Vehicle Segment:
Premium compact sports roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a stylish, performance-oriented convertible with sophisticated engineering.
Key Competitors:
BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, Porsche Boxster (entry-level variants)
Highlight Feature 1:
VARIO-ROOF: Retractable hardtop that converts the SLK into a coupe or roadster at the touch of a button.
Highlight Feature 2:
AIRSCARF: Neck-level heating system for comfortable open-top driving in cooler weather.
Highlight Feature 3:
COMAND infotainment system with navigation and multimedia capabilities.
Cost Savings:
Empowers owners to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, significantly reducing labor costs.
Ease Of Use:
Step-by-step instructions and detailed illustrations make complex procedures accessible.
Engine Coverage:
All R172 engine variants (e.g., SLK200, SLK250, SLK350, SLK55 AMG)
Transmission Coverage:
All R172 transmission types (e.g., 6-speed manual, 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic)
Trim And Options:
All trim levels and factory options
Estimated Page Count:
High (typically 1500-3000+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system
Engine Management:
ECU, ignition system, fuel injection, emissions control (OBD-II diagnostics)
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch, driveshafts, differential
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering rack, power steering system
Brakes:
Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads), ABS, ESP, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible hardtop mechanism, chassis frame
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, climate control, audio system, interior trim
Comfort Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, power accessories
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault codes, symptom analysis, repair guides
Repair:
Component replacement, assembly/disassembly procedures, calibration
Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, major component repairs
Diagnostics:
OBD-II scanning, sensor testing, electrical circuit diagnosis
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Mercedes-Benz specific tools
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.
Length:
Approx. 4133 mm (162.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1810 mm (71.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1301 mm (51.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2430 mm (95.7 in)
Trunk Volume Hardtop Up:
Approx. 335 liters (11.8 cu ft)
Trunk Volume Hardtop Down:
Approx. 225 liters (7.9 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and equipment, typically starting around 1450 kg (3197 lbs)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 112
Wheel Size:
Commonly 17-inch, 18-inch, or 19-inch wheels
NHTSA Rating:
Not directly available for all model years, but generally reflects Mercedes-Benz's high safety standards.
IIHS Rating:
Likely Good in relevant tests, consistent with segment leaders.
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Antilock Braking System:
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Brake Assist:
BAS (Brake Assist) standard
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Standard TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
Driver Assistance Options:
Optional DISTRONIC PLUS (adaptive cruise control), COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, PARKTRONIC
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, knee airbags (driver)
Rollover Protection:
Integrated rollover protection bars
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and force limiters for front seatbelts
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system
Display Size:
Typically 5.8-inch or 7-inch color display
Features:
Radio, CD/DVD player, USB interface, Bluetooth connectivity, optional navigation
Active Parking Assist:
Optional system that can assist with parking maneuvers.
Lane Keeping Assist:
Optional system to help maintain lane discipline.
Blind Spot Assist:
Optional system to warn of vehicles in blind spots.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional Media Interface for iPod/iPhone.
Headlights:
Halogen, Bi-Xenon, or LED intelligent light systems depending on trim and options.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific model year service schedule).
Major Service Interval:
Assy. A (minor service) and Assy. B (major service) at alternating intervals (e.g., 10k/20k, 30k/40k miles), involving more comprehensive checks and fluid changes.
Engine Oil:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 specifications (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol EDGE Professional OE 0W-40). Check manual for specific engine variant.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz approved G48 coolant (blue) or similar silicate-free antifreeze.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 PLUS (e.g., MB specification 331.0)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MB 236.14 (e.g., Shell ATF 134)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MB specification 235.10 (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)
Common Issue 1:
Soft-close mechanism on doors can fail.
Common Issue 2:
Water ingress into the trunk or taillight seals.
Common Issue 3:
Power steering fluid leaks from seals or pump.
Common Issue 4:
Early models with M271 engine may experience timing chain wear or turbocharger issues.
Common Issue 5:
Convertible hardtop mechanism actuators can fail or require lubrication.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Over a century of automotive innovation and luxury, particularly in sports car development.
Slk Lineage:
The R172 is the third generation of the SLK-Class, succeeding the R171 and R170. It introduced significant updates in design, technology, and performance.
Design Philosophy:
A blend of sports car dynamics with the comfort and practicality of a roadster, inspired by the classic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing.
Production Period:
2011-2018
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
