Vehicle Segment:
Compact Premium Sports Car / Roadster
Competitors:
BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, Porsche Boxster, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, Ford Mustang Convertible
Vehicle Defining Features:
Retractable Hardtop (VARIO-ROOF), Rear-wheel drive, Mercedes-Benz build quality and luxury, Compact sports car dynamics
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, Independent repair shops, Owners seeking detailed maintenance and repair knowledge
Primary Focus:
Service, Repair, and Troubleshooting
Markets Covered:
Global (assuming factory manual content)
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (as stated in description)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Language:
English (implied by product description and typical for this market)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, Engine electrical, Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic/manual), Drivetrain components (driveshafts, differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Braking system, Wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body control modules, Lighting, Instruments and controls, Audio system, Navigation system, Climate control, Powertrain control modules, Chassis control modules, Safety systems (ABS, ESP, Airbags)
Body:
Exterior body panels, Interior trim, Convertible hardtop mechanism, Doors, Windows, Locks, Bumpers, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Fluid changes, Filter replacements, Inspections
Repair:
Component removal and installation, Engine rebuild, Transmission overhaul, Suspension and steering repair, Brake repair, Electrical component replacement, Body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, Symptom-based troubleshooting, Electrical circuit diagnosis, Engine performance issues
Specifications:
Torque specifications, Clearances, Fluid capacities, Electrical resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers all repair, servicing, and troubleshooting)
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed photos, exploded diagrams
Compatibility:
Windows and MAC compatible
Accessibility:
Instant download, usable on multiple devices/computers
Licensing:
Lifetime usage, no expiry or renewal fees
Printability:
Printable (single pages or entire manual)
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Code Example:
M271 (for SLK 200/250 CGI)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Turbocharged (CGI - Charged Gasoline Injection)
Displacement Example:
1.8 Liter (1796 cc) for SLK 200 CGI / 250 CGI
Horsepower Example:
Approx. 184 hp (SLK 200 CGI) to 204 hp (SLK 250 CGI)
Torque Example:
Approx. 270 Nm (SLK 200 CGI) to 310 Nm (SLK 250 CGI)
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (CGI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48)
Oil Type Example:
Mobil 1 Formula M 5W-40 or equivalent MB-Approval 229.5
ECU Example:
Siemens Dalian (or Bosch depending on specific variant)
Transmission Type Example:
7G-TRONIC PLUS (7-speed Automatic)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Manual (less common in some markets)
Transmission Modes:
Comfort (C), Sport (S), Manual (M) modes, ECO start/stop function
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Length:
Approx. 4122 mm (162.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1790 mm (70.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1301 mm (51.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2430 mm (95.7 in)
Curb Weight Example:
Approx. 1425-1500 kg (depending on engine and options)
NHTSA Rating Example:
Typically rated highly, specific 2012 ratings may vary by region but generally excellent for its class.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation), BAS (Brake Assist System), TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Side airbags, Knee airbags (driver), Head airbags, Rollover protection system (pop-up bars), Seatbelt pretensioners
Infotainment System Example:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display)
Features Example:
Bluetooth connectivity, Radio, CD/DVD player, optional navigation, USB interface.
Driver Assistance Systems:
Optional: ATTENTION ASSIST (drowsiness detection), PARKTRONIC (parking sensors), BI-XENON Headlights with Active Curve Illumination.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval Example:
Typically every 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (for models using approved synthetic oils).
Major Service Interval Example:
Every 30,000 km or 24 months, covering more comprehensive checks and replacements (e.g., air filters, brake fluid).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus or DOT 5.1
Power Steering Fluid:
Generally integrated electric power steering, no traditional power steering fluid.
Coolant Capacity Example:
Approx. 7.0 Liters (with A/C)
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and rotors, suspension bushings, tires due to performance nature.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Occasional reports of hydraulic fluid leaks or motor issues with the vario-roof mechanism, requiring specialized attention. The manual would detail lubrication points and diagnostics.
Turbocharger Issues:
For turbo models (CGI), proper oil maintenance is crucial to prevent turbocharger wear. The manual will cover turbo-specific maintenance and troubleshooting.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
A2711800109 (for M271 engine, example)
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing premium sports cars and roadsters dating back to the 300 SL 'Gullwing' and SL roadster series.
R172 Introduction:
The R172 generation replaced the R171 and debuted in 2011 for the 2012 model year, bringing a fresh design and updated technology.
Production Period R172:
2011-2015 (facelift in 2015 for R172.2)
Manufacturing Plant:
Sindelfingen, Germany (primary)
Awards List:
While specific awards for the 2012 model might be niche, the SLK-Class generation typically garners positive reviews for its styling, driving dynamics, and comfort. Buyers often reference reputable automotive publications for reviews.
Consumer Reports Rating Trend:
Generally good reliability ratings for Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era, with specific owner experiences varying. The manual aids in proactive maintenance to ensure reliability.
