🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL500

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

R230

Engine Code:

113.967

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R230 generation) represents the pinnacle of German luxury grand touring convertibles, blending high performance with sophisticated technology and unparalleled comfort. It competed directly with other luxury roadsters like the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, BMW 6 Series Convertible, and Jaguar XK.

Competitive Analysis:

The SL500 of this era offered a potent V8 engine, advanced ABC (Active Body Control) suspension, and a retractable hardtop for year-round usability. Its emphasis was on effortless cruising and luxurious experience, differentiating it from more track-focused competitors.

Key Features:

Retractable vario-roof, Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, powerful V8 engine, premium interior materials, advanced safety features, and a suite of electronic comfort and convenience systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete service and repair coverage for the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500

Page Count:

N/A (Software - Digital)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable digital file)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Electrical System (including BCM, SAM modules), HVAC, Body Control Modules, Bodywork, Interior, Convertible Roof System, Infotainment, SRS (Airbag) System, Diagnostics

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled service, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component testing, removal and installation procedures, repair procedures, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), specifications, torque values, fluid capacities, special tool recommendations

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complex engine and transmission diagnostics and rebuild procedures. Includes detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting guides for all electronic modules.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software format or PDF collection

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital - High resolution for on-screen viewing)

Binding Type:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement:

5.0 Liters (4966 cc)

Engine Configuration:

V8, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft per bank), 3 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust), Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI), Electronic Ignition

Horsepower:

302 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

339 lb-ft @ 2700-4250 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic ME 2.8 Electronic Fuel Injection

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic with TouchShift

Transmission Features:

Selectable manual shifting (TouchShift), Electronic control unit, Torque converter lock-up

📐 Dimensions

Length:

171.5 inches (4356 mm)

Width:

73.0 inches (1854 mm)

Height:

51.5 inches (1308 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.8 inches (2585 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3950 lbs (1790 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4872 lbs (2210 kg)

Cargo Volume Trunk With Roof Up:

12.4 cubic feet (350 liters)

Cargo Volume Trunk With Roof Down:

4.2 cubic feet (120 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA/IIHS in the same manner as modern vehicles. However, equipped with advanced safety systems for its time.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, Side airbags, Knee airbags (driver), Roll-over protection system (pop-up bars), Seatbelt pre-tensioners, Active head restraints

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated CD player, AM/FM radio, and optional navigation. Features a color display and physical control knob/buttons.

Audio System:

Bose premium audio system with amplifier and multiple speakers

Driver Assistance Features:

Adaptive cruise control (Distronic), Parktronic parking assist system, Bi-Xenon headlights with cornering light function.

Connectivity Features:

Voice control system (LINGUATRONIC), optional Bluetooth hands-free communication.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable; indicated by the 'Service A' or 'Service B' system, typically around 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check specific vehicle reminder.

Major Service Intervals:

Refer to the 'Service B' schedule and beyond (e.g., spark plug replacement around 60,000 miles, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement every 2 years).

Engine Oil Type:

MB Approved Synthetic SAE 0W-40 (e.g., Mobil 1 Formula M or equivalent per MB-Spec 229.5)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

MB Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or G48 based, typically a blue or green phosphate-free silicate-containing coolant)

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Approved ATF (e.g., ATF 3403-M 115 or equivalent per MB-Spec 236.10/236.12 for the 5G-Tronic transmission)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0 or equivalent)

Known Issues:

ABC suspension hydraulic leaks (struts, lines), EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) failure, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) pump/accumulator issues (though less common on 2006 models compared to earlier years), convertible top hydraulic cylinder leaks or fabric wear, catalytic converter failure, mass airflow sensor issues, interior electronic module failures (e.g., SAM units).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz boasts a long and distinguished history in automotive engineering, particularly in luxury and performance vehicles. The 'SL' designation (Sport Leicht) has been synonymous with sophisticated, open-top motoring for decades, starting with the iconic 300 SL 'Gullwing'.

Model Evolution:

The R230 generation of the SL-Class, introduced for the 2003 model year, represented a significant technological leap from its R129 predecessor. It featured the innovative vario-roof (a retractable hardtop) and the groundbreaking Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system.

Production Years R230:

2003-2011

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2006 SL500 are not widely publicized as a single model year, the R230 generation as a whole received acclaim for its technological advancements, particularly its ABC suspension and vario-roof system, and its blend of performance and luxury.