🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL-Class

Model Code:

R230

Year:

2012

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230) represents the pinnacle of luxury grand touring convertibles, blending sophisticated technology with performance and comfort. It competes with other high-end roadsters from brands like Porsche, BMW, and Jaguar.

Rivals:

Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, BMW 6 Series Convertible, Jaguar XK Convertible, Maserati GranTurismo Convertible.

Features:

Retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof), advanced Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, powerful V8 and V12 engine options, luxurious interior appointments, and advanced safety systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230) generation.

Estimated Pages:

Extensive; typically over 2,000 pages for this level of comprehensive coverage.

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), Searchable, Printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete diagnostics, repair procedures, and specifications for all R230 SL-Class engine variants offered in 2012 (e.g., M272, M273, M156, M159 where applicable).

Transmission:

Detailed procedures for automatic transmissions (e.g., 7G-TRONIC PLUS), including removal, installation, overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.

Suspension Steering:

Full coverage of Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, standard suspension components, steering system diagnostics, repair, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system components, ABS, ESP, SBC (if applicable to later R230 models), hydraulic systems, rotor/pad replacement, bleeding procedures, and specifications.

Electrical Electronics:

Extensive coverage of the entire electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component location, diagnosis of control modules (e.g., ECU, TCU, SAM units), lighting, power accessories, and comfort systems.

Body Chassis:

Body panel repair, convertible top mechanism (Vario-Roof), door mechanisms, interior trim removal, and chassis component repair.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement, and performance checks.

Safety Restraint:

Airbag system diagnosis, SRS module, seatbelt mechanisms, and related safety components.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank, pressure regulator, and evaporative emissions control system diagnosis and repair.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converters, mufflers, oxygen sensors, and emissions control components.

Lighting System:

Headlights (halogen, xenon, LED), taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, and related control modules.

Instrumentation Gauges:

Instrument cluster diagnosis, gauge operation, warning lights, and trip computer functionality.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and inspection procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults, fault codes (DTCs) interpretation.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for virtually all vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

Diagnosis of electronic control units (ECUs), sensor testing, actuator testing, and use of diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR/XENTRY).

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, system pressures, and other critical technical data.

Body Repair:

Panel alignment, structural repair guidance, Vario-Roof operation and adjustment procedures.

Wheel Tire:

Wheel and tire specifications, lug nut torque, jacking points, tire pressure settings.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and structural repair.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan assembly, and climate control integration.

Completeness:

Complete, factory-authorized documentation, not a Haynes or Chilton equivalent. This is the professional-grade resource used by certified technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Detail:

Likely high-resolution PDF files, enabling clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text. Optimized for searchability.

Quality:

Professional quality, matching dealership service documentation standards.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants 2012:

Likely includes the SL550 (4.6L V8 Bi-Turbo M278), SL63 AMG (5.5L V8 Bi-Turbo M157), and potentially SL65 AMG (6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo M275).

Sl550 2012 Approx Hp:

429 hp

Sl550 2012 Approx Torque:

516 lb-ft

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Injection System:

Direct Injection (for M278 engines), Sequential Port Fuel Injection (for older variants).

Sl63 Amg 2012 Engine:

5.5L V8 Bi-Turbo (M157)

Sl63 Amg 2012 Approx Hp:

530 hp (with Performance Package)

Sl63 Amg 2012 Approx Torque:

590 lb-ft

Sl65 Amg 2012 Engine:

6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo (M275)

Sl65 Amg 2012 Approx Hp:

621 hp

Sl65 Amg 2012 Approx Torque:

738 lb-ft

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS) for most models.

Optional Transmission:

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission for SL63 AMG, AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC for SL65 AMG.

Transmission Features:

Paddle shifters, Comfort, Sport, and Manual modes, torque converter, electronic control.

📐 Dimensions

Length Approx:

178.5 inches (4534 mm)

Width Approx:

73.1 inches (1857 mm)

Height Approx:

52.2 inches (1326 mm)

Wheelbase Approx:

101.8 inches (2585 mm)

Curb Weight Approx Sl550:

4,178 lbs (1895 kg)

Curb Weight Approx Sl63 Amg:

4,299 lbs (1950 kg)

Curb Weight Approx Sl65 Amg:

4,575 lbs (2075 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

While specific NHTSA ratings for the 2012 R230 are scarce, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era are known for robust safety structures and comprehensive airbag systems, typically performing well in internal and third-party crash testing.

Active Safety:

ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Adaptive Cruise Control (Distronic Plus - optional).

Passive Safety:

Multiple airbags (front, side, knee), roll-over protection system (pop-up roll bars), reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with a high-resolution display, CD/DVD player, AM/FM/Weatherband radio, and optional Harman Kardon surround sound.

Navigation System:

Hard-drive based navigation system with real-time traffic data.

Driver Assistance Systems:

Optional Distronic Plus (adaptive cruise control), Parktronic (parking sensors), bi-xenon headlights with active curve illumination, adaptive high beam assist.

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, Media Interface for iPod/USB connection.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, subject to driving conditions. Refer to the manual for specific 'ASSYST' service interval indicators.

Major Service Interval:

Major services (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid) typically around 40,000-60,000 miles or as indicated by the service reminder system.

Engine Oil Spec:

Mobil 1 Synthetic ESP Formula 5W-30 or equivalent meeting MB-Approval 229.51 or 229.52.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC PLUS) or MB 236.10 (for earlier models). Always verify with the manual and VIN.

Coolant Spec:

Mercedes-Benz Coolant/Antifreeze MB 325.0 (blue) or MB 326.0 (concentrate, blue).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0).

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent.

Differential Fluid Spec:

Typically a synthetic gear oil meeting MB-Approval 235.7.

Common Faults:

ABC suspension hydraulic leaks (struts, accumulators, pumps), Vario-Roof hydraulic leaks and sensor issues, ignition coil failures, catalytic converter issues (on some models), electronic module failures (e.g., SAM units), and transmission control module issues.

Maintenance Focus Areas:

Regular ABC system flushing and filter replacement, vigilance for hydraulic leaks, timely replacement of ignition coils and spark plugs, and proper care of the Vario-Roof mechanism are crucial for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long and storied history in producing premium roadsters, dating back to iconic models like the 300 SL 'Gullwing'. The SL-Class has consistently represented the pinnacle of automotive luxury and engineering from the brand.

R230 Generation:

The R230 generation (2002-2011/2012) was a significant evolution, introducing the Vario-Roof retractable hardtop and the advanced Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system. The 2012 model year represents the final iteration of this generation before the R231.

R230 Facelift 2012 Update:

The 2012 model year represents the final iteration of the R230, following a significant facelift in 2008 which introduced new engines, updated styling, and the elimination of the SBC hydraulic braking system in favor of a more conventional system.

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

The SL-Class typically receives accolades for its luxurious appointments, performance, and advanced technology. While specific awards for the 2012 model may vary, it consistently ranked high in its segment for comfort and driving dynamics.