Production Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Internal Model Code:
R170
Vehicle Segment:
Compact Premium Sports Car / Roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops
Key Competitors:
BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster (early models), Audi TT (later models)
Unique Selling Proposition:
Vario-roof retractable hardtop, Mercedes-Benz build quality and refinement
Manual Value Proposition:
Authoritative technical resource for DIY maintenance and repair, saving on professional labor costs
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, engine management (ECU)
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, differentials
Braking Systems:
Brake hydraulic system, ABS, ESP, brake pad/disc replacement, caliper service
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering gear, power steering, wheel alignment
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body control module (BCM), fuse/relay locations
Bodywork Interior:
Body panels, doors, locks, windows, mirrors, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, seats
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control
Comfort Convenience:
Power accessories (seats, windows), central locking, remote keyless entry
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, brake servicing, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, component replacement, body repair procedures
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), scan tool usage, sensor testing
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, throttle body calibration, parking brake adjustment
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific Mercedes-Benz special tools
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams and specifications
Diagnostics Focus:
Advanced electrical and mechanical diagnostics
Engine Options:
2.0L Inline-4 (M111), 2.3L Supercharged Inline-4 (M111 EVO), 2.8L V6 (M112), 3.2L Supercharged V6 (M112 EVO)
Slk200 (Approx.):
136 hp @ 5500 rpm, 190 Nm @ 3700 rpm
Slk230 Kompressor (Approx.):
193 hp @ 5300 rpm, 270 Nm @ 2500 rpm (later 204 hp / 280 Nm)
Slk32 Amg (Approx.):
354 hp @ 6100 rpm, 450 Nm @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
ECU Type:
ME (Motronic) series, দাদার (ECU diagnostics covered)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual (available on some models)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed automatic (722.6 NAG) with TouchShift, 6-speed manual (later models)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, adaptive shift programs
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB spec 236.10 or 236.12 (e.g., ATF 45, Dexron III compatible variants)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7-8 liters (dry fill)
Crash Test Ratings:
While specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for early R170 might be limited, Mercedes-Benz safety standards were high. The manual details SRS systems.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) on many models, traction control
Passive Safety:
Driver and passenger airbags, side airbags, integrated roll-over protection bars
Infotainment Options:
Factory-installed radio/cassette/CD player, optional navigation systems (APS series), Bose sound system
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, ABS, ESP, rain-sensing wipers (optional)
Connectivity Features:
Optional teleaid system, remote keyless entry
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) system (ASSYST), typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plug replacement (e.g., 60,000 miles), transmission fluid flush (e.g., 40,000-60,000 miles), coolant flush (e.g., 30,000-40,000 miles)
Engine Oil Specification:
MB spec 229.3 or 229.5 (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 synthetic)
Coolant Specification:
MB spec 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, pink color)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB spec 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB spec 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent)
Common Issues:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failure, crank position sensor failure, vacuum leaks (M111 engines), O2 sensor failure, convertible top hydraulic leaks, window regulator issues, rust on wheel arches and sills.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Manual includes specific diagnostic trees for common problems and electrical faults.
Heritage Connection:
Follows Mercedes-Benz's lineage of roadsters and sporty convertibles (e.g., 190SL, 300SL, SL-Class)
Generation Introduction:
First generation R170 introduced in 1996, designed to be a more compact and accessible sports car.
Facelift Updates:
Facelift in 2000 brought updated styling, interior revisions, and improved engines (e.g., introduction of the SLK32 AMG).
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
