coverage Areas:
Complete service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance for the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG.
Page Count:
Estimated 1,500+ pages (typical for comprehensive official workshop manuals).
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software (Workshop Manual).
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable).
Software Updates:
Officially licensed software typically receives updates for compatibility and expanded diagnostic data.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain, Transmission (AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC), Brakes (AMG High-Performance Braking System), Suspension (AMG Sports Suspension), Steering, Electrical System, Climate Control, Body & Chassis, Interior, Safety Systems (ABS, ESP, Airbags), Infotainment, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Diagnostic Troubleshooting (including fault code interpretation), Engine Overhaul and Repair, Transmission Service and Repair, Brake System Servicing and Component Replacement, Suspension and Steering System Repair, Electrical System Troubleshooting and Component Replacement, Climate Control System Repair, Bodywork and Panel Repair, Interior Trim and Component Replacement, Safety System Checks and Replacements, Software Updates and Re-flashing Procedures.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and detailed component-level repair procedures. Includes torque specifications, special tool requirements, and alignment data.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed procedures for using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis/XENTRY), including reading and clearing fault codes, live data stream analysis, component activation, and guided troubleshooting.
Bodywork Procedures:
Body panel alignment, Vario-Roof mechanism service and repair, door and hinge adjustments, bumper and trim replacement, corrosion prevention checks.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
5.4 L (5439 cc)
Horsepower:
355 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
391 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, variable valve timing.
Cooling System Type:
Liquid-cooled, with dual radiators and an engine oil cooler.
Ignition Type:
Distributorless ignition with coil-on-plug.
Transmission Type:
AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC Automatic
Optional Transmission:
N/A for SLK55 AMG
Transmission Features:
Manual shifting mode (paddle shifters), Sport and Comfort modes.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Transmission Gear Ratios:
1st: 4.38, 2nd: 2.86, 3rd: 1.72, 4th: 1.31, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.82, 7th: 0.73; Reverse: 3.41; Final Drive: 3.06.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
Not specifically rated for 2010 model year, but typically excellent for Mercedes-Benz.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Passive Safety Features:
Front dual-stage airbags, side-impact airbags, knee airbags, rollover protection system (pop-up roll bars).
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (with optional hard-drive navigation, CD/DVD changer, SiriusXM Satellite Radio).
Display:
7-inch color display.
Driver Assistance Features:
Parktronic (parking sensors), Bi-Xenon Headlights with Active Curve Illumination, Adaptive Highbeam Assist.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling and audio streaming (via Media Interface).
Comfort Features:
Heated and Ventilated Seats, AIRSCARF (neck-level heating system), Keyless-Go (keyless entry and ignition), dual-zone automatic climate control.
Service A Interval:
Approx. 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. (See manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions).
Service B Interval:
Approx. 20,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. (See manual for exact intervals).
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-40 (MB Approved 229.5 specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 / 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, concentrated)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (or DOT 5.1)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S (or equivalent MB approved fluid).
Known Issues:
M156 engine: Camshaft Wear (early models, though 2010 is improved), valve stem seals, oil leaks (e.g., oil cooler seals), carbon build-up on intake valves. Transmission: Occasional harsh shifting. Electronics: Sensor failures, SAM unit issues. Suspension: ABC hydraulic leaks (if equipped), subframe bushings.
Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter HU816z, Mahle OX174/1D, or Mercedes-Benz A2731800109.
Air Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter C30116/2, Mahle LX1004, or Mercedes-Benz A2730940704.
Service B Items:
Includes Service A items plus: replace cabin air filter, replace engine air filter, inspect drive belts, inspect suspension components, inspect exhaust system, check and top off all fluid levels, inspect brake pads and rotors.
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and performance, particularly with its AMG division specializing in high-performance vehicles.
Model Evolution:
The R171 SLK generation, introduced in 2004, featured the innovative Vario-Roof (retractable hardtop). The SLK55 AMG was the high-performance variant, receiving its first major update in 2008, which included the M156 engine and the 7G-TRONIC transmission.
Production Period:
The R171 SLK was produced from 2004 to 2010. The SLK55 AMG variant was available throughout this period.
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany.
Engine Development Notes:
The M156 engine was Mercedes-AMG's first entirely in-house designed engine, known for its robust construction and high-revving nature.
