🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SLK Class

Chassis Code:

R172

Model Year:

2018

Internal Model Code:

R172 Series

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Roadster / Sports Car

Key Competitors:

BMW Z4, Audi TT, Porsche Boxster (entry-level models), Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, Ford Mustang Convertible.

Vario Roof:

Retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof) offering coupe versatility and convertible open-air driving.

Driving Dynamics:

Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, engaging driving experience characteristic of Mercedes-Benz sports cars.

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Mercedes-Benz owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repairs.

Detail Level Photos Diagrams:

Hundreds of pages with detailed photos and diagrams, including step-by-step instructions and exploded views for clarity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Description:

All repairs, servicing, troubleshooting, electrical diagrams, component removal and installation, technical specifications, diagnostics, maintenance schedules.

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds (specific number not provided, but stated as extensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Type Description:

Professional-grade workshop manual used by certified technicians, providing a complete resource for maintenance, repair, and diagnostics.

Language:

English (implied by product description and common for workshop manuals)

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition system, lubrication, cooling system, emission control, engine management (ECU).

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 7G-TRONIC PLUS), clutch, torque converter, transmission control module, maintenance, repair.

Drivetrain Systems:

Rear-wheel drive, driveshafts, differential, axle components.

Brake Systems:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS, ESP, brake discs, pads, calipers, hydraulic lines, parking brake.

Suspension Steering Systems:

Front and rear suspension (e.g., MacPherson strut, multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, steering gear, power steering system.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, power windows, central locking, comfort electronics, infotainment system, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams.

Body Chassis Systems:

Body structure, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, convertible hardtop mechanism (VARIO-ROOF), interior trim, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).

Climate Control Systems:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control unit.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-ups, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component overhaul, transmission service and repair, brake system repair, suspension and steering repair, electrical component replacement, body panel repair, convertible roof mechanism repair.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Fault finding, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), step-by-step diagnostic guides for various systems, using diagnostic scan tools.

Technical Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, engine parameters.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, component locations, and connector pinouts.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Printability:

Printable (single pages or entire manual)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

Usage License:

Lifetime use on unlimited devices, no expiry dates, no renewal fees.

Operating Systems:

Windows and macOS compatible

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2018:

Likely includes the SLK 250 (2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4), SLK 300 (2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4), and potentially the AMG SLC 43 (3.0L Biturbo V6) although the R172 was facelifted and renamed to SLC Class for 2016. The manual would cover the 2018 model year of the *SLC Class R172*.

Typical Horsepower Range:

200 hp - 360 hp (depending on engine variant)

Typical Torque Range:

229 lb-ft - 384 lb-ft (depending on engine variant)

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Fuel Injection (CGI - Stratified Charged Gasoline Injection)

Common Engine Codes:

M274 (2.0L Turbo-4), M276 (3.0L Biturbo V6 for AMG variant).

Engine Configuration:

Inline-4 Turbocharged (M274) or V6 Biturbo (M276 AMG).

Engine Displacement Typical:

1991 cc (2.0L) for 4-cylinder, 2996 cc (3.0L) for V6.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

7-speed G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC)

Optional Transmission:

Manual transmission was available on earlier R172 models, but less common or potentially phased out for the 2018 model year, especially for higher performance variants. Check manual for specific transmission options for 2018.

Transmission Features:

Paddle shifters, ECO start/stop function, sport modes.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,137 mm (162.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,786 mm (70.3 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,301 mm (51.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,430 - 1,550 kg (3,153 - 3,417 lbs) depending on engine and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Specific NHTSA ratings for the 2018 R172 (SLC) may vary, but previous generations generally received high ratings. The manual will detail specific safety system operation.

Active Safety Systems:

ABS, BAS (Brake Assist System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ATTENTION ASSIST, optional Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC PLUS).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side airbags, knee airbags (driver), rollover protection bars, seatbelt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMMAND infotainment system (NTG 4.5 or later), featuring display screen, radio, CD/DVD player, USB/SD card slots, Bluetooth connectivity, optional navigation.

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard ATTENTION ASSIST, optional features like Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC PLUS), Parking Assist.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional Mercedes-Benz Apps and internet connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Service A Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions and model variant).

Service B Interval:

Typically every 20,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first (includes more comprehensive checks and replacements).

Engine Oil Specification:

Refer to Mercedes-Benz Approved Lubricants list, commonly MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 for gasoline engines (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or 5W-40 ESP).

Coolant Specification:

Mercedes-Benz coolant (G48 or equivalent) - usually a pink or blue mixture of ethylene glycol and corrosion inhibitors.

Transmission Fluid Specification:

MB 236.14 or MB 236.15 for 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission (e.g., Mobil ATF 134).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 PLUS (MB 331.0)

Common Issues R172:

Convertible hardtop (Vario-Roof) mechanism requiring lubrication and potential sensor issues, occasional oil leaks from the engine, early reports of potential turbocharger issues on some variants, M271 engine oil consumption concerns on earlier models (less prevalent on M274).

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

A2741800009 (for M274 engine - consult manual for exact part number for specific engine variant).

Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:

A2048300418 (may vary, consult manual).

Typical Front Tire Pressure:

32-36 PSI (check driver's side door jamb placard for exact specification).

Typical Rear Tire Pressure:

32-36 PSI (check driver's side door jamb placard for exact specification).

Battery Type And Group Size:

AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery, Group Size 48 or H6 is common for Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era. Consult manual for precise specifications.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Sports Car Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing iconic roadsters and sports cars, including the 300 SL 'Gullwing', 190 SL, SL series (R107, R129, R230, R231), and the SLK class itself which debuted in 1996.

R172 Generation Timeline:

The R172 debuted for the 2011 model year. It received a significant facelift for the 2016 model year, which included a name change to SLC Class. The 2018 model is part of this facelifted generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ward S 10 Best Engines:

Mercedes-Benz engines, including variants of the M274 and M276, have frequently been recognized on Wards 10 Best Engines list for their efficiency and performance.

Safety Awards Previous Generations:

Previous SLK generations have earned high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, indicating a strong focus on safety engineering by Mercedes-Benz.