🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL-Class

Model Code:

R230

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

R230

Platform Code:

R230

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer Convertible

Target Audience:

High-net-worth individuals seeking performance, comfort, and luxury

Key Competitors:

BMW 6 Series Convertible, Jaguar XK Convertible, Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet

Features:

Retractable hardtop (Vario-roof), advanced suspension systems (ABC), powerful V8 and V12 engines, luxurious interior, cutting-edge technology

Manual Advantage:

Provides access to the same level of detail and accuracy as dealership technicians, enabling complex DIY repairs and informed maintenance decisions.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230)

Vehicle Specificity:

Vehicle-specific, not generic repair information

User Type:

Designed for professional dealership technicians

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (exact count not provided, typical for comprehensive factory manuals, likely 1000+ pages)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Digital (PDF or similar, common for modern service manuals for searchability and ease of use)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain (rear-wheel drive)

Chassis:

Suspension (Active Body Control - ABC, Airmatic), steering system, braking system (including ABS, ESP), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Electrical system, battery, charging system, starter, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), infotainment system, navigation, communication systems, sensors, actuators, fuse boxes, wiring diagrams

Body:

Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, seats, climate control system (HVAC)

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures, fault finding, component testing, use of diagnostic equipment (e.g., STAR diagnosis)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, brake pad replacement, tire rotation, battery maintenance

Repair:

Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component repair, convertible top system repair

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, mechanical component diagnostics

Specifications:

Torque specifications, tightening sequences, diagnostic data, performance benchmarks

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic routine maintenance to complex electrical diagnostics and mechanical component overhaul

Detail Level:

Detailed illustrations, diagrams, service data, and procedures as used by factory-trained technicians

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Likely PDF (searchable, printable, high-resolution)

Quality:

High quality, clear diagrams and text (if printed version)

Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Example:

M272 (for SL350), M273 (for SL500/SL550)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6 and V8 (depending on specific SL model variant within the R230 generation for 2009)

Displacement Sl350:

3.5 Liters

Horsepower Sl350:

268 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque Sl350:

258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm (approx.)

Displacement Sl550:

5.5 Liters

Horsepower Sl550:

382 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque Sl550:

391 lb-ft @ 2800-4000 rpm (approx.)

0 60 Mph Sl350:

Approx. 6.5 seconds

0 60 Mph Sl550:

Approx. 4.8 seconds

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

7-speed Automatic with TouchShift (7G-TRONIC)

Availability:

Not applicable for 2009 model year as standard on all variants listed.

Features:

Electronic control, manual shifting mode (TouchShift), adaptive shifting programs

Fluid Type:

MB Transmission Fluid (ATF) 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

171.3 inches

Width:

73.2 inches

Height:

52.5 inches

Wheelbase:

100.6 inches

Curb Weight Sl350:

Approx. 4100 lbs

Curb Weight Sl550:

Approx. 4200 lbs

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, consult vehicle VIN

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

5-Star (as a general benchmark for the R230 generation)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Likely received good ratings, specific 'Top Safety Pick' status may vary by year and testing criteria.

Electronic Stability Program:

Standard (ESP - Electronic Stability Program)

Antilock Braking System:

Standard (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, knee airbags (driver), rollover protection system (automatic deployment)

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pretensioners and belt force limiters

Convertible Top Safety:

Integrated rollover protection bars behind the seats

💡 Technology Features

System Name:

COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation)

Features:

Navigation system, CD/DVD player, AM/FM radio, integrated hands-free calling (Bluetooth), optional Harman Kardon sound system

Features:

Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC), Bi-Xenon Headlights with Active Curve Illumination, Parktronic parking assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Bluetooth:

Standard for hands-free calling, limited media streaming capabilities on early systems.

Keyless Go:

Optional keyless entry and ignition system

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (based on Mercedes-Benz Flexible Service System - FSS)

Major Service A:

Usually around 10,000 miles or 1 year (may include oil and filter change, tire rotation, inspection of various components)

Major Service B:

Usually around 20,000 miles or 2 years (includes Service A items plus cabin filter replacement, brake fluid flush, spark plug replacement at higher intervals)

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years (DOT 4)

Engine Oil Spec Sl350:

MB 229.5 or 229.51 (SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic)

Engine Oil Spec Sl550:

MB 229.5 or 229.51 (SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic)

Coolant:

Mercedes-Benz Coolant/Antifreeze (e.g., MB 325.0, 325.5, or 326.0) mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (MB Spec 343.0)

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Water with Mercedes-Benz Approved Washer Fluid Concentrate

Active Body Control Abc:

Hydraulic leaks, pump failures, strut leaks, ABC control module issues, sensor failures. Fluid changes and system maintenance are critical.

Convertible Top Mechanism:

Hydraulic pump leaks, cylinder seal failures, sensor issues, wiring harness problems, micro-switch failures affecting operation. Regular lubrication and fluid checks are essential.

Ignition Coils:

Can be prone to failure, leading to misfires and rough running. Replacement is usually straightforward.

O2 Sensors:

Can fail over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions. Diagnostic codes will usually indicate failure.

Electronically Controlled Suspension Components:

Sensors, control modules, and actuators for the active suspension can fail, leading to ride height or damping issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long and storied history of producing luxurious and technologically advanced grand tourers, dating back to models like the 300 SL "Gullwing" and its roadster variant.

R230 Generation Start:

Introduced for the 2003 model year, the R230 represented a significant technological leap with its retractable hardtop and advanced chassis systems.

R230 Facelifts:

The R230 underwent significant updates, including a major facelift for the 2009 model year, which included revised styling, powertrain updates (e.g., new engines and transmissions), and technology enhancements.

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award Type:

The SL-Class consistently receives recognition for its luxury, performance, and engineering in automotive publications. Specific awards for the 2009 model year would be detailed in automotive reviews of the time.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Generally high satisfaction ratings for luxury and build quality, though complex systems can sometimes lead to higher maintenance costs.