🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL500

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

R129

Engine Code:

M119.982

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL500 was positioned as a premier luxury grand tourer, emphasizing comfort, performance, and advanced technology for its era. This manual targets owners and professional technicians seeking detailed, accurate repair information for this high-end vehicle.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with other high-end roadsters and coupes of the late 1990s, such as the Porsche 911 (996 generation), BMW 8 Series (E31), and Jaguar XJS. The SL500 offered a unique blend of V8 power, sophisticated comfort features, and the renowned Mercedes-Benz build quality.

Key Features:

Officially licensed, comprehensive coverage, digital format for quick access, detailed technical information, diagrams, and troubleshooting guides specific to the R129 SL500.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL500.

Page Count:

Digital (exact page count not specified in product info, but typical for comprehensive service manuals).

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (digital download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (M119), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain, Transmission (5-speed automatic 5G-TRONIC), Brakes (ABS), Suspension (Active Suspension), Steering, Electrical System, Climate Control (Klimatronic), Body & Chassis, Convertible Top Mechanism, Safety Systems (SRS Airbags), Diagnostics (OBD-II).

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component removal and installation, adjustments, rebuilding procedures, wiring diagrams, technical specifications, torque values, special tool requirements, lubrication, fluid changes, brake bleeding, suspension alignment, engine tune-up, transmission service, electrical system repairs, body panel repair, convertible top adjustments.

Technical Depth:

Expert-level, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complex engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system troubleshooting, and bodywork repairs. Includes diagnostic procedures and fault code interpretation.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely a searchable PDF or proprietary software format for ease of navigation and searching.

Print Quality:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text, suitable for printing individual pages.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

5.0L (4973cc) SOHC 32-valve V8 (M119.982)

Horsepower:

Approximately 302 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 339 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm

Fuel System:

Bosch Motronic M1.3 Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF).

Engine Management:

Sequential fuel injection, distributorless ignition (HWA), electronic throttle control (drive-by-wire was not yet standard on this model).

Bore X Stroke:

96.5 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')

Optional:

None for SL500 in 1999.

Features:

Electronic control, torque converter lock-up clutch, Comfort/Sport modes.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Specification 236.10 (e.g., Mobil ATF 134 or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 9.5 liters (dry fill, varies with torque converter drain).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4500 mm (177.2 in)

Width:

1812 mm (71.3 in)

Height:

1306 mm (51.4 in)

Wheelbase:

2630 mm (103.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1800 kg (3968 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 2150 kg (4740 lbs)

Cargo Volume:

170 liters (6.0 cu ft) with hardtop removed, variable with soft top stored.

Standard Wheel Size:

17 x 8.0 inches (Alloy)

Standard Tire Size:

225/45R17 Front, 245/40R17 Rear

Bolt Pattern:

5x112mm

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

While specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this exact vintage are not readily available in modern databases, the R129 platform was engineered with high safety standards for its time, featuring a robust chassis and advanced passive safety systems.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP - known as ASR/ETS or ESP depending on exact system designation), Traction Control System (TCS).

Passive Features:

Dual front airbags, side impact protection beams, automatic roll-bar deployment (pop-up roll bar system), reinforced A-pillars, crumple zones.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Bose premium audio system, optional CD changer, Becker brand head unit with cassette player and radio, analog climate control (Klimatronic).

Driver Assistance:

ABS, Traction Control, Cruise Control. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or its predecessors.

Connectivity:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily for on-board diagnostics via OBD-II port for engine management and chassis control modules.

Convenience Features:

Power-adjustable seats with memory, heated seats, power windows, power mirrors, automatic climate control, keyless entry (optional), cruise control, heated rear window, xenon headlamps (optional/later feature).

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Based on the Service Indicator System (Assyst). Major service typically every 2 years or 15,000-20,000 miles (30,000 km), with minor services (oil change, filter) more frequent. Specific intervals for transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, etc., are detailed in the manual.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, MB Specification 229.5.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 liters (with filter).

Coolant Type:

Antifreeze/coolant concentrate, MB Specification 325.0 (typically a silicate-based, OAT coolant).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (or equivalent high-performance DOT 4).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MB Specification 236.3 (Dexron II or equivalent).

Differential Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90, MB Specification 235.7 (or equivalent synthetic gear oil).

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Water with Mercedes-Benz approved washer fluid additive.

Known Issues:

Can include: Biodegradable wiring harness insulation deterioration, 'O-ring' seal failures in the transmission (especially the 5G-TRONIC), sagging headliner in convertible top, vacuum line leaks affecting climate control and door locks, MAF sensor issues, occasional ABC (Active Body Control) suspension hydraulic leaks (though SL500 typically used conventional suspension in 1999, but later models had ABC), wear on suspension bushings, SRS warning lamp illumination due to seat occupancy sensor or module issues.

Spark Plug Part Number:

Typically Champion RC10MC (or equivalent NGK/Bosch platinum/iridium plugs for M119).

Air Filter Part Number:

Commonly Mann-Filter C35125/1 or equivalent.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Commonly Mann-Filter HU816x or equivalent.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and performance, particularly with its 'SL' (Super Leicht) designation, which has represented the pinnacle of its roadster offerings since the 1950s.

Model Evolution:

The R129 SL-Class, introduced in 1989, was a significant evolution from the R107. It featured a more modern design, advanced safety features like the automatic roll bar, and technological innovations. The 1999 model year represents a later stage of the R129 lifecycle, with various refinements and updates.

Production Years:

R129 SL-Class produced from 1989 to 2001. The SL500 specifically was a core model within this generation.

Production Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1999 model might not be heavily documented, the R129 SL-Class as a whole was consistently recognized for its engineering, design, and luxury throughout its production run. It was a benchmark in the GT segment.

Ratings:

Generally received high marks from automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, comfort, and build quality. Consistently ranked as one of the premier luxury convertibles of its era.

Certifications:

Officially Licensed Product - signifies authenticity and direct endorsement from Mercedes-Benz, ensuring accuracy and completeness for repair purposes.