Segment:
Premium Compact Sports Roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops
Key Competitors:
BMW Z4, Audi TT, Porsche Boxster (earlier generations)
Vehicle Highlights:
Retractable Hardtop (Vario-Roof), Compact and Agile Handling, Premium Interior, Advanced Technology
Cost Savings:
Enables significant savings on dealership service costs
Ease Of Use:
Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions with pictures
Accessibility:
Downloadable to PC, Mac, Tablets, and Smartphones
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair Procedures
Model Variants Covered:
All Models, Engines, Trim Levels, and Transmission Types
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Exact number not specified, implies comprehensive)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF compatible)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic and Manual, if applicable), Drivelines, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering System, Brakes (including ABS/ESP), Wheels and Tires
Electrical And Electronics:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting Systems, Infotainment System, Sensors, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Convertible Roof System (Vario-Roof), Interior Trim, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishments, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad/Disc Service
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing, Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guides
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Procedures, Diagnostic Tool Usage, System Scans
Depth:
Comprehensive A-Z Coverage, Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions, Exploded Views, Torque Specifications, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Flowcharts
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Slk250:
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (M271.860)
Slk350:
3.5L Naturally Aspirated V6 (M276.951)
Horsepower:
201 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 2000-4000 rpm
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm
Injection Type:
Direct Injection (BlueDIRECT)
Recommended Octane:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB standards
Standard Transmission Slk250
Type:
7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC PLUS)
Optional Transmission Slk350
Type:
7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC PLUS)
Modes:
Sport, Economy (ECO) modes
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.14 (e.g., Mobil ATF 134, Pentosin ATF1)
Length:
approx. 163.4 inches (4150 mm)
Width:
approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
approx. 51.2 inches (1301 mm)
Wheelbase:
approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm)
Curb Weight Slk250:
approx. 3200 lbs (1450 kg)
Curb Weight Slk350:
approx. 3400 lbs (1540 kg)
Trunk Space Roof Up:
approx. 10.1 cu ft (285 liters)
Trunk Space Roof Down:
approx. 6.4 cu ft (180 liters)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Likely 5-Star (based on typical Mercedes-Benz ratings for this era)
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESPยฎ)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Brake Assist:
Standard (BAS)
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, Side, Knee Airbags
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up Roll Bars (integrated behind headrests)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and Load Limiters
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Display:
Central color display
Audio Features:
AM/FM Radio, CD Player, Bluetooth Audio Streaming, optional Harman Kardon surround sound
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional (DISTRONIC PLUS)
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Optional (BLIS)
Lane Keeping Assist:
Optional
Bluetooth:
Standard for hands-free calling and audio streaming
Airscarf:
Optional neck-level heating system
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific model year)
Major Service Interval:
Service B (e.g., at 20,000 miles or 24 months, then every 20,000 miles or 24 months thereafter, including brake fluid replacement)
Engine Oil Type Slk250:
Synthetic SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 meeting MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 specifications
Engine Oil Type Slk350:
Synthetic SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 meeting MB 229.5 specification
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 (Glycol-based, typically blue)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0)
Common Concerns:
Vario-Roof hydraulic leaks or malfunctions, Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, Ignition coil failures, Transmission control module issues (less common)
Manufacturer:
Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz)
R172 Generation:
Third Generation SLK-Class (introduced in 2011, facelifted in 2015)
Key Previous Generations:
R170 (1996-2004), R171 (2004-2010)
Manufacturing Plant:
Bremen, Germany
๐ Awards & Recognition
Previous Model Awards:
The R172 predecessor (R171) received numerous awards for design and performance from automotive publications.
Design Awards:
Known for its sharp, aggressive styling and well-appointed interior, contributing to its premium appeal.
