🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SLK-Class

Generation Name:

R170

Chassis Code:

R170

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact luxury roadster, often referred to as a 'sports car' or 'lifestyle vehicle'

Key Competitors:

BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster, Audi TT, Chevrolet Corvette (early models)

Signature Feature:

Vario-Roof retractable hardtop system

Design Philosophy:

Compact, sporty styling with Mercedes-Benz luxury and engineering

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

Estimated Pages:

Over 500

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, emissions

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting, charging, engine control module (ECM), sensors, wiring diagrams

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 722.6 '5G-Tronic') overhaul, service, diagnostics, electro-hydraulic control

Drivetrain:

Rear axle, driveshaft, CV joints, limited-slip differential (if applicable)

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, ESP, brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, column lock

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism, chassis repair, corrosion protection

Electrical System:

Lighting system, power windows, mirrors, central locking, interior electronics, fuses, relays, battery, starting, charging

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, controls

Comfort Systems:

Power seats, seat heaters, cruise control, infotainment system (basic diagnostics)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems

Diagnostics:

Diagnosis of mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis)

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Complete factory-level diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF document, often with hyperlinked table of contents for easy navigation

Quality:

High-resolution, clear diagrams and text

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.0L Inline-4 (SLK 200 Kompressor), 2.3L Supercharged Inline-4 (SLK 230 Kompressor), 3.2L V6 (SLK 320, SLK 32 AMG)

Slk 230 Kompressor Hp:

192 hp @ 5300 rpm

Slk 230 Kompressor Torque:

200 lb-ft @ 2500-4800 rpm

Slk 32 Amg Hp:

354 hp @ 6100 rpm

Slk 32 Amg Torque:

332 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

Induction:

Supercharged (Kompressor models), Naturally Aspirated (SLK 320)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (earlier models, some markets), 5-speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-Tronic')

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Automatic (standard on most models from mid-generation onwards)

Automatic Features:

Touchshift (manual shifting capability), Electronic control unit

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 157.5 inches (4000 mm)

Width:

Approx. 68.9 inches (1750 mm)

Height:

Approx. 50.5 inches (1283 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 82.6 inches (2100 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2900-3200 lbs (1315-1450 kg), varies by engine and options

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA frontal impact ratings for driver and passenger were generally good for its era.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or Acceleration Skid Control (ASR)

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger airbags, side-impact airbags, roll-over protection system (pop-up bars)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) optional on later models, basic audio systems with CD player on earlier models.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional parktronic parking assist.

Connectivity Features:

Pre-wiring for optional CD changer, mobile phone integration (e.g., UHI interface).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine)

Major Service Interval:

Service A and Service B intervals (indicated by the car's service computer) at varying mileage/time intervals.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.1, 229.3, or 229.5 compliant synthetic oil (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 depending on climate and engine)

Coolant Specification:

MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Transmission Fluid Specification:

MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 for 722.6 automatic transmission

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Common Issues:

Vario-Roof hydraulic leaks, actuator failures, ignition coil failure, MAF sensor issues, crank position sensor failure, rust on rear fender wells.

Maintenance Recommendations:

Regular inspection of Vario-Roof seals, battery terminal cleaning, checking for oil leaks, proactive replacement of wear items like serpentine belts and tensioners.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety

R170 Introduction:

Introduced in 1996, designed to fill a niche below the SL-Class

Facelift:

Minor facelift occurred around 1999/2000 with styling updates and engine revisions.

Performance Variants:

SLK 32 AMG variant introduced in 2001, featuring a supercharged V6

Production Years:

1996-2004

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards are less documented for this model compared to mainstream vehicles, it was well-regarded for its innovation with the Vario-Roof and its blend of sportiness and everyday usability in the luxury roadster segment.