Segment:
Compact Luxury Sports Roadster
Competitors:
BMW Z4, Audi TT, Porsche Boxster, Chevrolet Corvette (lower trims)
Features:
Retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof), rear-wheel drive, powerful V6 engine, premium interior, advanced safety features
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling, emissions control
Transmission:
7G-TRONIC automatic transmission (722.3 family), manual transmission (if applicable to SLK350 variant), torque converter, transmission control module
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, ESP, SBC), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, audio system, climate control, CAN bus communication, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fuse and relay locations
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, seats, convertible hardtop mechanism (Vario-Roof), doors, windows, locks
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt inspections, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including overhaul and replacement procedures
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis), component testing, sensor readings
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and programming procedures
Transmission Type:
7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Manual Transmission:
Not typically offered for the SLK350 in this model year (check specific market variants)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Spec 236.14 (e.g., Mobil ATF 134, Shell ATF 134)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for similar model years and platforms)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for similar model years and platforms)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Bas:
Standard Brake Assist System (BAS)
Traction Control:
Standard Acceleration Skid Control (ASR)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags, pop-up rollover bars
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters
Infotainment System:
Optional COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation System) with 6.5-inch display, CD changer, SiriusXM Satellite Radio preparation.
Audio System:
Harman Kardon surround sound system (optional)
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking assist (optional), rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling (optional, depending on COMAND version), SiriusXM radio.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable (based on 'AD-Service' indicator), typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to the 'Service A' and 'Service B' schedules detailed in the owner's manual and covered within this repair manual.
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol SLX Professional 0W-40)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
MB Spec 325.0 / 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate, e.g., Mercedes-Benz Genuine Coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0)
Common Issues:
Vario-Roof hydraulic leaks and pump failures, O2 sensor failures, ignition coil failures, mass air flow sensor issues, transmission conductor plate issues, early M272 engine balance shaft wear (though less common on later production models within the R171's run).
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, renowned for luxury, engineering, and safety.
Model Lineage:
The SLK-Class (R170, R171, R172) is Mercedes-Benz's compact roadster, evolving from the SLK230 Kompressor to more powerful V6 and V8 variants. The R171 generation, introduced in 2004, refined the styling and powertrain options.
Production Period:
The R171 generation was produced from 2004 to 2011.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
