Positioning:
The 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R129) was the pinnacle of luxury grand touring convertibles for its era, known for its sophisticated engineering and comfort.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Porsche 911 Targa, BMW 8 Series convertible, and high-end Jaguar models.
Features:
Powerful V8 engine, retractable hardtop (optional), advanced safety features for its time, luxurious interior, and refined ride quality.
Value Proposition:
Essential for owners and independent technicians seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair this complex luxury vehicle, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Engine:
5.0L V8 (M119.970), including diagnostics, overhaul, timing, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions
Transmission:
5-speed automatic (722.6 'NAG1'), including operation, diagnostics, overhaul, fluid service
Suspension:
Hydropneumatic self-leveling rear suspension, front independent suspension, steering system, driveline components
Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Traction System (ETS), brake component replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, power accessories, instrument cluster, climate control, power top system, immobilizer
Body:
Body construction, panels, doors, convertible top mechanism, bumpers, trim, interior components
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control system operation, diagnostics, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core)
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic and electrical system for the retractable hardtop, troubleshooting and repair of the folding mechanism
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification and resolution for all major systems
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine, transmission, suspension, brake, and electrical component removal, repair, and reinstallation
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, sensor testing, module programming (where applicable for the era)
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Mercedes-Benz tools required for specific repair procedures
Depth:
Expert Level: Covers basic maintenance through complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and hydraulic system repairs.
Type:
5-speed Automatic (722.6 'NAG1')
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios, typically designed for smooth acceleration and highway cruising.
Features:
Electronic control, torque converter lock-up, multiple driving modes (e.g., Economy, Sport).
Fluid Type:
MB Spec 236.10 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), e.g., Mobil ATF 134 or equivalent.
Crash Test Ratings:
While specific ratings for 1996 may not be readily available in modern formats, the R129 platform was engineered with robust safety structures.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) influence.
Ets:
Standard Electronic Traction System (ETS) for improved grip.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags, integrated side airbags (in seat bolsters).
Rollover Protection:
Automatic pop-up roll bar system, deployable in milliseconds during a potential rollover event.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner seatbelts with force limiters.
Audio System:
Premium sound system (e.g., Bose or Becker), often with cassette and AM/FM radio. CD changer optional.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings.
Original Connectivity:
Limited to analog communication; may have provisions for an aftermarket car phone installation.
Seat Adjustment:
10-way or 12-way power adjustable seats with memory function for driver and passenger.
Power Features:
Power windows, mirrors, door locks, steering column adjustment, and convertible top operation.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific 'A' or 'B' service intervals).
Transmission Service:
Intervals can vary; recommended at 40,000-60,000 miles for fluid and filter change. Consult manual for precise recommendation.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic engine oil meeting MB Specification 229.5 or 229.3.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz specified silicate-free antifreeze/coolant (e.g., blue coolant), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Spec 236.3 Hydraulic Fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Known Issues:
Varying degrees of issues may include aging wiring harnesses, failing window regulators, leaking hydraulic lines for the convertible top, MAF sensor issues, and distributor o-ring leaks. The manual will detail diagnostics for these.
Oil Filter:
e.g., Bosch 3323, Mann-Filter HU 89, Mercedes-Benz A1191800009 (verify with VIN)
Air Filter:
e.g., Bosch 1457433717, Mann-Filter C34130/1 (verify with VIN)
Cabin Filter:
e.g., Mann-Filter CU 2217 (verify with VIN)
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for building luxurious and technically advanced automobiles, particularly in the grand tourer segment.
R129 Development:
The R129 SL-Class replaced the R107 and was introduced in 1989, featuring significant advancements in safety, aerodynamics, and technology. The 1996 model year represents a mature iteration of this platform.
Production Period:
R129 SL-Class produced from 1989 to 2001. The 1996 SL500 is part of the early-to-mid production run.
Assembly Plant:
Bremen, Germany
