🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SLK230

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

R170

Engine Code Primary:

M111.973

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2001 SLK230 represents Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact premium roadster segment, offering a blend of sporty performance and luxury. This manual targets owners and independent repair facilities seeking authentic, detailed technical information.

Competitors:

Competed with models like the BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster, and Audi TT of the era.

Unique Selling Points:

The R170 SLK series is renowned for its innovative 'vario-roof' retractable hardtop system, offering coupe-like security and convertible freedom. The SLK230 features a supercharged inline-four engine.

Value Proposition:

Provides official, factory-level diagnostic and repair data, crucial for maintaining the complex systems of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle, especially the sophisticated vario-roof.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic procedures for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK230.

Estimated Pages:

Extensive; specific count not provided in product description but typical for official service manuals is 1500+ pages.

Type:

Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital

File Format:

Likely PDF or proprietary software format, optimized for digital access.

Accessibility:

Instant download/access, searchable text functionality expected.

Licensing:

Officially Licensed

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.

Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (5G-TRONIC), driveline, differential, axles.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, ESP), wheels, tires.

Electrical:

Engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), lighting systems, instrument cluster, power accessories, convertible top system, audio system, SRS (airbag) system.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, convertible roof operation and mechanisms.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tune-ups, brake service, tire rotation.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component testing.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Disassembly Reassembly:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing all major components and sub-assemblies.

Depth:

Highly detailed, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.

Diagnostics Level:

Advanced diagnostics including scan tool procedures, oscilloscope waveform analysis, and sensor data interpretation.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Compatible with standard operating systems (Windows, macOS).

Printability:

Designed for clear printing of specific sections or full manual if desired.

Binding:

N/A (Software format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Supercharged Inline-4 Cylinder

Displacement:

2.3 Liters (2295 cc)

Engine Code:

M111.973 (E23 ML)

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves (4 valves per cylinder)

Horsepower Rated:

192 hp @ 5300 rpm

Torque Rated:

200 lb-ft (270 Nm) @ 2500 rpm

Aspiration:

Roots-type Supercharger with intercooler

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M4.3/ME)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

89.9 mm x 92.4 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Engine Mounts:

Hydraulic engine mounts (typical for vibration damping)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (5G-TRONIC)

Transmission Code:

722.6xx (specific variant)

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (less common on SLK230 in US market)

Shift Modes:

Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes available on automatic transmission.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

MB Approved Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., MB 236.10, MB 236.12 - consult specific vehicle service record or manual for precise MB spec).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7-8 Liters for a complete drain and refill (including torque converter).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

157.5 in (4000 mm)

Width:

67.7 in (1720 mm)

Height:

50.5 in (1283 mm)

Wheelbase:

81.5 in (2071 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3000 lbs (1360 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 3680 lbs (1670 kg)

Seating Capacity:

2

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

4-Star (driver), 4-Star (passenger) - Typical for 2001 vehicles.

IIHS Small Overlap Front:

N/A (Test not performed on vehicles of this era)

Traction Control:

ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) / Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

ESP (Electronic Stability Program)

Brakes:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags, Side airbags (optional/standard depending on market).

Rollover Protection:

Integrated roll-bar hoops behind seats (part of the structural design).

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning front seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard Mercedes-Benz Audio 10 or Audio 30 APS (with optional navigation), likely with CD player and AM/FM radio. Cassette player was also common.

Navigation:

Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) system available on higher trims or as an option.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Bluetooth:

N/A for factory-fitted systems of this era; aftermarket solutions available.

Convertible Top:

Electro-hydraulic Vario-Roof system with push-button operation, a key technological feature of the SLK.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil.

Major Service Interval:

Refer to the 'Service A', 'Service B', etc., schedules outlined in the owner's manual. Typically around 30,000 miles for more comprehensive checks.

Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (MB 229.5 specification) or SAE 5W-40 Synthetic (MB 229.3 specification). Consult manual for specific engine variants and climate considerations.

Coolant:

Mercedes-Benz Coolant/Antifreeze (e.g., MB 325.0 or MB 326.0) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Plus (ISO 4925 Class 6) or MB Approved specification.

Power Steering Fluid:

MB Approved Power Steering Fluid (e.g., MB 343.0).

Common Problems:

Vario-roof hydraulic leaks, O-ring seal failures in the roof system, mass air flow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil failures, electronic module failures (e.g., SAM unit), supercharger belt wear, door lock actuator failures.

Oil Filter Example:

Example: Mann-Filter HU716/2X, Mahle KL133 (Specific part numbers vary by manufacturer; manual will list OEM numbers).

Air Filter Example:

Example: Mann-Filter C35179/1, Mahle LX459 (Specific part numbers vary by manufacturer; manual will list OEM numbers).

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury vehicles. The SLK line continues this tradition with innovative technology and premium build quality.

First Generation:

The R170 SLK was introduced in 1996, pioneering the concept of a compact roadster with a retractable hardtop, which Mercedes-Benz branded the 'Vario-Roof'.

Facelift:

The 2001 model year received a significant facelift, introducing revised bumpers, updated headlights and taillights, new wheel designs, and interior enhancements.

Production Years:

R170 SLK production: 1996 - 2004.

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Received:

The R170 SLK series received generally positive reviews for its innovative roof and driving dynamics. Specific awards for the 2001 SLK230 may include various 'Best Roadster' or 'Best Convertible' accolades from automotive publications of the time.

Consumer Reports Rating:

Consumer Reports ratings from that era would need to be consulted; however, Mercedes-Benz vehicles generally scored well in predicted reliability for their class, though repairs could be costly.

Safety Certifications:

Met all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for the 2001 model year.