Segment:
Compact Sports Car / Roadster
Positioning:
Positioned as a stylish, performance-oriented personal luxury coupe/roadster with European styling cues, leveraging a Mercedes-Benz platform.
Key Competitors:
Mazda MX-5 Miata, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4, Nissan 350Z Roadster
Design Philosophy:
Unique exterior styling, rear-wheel-drive platform, a blend of American and European design influences.
Target Audience:
Individuals seeking a distinctive, sporty, and stylish vehicle with a focus on driving enjoyment over practicality.
Interior Systems:
Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints
Exterior Systems:
Lights, Driver Controls
Powertrain Components:
Engine compartment overview, Engine oil, Fuel information, Air filter(s)
Operational Procedures:
Starting and operating the vehicle, Using climate controls, Operating entertainment systems, Adjusting seats and restraints, Locking/unlocking doors
Maintenance Procedures:
Checking engine oil level, Checking battery status, Locating air filter, Understanding refill capacities, Basic cleaning
Safety Procedures:
Understanding safety restraints, Reporting safety defects (U.S. only)
Depth:
Owner-level operation, basic checks, and specifications. Does not cover in-depth repair diagnostics or component replacement.
Engine Type:
3.2L V6 SOHC (M112)
Displacement:
3199 cc (3.2 Liters)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance)
Component Locations:
Manual details locations for dipsticks, fluid reservoirs, battery, and air filter.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not independently rated by NHTSA for 2005 model year. Manufacturer claims.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not independently rated by IIHS for 2005 model year. Manufacturer claims.
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, Side-impact airbags
Restraints:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners, Active headrests (depending on market/trim)
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio system (Bose).
Navigation:
Optional navigation system available on some trims.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard or optional auxiliary input jack for external audio devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/time recommendations, typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 6-12 months.
Air Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual; generally recommended every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for exact API service classification and viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 often recommended for European engines).
Coolant Type:
Refer to manual; typically a G-05 or similar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
Refer to manual; typically DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 quarts (7.1 Liters) with filter change (confirm in manual).
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 Liters) (confirm in manual).
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (bushings, ball joints), clutch wear (manual transmission), water pump leaks, convertible top mechanisms (Roadster).
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional issues with window regulators, central locking, and infotainment system glitches.
Cabin Air Filter Example:
Generic part numbers may vary, but common replacements might be found via reputable auto parts suppliers based on vehicle fitment (e.g., Mann-Filter CU 21 000).
Engine Oil Filter Example:
Genuine Chrysler/Mercedes part numbers will vary, aftermarket equivalents are available (e.g., Mahle OX 37/1D).
Brand Origin:
Chrysler is an American automotive manufacturer founded in 1925.
Platform Origin:
Based on the Mercedes-Benz R170 SLK platform.
Development Collaboration:
Developed in collaboration with DaimlerChrysler, leveraging Mercedes-Benz engineering and components.
Production Years:
2004-2008
Manufacturing Location:
Karmann factory in Osnabrück, Germany.
Performance Accolades:
While not a prolific award winner, it was recognized for its distinctive styling and European driving feel upon release.
Consumer Reports General:
Consumer Reports ratings varied, often citing average reliability but positive marks for handling and design.
