Segment:
Premium Compact Sports Car / Roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, professional workshops.
Key Competitors:
BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, Porsche Boxster
Vehicle Highlight:
Retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof) offering coupe-like security and convertible freedom.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables significant cost savings on maintenance and repairs through detailed, illustrated instructions.
Accessibility:
Instant digital delivery and multi-device compatibility enhance user convenience.
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (automatic and manual), Drivetrain, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio System, Climate Control, Power Accessories (windows, seats, roof), Instrumentation
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Roof System (vario-roof), Interior Trim, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Level Checks and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation, Diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Convertible Roof System Repair, Body Panel Repair
Adjustments:
Wheel Alignment, Headlight Aiming, Door and Trunk Latch Adjustments, Convertible Roof Alignment
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific Mercedes-Benz special tools required for various procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic routines.
Searchable:
Yes (assumed for standard PDF manuals of this nature)
Quality:
High Quality (described as 'high quality service repair workshop manual')
Illustrations:
Step-by-step instructions with pictures
Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Software Required:
Adobe Reader (free download available)
Devices:
All PC & MAC Computers, tablets, mobile phones
Model Engine Options:
SLK280 (M272 E30), SLK350 (M272 E35), SLK55 AMG (M113 E55)
Horsepower:
228 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
221 lb-ft @ 2500-5000 rpm
Horsepower:
268 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
258 lb-ft @ 2400-5500 rpm
Horsepower:
355 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
376 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Type:
Sequential Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Slk280/Slk350:
7G-TRONIC Automatic Transmission
Slk280/Slk350:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (less common)
Type:
7G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT Automatic Transmission
Drive Modes:
Comfort, Sport (for 7G-TRONIC)
Length:
Approx. 160.5 inches (4077 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
Approx. 50.7 inches (1288 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 94.5 inches (2400 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000 - 3300 lbs (1361 - 1497 kg) depending on engine and options
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags)
Standard:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS)
Standard:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Side Airbags, Rollover Protection System (pop-up bars)
Optional:
Head Airbags (mounted in doors)
Audio System:
Optional COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) with integrated navigation, CD/DVD player, and radio.
Connectivity:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, optional telematics (TeleAid).
Adaptive Headlights:
Optional Bi-Xenon headlights with cornering illumination function.
Parking Assistance:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking aid system.
Oil Change:
Flexible Service System (ASSYST) typically indicates every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific driving conditions.
Major Service A:
Approximately 10,000-15,000 miles: Includes oil and filter change, tire rotation, inspection of brakes, suspension, exhaust.
Major Service B:
Approximately 20,000-30,000 miles: Includes Service A items plus cabin filter replacement, engine air filter replacement, spark plug replacement (typically at higher mileage).
Engine Oil:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended. Consult manual for exact viscosity based on climate.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 approved ATF (e.g., Pentosin ATF 7 G-Tronic Transmission Fluid)
Coolant:
MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 approved coolant (e.g., Mercedes-Benz Antifreeze)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
M272 Engine Timing Chain Sprockets:
Early M272 engines can suffer from wear on timing chain sprockets, leading to rough idle and check engine light. Manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures.
Vario Roof System:
Hydraulic leaks or pump failures in the Vario-Roof system can occur. Manual details troubleshooting and repair for the hydraulic and electrical components.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Can become dirty or fail, leading to poor engine performance. Manual covers cleaning and replacement procedures.
Ignition Coils:
Failures can cause misfires and rough running. Manual guides on diagnosis and replacement.
Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and performance in sports cars, dating back to models like the 300SL Gullwing.
R171 Introduction:
The R171 generation of the SLK replaced the R170 in 2004, featuring a more aggressive design and the innovative Vario-Roof retractable hardtop.
2007 Updates:
For the 2007 model year, Mercedes-Benz introduced the SLK280 as a new entry-level model, replacing the previous SLK320. Minor styling tweaks and feature enhancements were also part of the mid-cycle refresh.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
Editorial Reviews:
The R171 SLK Class was generally well-received for its handling, comfortable ride, and advanced Vario-Roof technology, often praised for bridging the gap between a sports car and a comfortable grand tourer.
Consumer Reports:
Ratings varied by model year and specific engine; generally good, with some model-specific reliability concerns addressed in owner forums and professional reviews.
