Positioning:
Premium Grand Tourer, High-Performance Sports Car
Competitors:
Aston Martin DB9, Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder, Porsche 911 Turbo
Performance Focus:
Focus on the twin-turbocharged V12 engine, advanced suspension, and AMG performance enhancements.
Target Audience:
Owners and independent technicians requiring in-depth technical information for repair and maintenance of the SL65 AMG.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Component Replacement, Electrical Schematics, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)
Powertrain:
Engine (M275), Transmission (7G-TRONIC 722.6), Drivetrain, Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (ABC - Active Body Control), Steering, Brakes (AMG High-Performance), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Climate Control, Navigation, Power Accessories, Airbags (SRS), ABS, ESP
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Interior Trim, Seats, Exterior Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Tune-ups
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair/Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Convertible Top Mechanism Repair
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, System Troubleshooting Flowcharts
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Diagnostic Parameters, Component Data, Alignment Specs
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
๐ Manual Specifications
Format Details:
Software executable, likely providing an interactive and searchable interface. May include PDF chapters.
Quality:
High resolution, clear diagrams and text. Designed for professional use.
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Engine Type:
M275: 6.0L (5980cc) Twin-Turbocharged V12
Bore X Stroke:
82.6 mm x 93.0 mm
Horsepower:
604 hp @ 4800-5500 rpm
Torque:
738 lb-ft (1000 Nm) @ 2000-4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
ECU:
ME 2.8 (Motor Electronics)
Transmission Type:
AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC Automatic
Gear Ratios:
4.377 (1st), 2.859 (2nd), 1.773 (3rd), 1.354 (4th), 1.000 (5th), 0.831 (6th), 0.732 (7th), 4.000 (Reverse)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Approval 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Amg Modes:
Sport, Manual, Comfort modes
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not Rated (Vehicle class) - Generally excellent occupant protection in its era.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not Rated (Vehicle class)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BAS)
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Suspension:
Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system
Airbags:
Front airbags, Side airbags, Knee airbags, Roll-over protection system
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and force limiter equipped seatbelts
Command System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation) with CD/DVD changer, radio, navigation, and optional Harman Kardon audio.
Climate Control:
THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control with dual-zone capability.
Cruise Control:
DISTRONIC (optional adaptive cruise control)
Parking Assistance:
Front and rear PARKTRONIC parking sensors
Phone Integration:
Bluetoothยฎ interface for hands-free telephony (via UHI connector).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Check manual for severe conditions.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years (DOT 4 Plus recommended)
Coolant Change:
First change at 15,000 miles or 3 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 40,000 miles or 4 years (crucial for longevity).
Engine Oil:
Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic (MB Approval 229.5)
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-48 or equivalent MB 325.0 / 326.0)
Abc Suspension:
Hydraulic leaks from ABC struts, lines, and pump are common. Fluid reservoir and filter maintenance is critical.
Twin Turbo System:
Intercooler leaks, turbocharger wastegate issues, and ignition coil failures can occur.
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic pump, cylinder seals, and microswitches for the retractable hardtop can require service.
Ignition System:
Spark plug and coil pack failure can lead to misfires, especially on the V12's dual ignition setup.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and performance, particularly with its SL (Super Light) line.
R230 Generation:
The R230 generation (2002-2011) introduced the Variable Active Suspension (VAS) or Active Body Control (ABC) and represented a significant leap in technology and design for the SL-Class.
Sl65 Amg Positioning:
The SL65 AMG was the flagship performance model of the R230 generation, showcasing AMG's expertise in creating extremely powerful and luxurious roadsters.
Production Period:
2002-2011 (R230 generation), SL65 AMG specifically from 2004 onwards.
๐ Awards & Recognition
Performance Awards:
While specific awards for the 2008 SL65 AMG are not as widely documented as broader model accolades, it was consistently recognized by automotive journalists for its extreme performance and luxury synthesis.
General Reputation:
Highly regarded as one of the most powerful and luxurious grand tourers of its time.
