🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL600

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

R230

Engine Code:

M275

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Luxury Grand Tourer / Sports Car

Target Audience:

Owners and independent specialists seeking in-depth, factory-authorized repair and maintenance information

Competitors:

BMW 6 Series, Bentley Continental GT, Jaguar XK, Porsche 911

Manual Advantage:

Official licensing ensures accuracy and completeness, mirroring dealership-level repair data

Software Benefits:

Interactive diagrams, integrated search, faster access to information compared to printed manuals

Model Significance:

Represents Mercedes-Benz's pinnacle of V12 engineering and luxury touring in its era

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Climate Control, Bodywork, Interior, Convertible Top, Infotainment, Diagnostics

Page Count:

Estimated 3000+ pages (typical for official MB workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software (likely based on Mercedes-Benz's Electronic Service Manual - ESM)

Language:

English (typically with options for other languages in official software)

Format:

Software (likely delivered as a downloadable application or ISO image, not just a static PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

V12 Bi-Turbo engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and main bearing service, camshaft timing and drive system, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (ME 2.8), ignition system, engine control unit (ECU) functions, sensors and actuators, emission control systems (OBD-II diagnostics)

Transmission:

5G-TRONIC Automatic Transmission (722.6) overhaul, clutch pack replacement, valve body service, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM)

Drivetrain:

Rear axle assembly, differential, driveshafts, CV joints

Suspension:

Active Body Control (ABC) system hydraulics, struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel bearings, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, steering wheel removal/installation

Brakes:

Front and rear brake caliper service, brake disc replacement, brake fluid flush and bleed, ABS/ESP system diagnostics and components

Electrical System:

Battery and charging system, starter motor, alternator, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuse and relay locations

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control system operation, refrigerant handling, AC compressor, evaporator, heater core, HVAC control module

Bodywork And Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, door hardware, interior trim, seat removal, sound insulation

Convertible Top:

Hydraulic system for retractable hardtop, actuators, sensors, top mechanism repair and adjustment

Infotainment And Comfort:

COMAND NTG 1 system, telematics, navigation, audio system, heated/ventilated seats, power windows, mirrors

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), OBD-II diagnostics, STAR DIAGNOSIS (SDS) system integration, sensor data interpretation

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter service, coolant replacement, brake fluid replacement, differential fluid change, transmission fluid and filter service

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults, circuit testing, component testing using diagnostic tools

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, illustrated instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation

Adjustment Procedures:

Door, hood, trunk, and convertible top alignment; suspension geometry adjustments; steering system centering

Special Tool Requirements:

Identification and usage instructions for specific Mercedes-Benz special tools required for certain procedures

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics and ABC system repairs

Diagnostic Focus:

Emphasis on using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic equipment (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS) and interpreting sensor data for accurate fault diagnosis

Electrical Diagrams:

Detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, enabling precise troubleshooting of electrical faults

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners to ensure proper assembly and prevent component failure

Component Tolerances:

Specifications for wear limits and clearances on engine and transmission components, crucial for rebuilds

📊 Manual Specifications

Software Type:

Proprietary Mercedes-Benz Electronic Service Manual (ESM) software or similar licensed dealership tool

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick access to specific topics and procedures

Print Capability:

Designed for electronic viewing; printing capabilities may depend on the specific software implementation and licensing

Binding:

N/A (Software format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Software format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V12 Bi-Turbo

Displacement:

5.5 Liters (5513 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

82.6 mm x 87.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder (total 36 valves)

Engine Code:

M275.950

Horsepower:

493 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

516 lb-ft (700 Nm) @ 1800-3500 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Fuel Injection (ME 2.8)

Turbocharging:

Twin-Turbochargers

ECM Type:

Bosch ME 2.8 ECU

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (5G-TRONIC)

Transmission Code:

722.6

Gear Ratios:

Provided in manual (specific ratios for each gear)

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.10 (e.g., Shell ATF 134, Mobil ATF 134)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 liters (dry fill) / 7.5 liters (drain and fill), consult manual for exact quantity

📐 Dimensions

Length:

175.6 inches (4460 mm)

Width:

73.2 inches (1859 mm)

Height:

51.5 inches (1308 mm)

Wheelbase:

102.4 inches (2600 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4387 lbs (1990 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not specified in basic product info, consult manual

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not readily available for this specific model/year in public domain; consult official MB safety data or manual for detailed tests.

Traction Control:

ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation), ESP (Electronic Stability Program)

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS)

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, head airbags, roll-over protection system

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning seat belts, belt force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND NTG 1 (Cockpit Management and Navigation)

Features Included:

Navigation system, CD player, AM/FM radio, optional Bose sound system, telephone integration.

Adaptive Cruise Control:

DISTRONIC (optional)

Parking Assistance:

PARKTRONIC (optional)

Bluetooth Telephony:

Available via optional UHI (Universal Hands-free Interface) module and cradle.

Active Suspension System:

Active Body Control (ABC) – Hydropneumatic suspension system that adjusts damping and ride height dynamically.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Consult manual for exact interval and conditions.

Transmission Service Interval:

MB recommends transmission fluid and filter change around 39,000 miles or 3-4 years. Check manual for specific intervals.

Brake Fluid Service Interval:

Every 2 years

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Every 5 years or 100,000 miles with MB coolant

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-40)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (with filter)

Power Steering Fluid:

MB 343.0 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S)

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)

Common Problems:

Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic leaks/pump failures, coil pack failures on V12, transmission conductor plate issues, ignition coil failures, ABC hydraulic line corrosion, roof hydraulic leaks.

Diagnostic Focus Areas:

The manual will provide detailed procedures to diagnose and repair ABC system faults, engine misfires, and transmission control issues, which are common areas for this model.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Pioneering automotive manufacturer with a long history of luxury, performance, and engineering innovation, particularly in the roadster segment.

Sl Class Lineage:

The SL-Class has a storied history dating back to the iconic 300SL 'Gullwing' and 'Roadster', representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz convertibles.

R230 Generation:

The R230 generation (2002-2008) introduced significant technological advancements, including the Active Body Control (ABC) suspension and the bi-turbo V12 engine for the SL600.

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

Model Years Covered:

This specific manual covers the 2004 model year, but the R230 platform saw continuous updates through 2008.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Accolades:

While specific awards for the 2004 SL600 are not directly listed, the SL-Class consistently received recognition for its luxury, technology, and performance from automotive journalists and publications throughout its production cycles.