Market Segment:
Sports Coupe / Roadster
Competitors 2004:
BMW Z3/Z4, Mercedes-Benz SLK, Porsche Boxster, Audi TT
Design Basis:
Based on Mercedes-Benz R170 SLK platform
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, rear-wheel-drive performance vehicle with European engineering influence
Engine Mechanical:
Full coverage of engine components, disassembly, assembly, and diagnostics
Engine Management:
Includes fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, and engine control module (ECM) diagnostics
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and adjustment
Drivetrain:
Propeller shafts, rear axles, and front axle service and repair
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement
Steering:
Complete coverage of steering system components, including power steering
Brakes:
Brake system service, including disc brake repair, fluid replacement, and ABS diagnostics
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panel repair, collision damage assessment, and chassis frame integrity checks
Electrical Electronic:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component testing, and diagnostics
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system service and repair
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, fluid checks, and component replacements
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex faults
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all vehicle components
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Wiring Schematics:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Dealer-level technical information and detailed walk-throughs
Diagnostic Tools:
Information facilitates the use of OBD-II scanners and specialized diagnostic equipment.
Compatibility:
Fully compatible with all Windows Operating Systems and PDF-readable devices (smartphones, tablets)
Printability:
Print any page or section as needed
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Reader:
Adobe PDF Reader recommended for optimal display
Unzipping:
WinRAR or 7-Zip required if downloaded as a ZIP file
Ease Of Use:
Designed for ease of use with clear, step-by-step illustrated instructions.
Engine Type:
3.2L V6 SOHC Supercharged
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3000-4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) with supercharger
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
ECU:
Siemens/Continental MSE 3.0 (derived from Mercedes-Benz)
Type:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag 236)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (Mercedes-Benz NAG3)
Automatic Modes:
Comfort and Sport modes
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.20 Specification (e.g., Mobil 1 Synthetic Gear Oil 75W-85)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.12 Specification (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
4-Star Driver, 5-Star Passenger
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side-impact airbags
Rollover Protection:
Deployable rollover bars
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system optional on some trims
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Phone Integration:
Optional Uconnect hands-free communication system available on later models, but unlikely for 2004
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles (long-life platinum)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (API SM or higher)
Coolant Type:
Mopar/Mercedes-Benz OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Coolant (Blue or Purple, consult manual for specific type)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Supercharger belt wear, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, minor electrical gremlins, potential rust on earlier models (though less common due to German manufacturing).
Supercharger Maintenance:
Regular inspection of the supercharger belt tensioner and pulley bearings is advised.
Brand Origin:
American (founded 1925), part of DaimlerChrysler conglomerate during this era
Platform Development:
Developed in conjunction with Mercedes-Benz using the R170 SLK platform, manufactured by Karmann in Germany.
Product Line Strategy:
Designed to offer a European-style sports car under the Chrysler brand.
Production Years:
2003-2008
Manufacturing Location:
Osnabrück, Germany (by Karmann)
