Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer / Roadster
Target Audience For Manual:
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129) owners, independent repair shops, performance enthusiasts
Manual Superiority:
Directly comparable to official Mercedes-Benz workshop manuals, offering factory-level accuracy and completeness
Digital Convenience:
Single, easy-to-use PDF, no more physical book flipping, print-on-demand pages
Information Density:
Contains everything needed for repair, service, and maintenance, from basic checks to complex diagnostics
Visual Aids:
Includes diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics for clear understanding
Primary Coverage:
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129) - All Models
Repair Scope:
A-Z Repairs, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Servicing
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, described as comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac
Engine Mechanical:
Engine Overhaul, Cylinder Head, Piston Rings, Crankshaft, Valves, Timing
Engine Management:
Engine Control System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control
Cooling And Lubrication:
Cooling System, Lubrication System, Oil Change, Coolant Specifications
Fuel And Exhaust:
Fuel Service Specifications, Intake and Exhaust Systems, Fuel Injection
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (service, repair, diagnostics), Manual Transmission (if applicable to specific sub-models covered)
Drivetrain:
Transfer Case (if applicable), Drive Shaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension And Steering:
Suspension System, Steering Column, Power Steering System
Brakes:
Brake Control System, Brake System Service, Parking Brake
Wheels And Tires:
Tire and Wheel Specifications, Mounting, Balancing
Body Exterior:
Engine Hood, Doors, Exterior Trim, Glass and Mirrors
Body Interior:
Interior Trim, Seats, Instrument Panel
Electrical Systems:
Electrical System Overview, Starting and Charging System, Lighting, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn
Climate Control:
Air Conditioning System
Safety Systems:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control
Wipers And Washers:
Wiper and Washer System
Body And Chassis:
Door Lock System
Network Communication:
Multiplex/CAN Communication
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation, System Diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Component Removal and Installation, Reassembly, Calibration
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive Electrical Schematics for all systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of required Mercedes-Benz specialized tools
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Content Style:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, and clear illustrations
Engine Variants Covered:
Likely covers V6 and V8 variants common in the 2002 R129 SL-Class, such as SL320 (M112 V6), SL500 (M113 V8), and potentially SL600 (M120 V12, though less common for 2002 model year).
Engine Displacement Examples:
3.2L (3199cc) for SL320, 5.0L (4966cc) for SL500
Horsepower Examples:
SL320: Approx. 221 hp @ 5600 rpm; SL500: Approx. 302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Examples:
SL320: Approx. 232 lb-ft @ 3000-4250 rpm; SL500: Approx. 339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SMPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS), Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil-Near-Plug (CNP) depending on specific engine variant.
Cooling Type:
Pressurized Liquid Cooling System
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 5G-TRONIC 722.6) for most R129 models in 2002.
Transmission Type Optional:
Manual transmission was not commonly offered on R129 models for this year.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, Sport and Comfort modes, Lock-up torque converter.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Approved ATF (e.g., Shell ATF 134, Pentosin ATF134, or equivalent specification MB 236.14)
Length:
Approx. 178.7 inches (4539 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.7 inches (1313 mm)
Curb Weight Examples:
SL320: Approx. 3970 lbs (1800 kg); SL500: Approx. 4070 lbs (1846 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 5000-5200 lbs (2270-2360 kg)
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA ratings for 2002 R129 are not readily available in a summarized format, but Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era were known for robust safety engineering.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR), Electronic Stability Program (ESP - likely standard on most 2002 models).
Passive Safety:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Side Airbags (in seats), Roll-over Bar (automatic deployment), Crumple Zones, Safety-Reinforced Body Structure.
Seat Belt Features:
Pre-tensioners and force limiters for front seat belts.
Infotainment System:
Factory-installed audio system (e.g., Bose premium sound system), potentially with CD changer. Navigation system (APS 30 or COMAND) may be optional on some models.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Speed Sensitive Steering (varied availability), Traction Control (ASR), Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era, typically analog phone integration if optioned. CAN bus communication for integrated vehicle electronics.
Convertible Top Operation:
Hydraulic-powered, fully automatic soft top with a hardtop also supplied. Includes sensors and control modules for operation and safety interlocks.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, based on Mercedes-Benz Flexible Service System (Assyst).
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Check owner's manual or service advisor; Mercedes-Benz generally recommends checks but often lifetime fluid with specific service intervals for severe use (e.g., 40,000-60,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Interval:
Typically every 2 years, regardless of mileage, to prevent moisture absorption.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB Approved Engine Oils meeting specifications such as MB 229.1, MB 229.3, or MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-30).
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent meeting MB 325.0 specification)
Common Issues R129:
Mas Air Flow (MAF) sensor failure, ignition coil failure, ABS/ASR warning lights (wheel speed sensors), convertible top hydraulic leaks, crankcase ventilation system clogging, serpentine belt pulley failures, head gasket leaks on older V8 engines (less common on M113).
Mercedes Benz Heritage:
Over a century of automotive innovation and luxury vehicle manufacturing, renowned for engineering excellence and safety.
R129 Generation:
The R129 SL-Class was produced from 1989 to 2001 (though model year 2002 vehicles were sold). It succeeded the R107 and was replaced by the R230.
Key R129 Innovations:
Advanced aerodynamics, integrated roll-over bar, multi-link rear suspension, and sophisticated electronic systems.
Production Years:
1989-2001 (for model years up to 2001, with 2002 being an extended model year for some markets).
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
Model Reputation:
The R129 SL-Class is widely recognized for its build quality, luxurious appointments, and strong performance, cementing Mercedes-Benz's reputation in the luxury roadster segment.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides significant cost savings and empowerment for owners undertaking maintenance and repairs, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of a classic luxury vehicle.
