Positioning:
Premium Grand Tourer, High-Performance Sports Car
Competitors:
Aston Martin DB9, Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder, Porsche 911 Turbo
Performance Focus:
Focus on the twin-turbocharged V12 engine, advanced suspension, and AMG performance enhancements.
Target Audience:
Owners and independent technicians requiring in-depth technical information for repair and maintenance of the SL65 AMG.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Component Replacement, Electrical Schematics, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)
Powertrain:
Engine (M275), Transmission (7G-TRONIC 722.6), Drivetrain, Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (ABC - Active Body Control), Steering, Brakes (AMG High-Performance), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Climate Control, Navigation, Power Accessories, Airbags (SRS), ABS, ESP
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Interior Trim, Seats, Exterior Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Tune-ups
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair/Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Convertible Top Mechanism Repair
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, System Troubleshooting Flowcharts
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Diagnostic Parameters, Component Data, Alignment Specs
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
M275: 6.0L (5980cc) Twin-Turbocharged V12
Bore X Stroke:
82.6 mm x 93.0 mm
Horsepower:
604 hp @ 4800-5500 rpm
Torque:
738 lb-ft (1000 Nm) @ 2000-4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
ECU:
ME 2.8 (Motor Electronics)
Transmission Type:
AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC Automatic
Gear Ratios:
4.377 (1st), 2.859 (2nd), 1.773 (3rd), 1.354 (4th), 1.000 (5th), 0.831 (6th), 0.732 (7th), 4.000 (Reverse)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Approval 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Amg Modes:
Sport, Manual, Comfort modes
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not Rated (Vehicle class) - Generally excellent occupant protection in its era.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not Rated (Vehicle class)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BAS)
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Suspension:
Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system
Airbags:
Front airbags, Side airbags, Knee airbags, Roll-over protection system
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and force limiter equipped seatbelts
Command System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation) with CD/DVD changer, radio, navigation, and optional Harman Kardon audio.
Climate Control:
THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control with dual-zone capability.
Cruise Control:
DISTRONIC (optional adaptive cruise control)
Parking Assistance:
Front and rear PARKTRONIC parking sensors
Phone Integration:
Bluetooth® interface for hands-free telephony (via UHI connector).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Check manual for severe conditions.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years (DOT 4 Plus recommended)
Coolant Change:
First change at 15,000 miles or 3 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 40,000 miles or 4 years (crucial for longevity).
Engine Oil:
Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic (MB Approval 229.5)
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-48 or equivalent MB 325.0 / 326.0)
Abc Suspension:
Hydraulic leaks from ABC struts, lines, and pump are common. Fluid reservoir and filter maintenance is critical.
Twin Turbo System:
Intercooler leaks, turbocharger wastegate issues, and ignition coil failures can occur.
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic pump, cylinder seals, and microswitches for the retractable hardtop can require service.
Ignition System:
Spark plug and coil pack failure can lead to misfires, especially on the V12's dual ignition setup.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and performance, particularly with its SL (Super Light) line.
R230 Generation:
The R230 generation (2002-2011) introduced the Variable Active Suspension (VAS) or Active Body Control (ABC) and represented a significant leap in technology and design for the SL-Class.
Sl65 Amg Positioning:
The SL65 AMG was the flagship performance model of the R230 generation, showcasing AMG's expertise in creating extremely powerful and luxurious roadsters.
Production Period:
2002-2011 (R230 generation), SL65 AMG specifically from 2004 onwards.
