Market Position:
The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Sport represented the pinnacle of luxury, performance, and advanced technology in the grand touring convertible segment. It competed directly with high-end roadsters and coupes from marques like Porsche (911 Cabriolet), Jaguar (XK Convertible), and BMW (6 Series Convertible).
Competitive Analysis:
The R230 SL-Class, particularly the V8-powered SL500, offered a compelling blend of potent V8 performance, a sophisticated retractable hardtop (Varioroof), and cutting-edge technology, setting it apart from more driver-focused sports cars by emphasizing comfort and luxury for grand touring.
Key Features:
Powerful V8 engine, Retractable Hardtop (Varioroof), Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, Bi-Xenon headlights, COMAND infotainment system, premium leather interior, advanced safety features.
Systems Covered:
Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems (COMAND, Audio), Climate Controls (THERMOTRONIC), Lighting Systems (Headlights, Interior Lights), Driver Controls (Steering Wheel Functions, Pedals), Locks and Security (Remote Keyless Entry, Alarm), Seating and Safety Restraints (Seats, Seatbelts, Airbags, ISOFIX), Driving Operation, Customer Assistance, Cleaning Procedures, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel System, Air Filter, Accessories.
Procedures Included:
Operation of vehicle features, basic maintenance, troubleshooting common indicators, fluid checks, tire pressure checks, cleaning instructions, security system operation, seat adjustment, accessory usage, reporting safety defects (U.S. only).
Technical Depth:
Covers operational details, basic maintenance checks, fluid specifications, and general troubleshooting. Does not include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic information typically found in a Service Manual.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4966 cc (5.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Sequential)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
80 Liters (21.1 US Gallons)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic with Touchshift
Gear Ratios:
First: 3.59, Second: 2.19, Third: 1.41, Fourth: 1.00, Fifth: 0.83, Reverse: 3.17
Transmission Features:
Driver-selectable modes (Comfort/Sport), manual shifting via steering wheel buttons or gear selector (Touchshift).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Specification 236.14 (or equivalent Dexterity II)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
Not Specifiable (Vehicle not tested under current NHTSA protocols for this year)
IIHS Rating:
Good (for its time, based on available data)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Bi-Xenon Headlights with Adaptive Light Control.
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, Side airbags, Knee airbags, Rollover protection system (pop-up roll bars), Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters, ISOFIX child seat anchors (rear seats).
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Entertainment System) with 6.5-inch color display.
Audio System:
Bose Premium Sound System (standard on SL500 Sport) with CD player and FM/AM radio.
Navigation:
Optional DVD-based navigation system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC - optional), Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC - optional).
Connectivity Features:
Voice control (LINGUATRONIC - optional), CD changer (optional), Telephone pre-wiring (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (or as indicated by the Flexible Service System - ASSYST).
Major Service Interval:
Typically around 30,000 miles and 60,000 miles, involving inspection of various systems, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, spark plugs, and transmission service.
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Antifreeze/Coolant (MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 - typically a silicate-free, blue/green formula mixed 50/50 with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (or MB Specification 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB Specification 343.0 (or equivalent Pentosin CHF 11 S)
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Washer Fluid Additive or equivalent (distilled water with a washer fluid concentrate).
Common Issues:
ABC suspension leaks and pump failures, Varioroof hydraulic system issues (leaks, pump, cylinder failures), Crankshaft position sensor failure (leading to stalling), Ignition coil failure, Electronic control unit (ECU) issues, SAM unit corrosion, Seat heater element failure, Door lock actuator failure.
Engine Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter HU821x, Mahle OX167/1D, Bosch 72021 (Verify for specific VIN)
Air Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter C35156/2, Mahle LX1222 (Verify for specific VIN)
Cabin Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter CU2722, Mahle LAE427 (Verify for specific VIN)
Spark Plug Part Number:
e.g., NGK PFR5G-11A (Platinum or Iridium recommended, verify for specific VIN)
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long and storied history of producing luxurious and technologically advanced automobiles, particularly known for its pioneering work in safety and engineering. The 'SL' designation, standing for 'Sport Leicht' (Sport Light), dates back to the iconic 300SL Gullwing of the 1950s, embodying performance and style.
Model Evolution:
The R230 generation of the SL-Class, introduced in 2002 for the 2003 model year, represented a significant departure from its predecessor (R129). It featured a new retractable hardtop, advanced aluminum construction for weight savings, and the introduction of Active Body Control (ABC) for superior ride and handling. The SL500 was the volume V8 model in the lineup.
Production Years R230:
2002-2011
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
