🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL-Class

Model Variant:

SL65 AMG

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

R230

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

High-performance luxury grand tourer convertible.

Primary Competitors:

Aston Martin DB9 Volante, Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano (coupe, but comparable performance), Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet.

Vehicle Positioning:

Represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering and luxury in the roadster segment, focusing on extreme performance delivered in a refined package.

Target Demographic:

Affluent individuals seeking unparalleled performance, luxurious comfort, and sophisticated styling in a convertible.

Trim Focus:

Specifically covers the SL65 AMG, denoting the highest performance variant.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Content Overview:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications.

Estimated Page Count:

Refer to original factory manual (typically 300-500 pages)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.

Chassis Systems:

Brakes, suspension, steering, wheels, tires.

Electrical Systems:

Lighting controls, instrument cluster functions, battery care, infotainment system basics, climate control operation.

Interior Features:

Seating adjustments, safety restraint systems (seat belts, airbags), interior lighting, climate control operation.

Safety And Security:

Door locks, central locking, anti-theft system, keyless entry, airbag system operation, child seat installation.

Basic Maintenance:

Checking and topping up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid; tire pressure checks; basic cleaning procedures.

Driving Operations:

Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, using cruise control, operating infotainment and climate systems, parking procedures.

Safety Procedures:

Proper use of seat belts, understanding airbag deployment, child seat installation guidelines.

Troubleshooting Guidance:

Explanation of warning lights and indicators on the instrument cluster.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive owner-level information focusing on operation, basic maintenance, safety, and understanding vehicle features. Does not include detailed repair or diagnostic procedures typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Print Quality Notes:

Digital format, quality dependent on original factory scan. Optimized for digital viewing and potentially printing.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital File)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital File)

Required Software:

PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader)

Compatible Devices:

Any device capable of reading PDF files (PC, Mac, Tablet, Smartphone)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

6.0L V12 Biturbo

Engine Code:

M275

Horsepower:

604 hp @ 4,200-5,400 rpm (DIN)

Torque:

738 lb-ft (1000 Nm) @ 2,200-4,200 rpm (electronically limited to 871 lb-ft or 1180 Nm)

Fuel Induction:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Layout:

Front-mounted, longitudinal

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Recommended Fuel Octane:

Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS Automatic

Optional Transmissions:

None

Transmission Features:

Includes manual shifting mode (with paddle shifters), Comfort, Sport, and Manual driving modes.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

178.9 inches (4,544 mm)

Width:

73.0 inches (1,854 mm)

Height:

51.8 inches (1,316 mm)

Wheelbase:

102.1 inches (2,593 mm)

Curb Weight:

4,497 lbs (2,039 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

5,556 lbs (2,519 kg)

Trunk Capacity Hardtop Up:

13.5 cu ft (382 L)

Trunk Capacity Hardtop Down:

9.5 cu ft (269 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific AMG variant for all parameters, but generally excellent for its class.

Braking System:

AMG High-Performance Braking System (Compound Brake Discs Front, Ventilated and Drilled Discs Rear), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP).

Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Airbag System:

Multi-stage front airbags, side airbags, knee airbags (driver and passenger).

Rollover Protection:

Automatically deploying roll bars behind the headrests.

Seat Belt Features:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters, NECK-PRO active head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation EXperience)

Navigation System:

Integrated GPS Navigation System

Audio System:

Premium sound system (e.g., Harman Kardon or Bose)

Cruise Control:

Standard Cruise Control

Parking Assistance:

PARKTRONIC parking aid

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free connectivity (may require adapter), CD changer, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (subscription required).

Headlight Technology:

Bi-Xenon Headlights with Active Curve Illumination

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to flexible service indicator (typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 1 year, depending on driving conditions and oil quality used).

Major Service Intervals:

Major services typically occur at 30,000, 60,000, and 100,000-mile intervals, involving comprehensive inspections and fluid changes.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (Synthetic engine oil, viscosity typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters) with filter change.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 (Specific to AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5-speed transmission)

Coolant Specification:

MB 325.0 (Glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically blue)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Plus (or MB Specification 331.0)

Common Potential Issues:

ABC suspension system leaks or pump failure, ignition coil failure, turbocharger issues, catalytic converter failure, transmission control module issues, convertible top hydraulic system problems.

Engine Oil Filter Example Pn:

A0001802609 (Check for specific variant)

Air Filter Example Pn:

A2750940601 (Typically a set of two, check for specific variant)

Cabin Air Filter Example Pn:

A2308300018 (Typically a set of two, check for specific variant)

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer History:

Mercedes-Benz, established 1926, renowned for luxury, engineering, and innovation in automotive history.

Sl Class Heritage:

The SL-Class has a storied history dating back to the iconic 300SL 'Gullwing' of the 1950s, consistently representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz convertible luxury and performance.

R230 Generation Highlights:

The R230 generation (2002-2011) featured a retractable hardtop, advanced active suspension systems (ABC), and a range of powerful engines, including the V12 Biturbo for the SL65 AMG.

Amg Division Role:

AMG (Aufrecht, Melcher, Großaspach) is the high-performance division of Mercedes-Benz, responsible for developing the SL65 AMG's extreme powertrain and chassis enhancements.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Accolades:

The SL65 AMG variants are generally lauded by automotive press for their immense power and luxury, though often criticized for weight and complexity compared to some rivals.

Fuel Economy Rating:

EPA estimates are typically low due to the powerful V12 engine (e.g., ~10-12 MPG city / ~15-18 MPG highway). Specific figures vary.