🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SLK-Class

Trim:

SLK280 Sport

Year:

2008

Generation Code:

R171

Generation Years:

2004-2010

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Premium Sports Roadster / Luxury Convertible

Target Audience:

Discerning buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and engaging two-seater convertible with Mercedes-Benz build quality and features.

Key Competitors:

BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, Porsche Boxster, Nissan 350Z Roadster

Convertible System:

VARIO-ROOF (retractable hardtop) offering coupe-like security and convertible experience.

Sportiness:

Rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, and agile handling characteristics.

Luxury And Comfort:

Premium interior materials, advanced climate control, and a refined driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class SLK280 Sport

Secondary Coverage:

General SLK-Class (R171) information relevant to the SLK280

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (estimated for a typical factory owner's manual of this era)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Infotainment And Comfort:

Radio/Audio System, COMAND Navigation (if equipped), Climate Control (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), Entertainment Systems, Power Seats, Convertible Top Operation (VARIO-ROOF)

Driver Controls And Instruments:

Instrument Cluster (gauges, warning lamps), Steering Wheel Controls, Turn Signals, Wipers, Lighting Controls (Headlights, Fog Lights), Cruise Control, Parking Brake

Locks And Security:

Remote Keyless Entry, Central Locking, Anti-theft Alarm System, Immobilizer, Power Windows

Safety And Restraints:

Airbags (Front, Side, Knee), Seatbelts (with Belt Force Limiters and Pre-tensioners), ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (if equipped)

Vehicle Operation:

Starting and Driving, Fuel Information, Refill Capacities, Engine Compartment Overview, Battery Care, Cleaning and Care, Towing Information

Maintenance And Specifications:

Maintenance Schedules, Lubricant Specifications, Fluid Recommendations, Filter Part Numbers, Tire and Wheel Specifications, General Technical Specifications

Routine Maintenance:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, replacing wiper blades, basic interior/exterior cleaning

Operational Procedures:

Operating the convertible roof, adjusting seats and mirrors, using the climate control system, navigating infotainment features, proper starting and stopping procedures

Troubleshooting Basic:

Understanding warning lamps and messages, basic troubleshooting of common issues (e.g., key fob battery, minor electrical glitches)

Safety Features Operation:

Proper use of seatbelts, understanding airbag systems, child seat installation guidelines

Depth:

Comprehensive owner-level information. Focuses on operation, features, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures, component removal/installation for repair, or wiring diagrams typically found in a factory service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text (common for factory PDFs)

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory manual content

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Reader Required:

PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader)

Compatibility:

Any device capable of reading PDF files (PC, Mac, Tablet, Smartphone)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M272 (for the 3.0L V6)

Engine Type:

V6, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

2997 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

88 mm x 82 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.7:1

Horsepower:

228 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

221 lb-ft @ 2500-5000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

ECU:

ME 9.7 (Siemens)

Standards:

California LEV-II / Federal Tier 2 Bin 5

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

7-speed Automatic Transmission (7G-TRONIC)

Features:

TouchShift paddle shifters on steering wheel, Comfort and Sport modes

Manual Fluid:

MB Appendix 236.20 (e.g., Shell Spirax S6 GHME 75W-80 or equivalent)

Automatic Fluid:

MB Appendix 236.12 (e.g., Mobil ATF 134 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

157.3 in (4000 mm)

Width:

69.5 in (1765 mm)

Height:

50.1 in (1273 mm)

Wheelbase:

94.5 in (2400 mm)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approximately 3,197 lbs (1450 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approximately 3,241 lbs (1470 kg)

Trunk Volume Roof Up:

Approximately 10.2 cu ft (290 L)

Trunk Volume Roof Down:

Approximately 6.0 cu ft (170 L)

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch Alloy

Standard Tire Size:

225/45 R17 (Front), 245/40 R17 (Rear)

Bolt Pattern:

5x112

Center Bore:

66.6 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

5-Star (for models with similar safety structures)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models with similar safety structures)

IIHS Rear Impact:

Good (for models with similar safety structures)

Braking:

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

Stability Control:

ESP (Electronic Stability Program) with ASR (Acceleration Skid Control)

Tire Monitoring:

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Airbags:

Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags integrated into seats, knee airbags (driver's side)

Rollover Protection:

Automatically deploying roll bars integrated behind the seats

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with belt tensioners and belt force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with 8 speakers. Optional upgrades include CD changer and premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Navigation:

Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated GPS navigation, typically with a central display screen.

Connectivity:

Optional Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling. AUX input for audio devices.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control functionality.

System:

Standard THERMATIC automatic climate control. Optional THERMOTRONIC dual-zone automatic climate control with climate-controlled storage compartment.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Flexible, typically indicated by the 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicator in the instrument cluster, usually around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Major Service Intervals:

Refer to Service B for spark plugs, cabin air filters, etc. (e.g., every 30,000-45,000 miles).

Engine Oil:

Mobil 1 Formula M 0W-40 or equivalent synthetic oil meeting MB Approval 229.5

Coolant:

Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Plus (SAE J1704) meeting MB Approval 331.0

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Water mixed with approved washer fluid additive

Oil Filter:

e.g., Mann-Filter HU 715/5 x, Mahle OX 346/1 D, Mercedes-Benz A 272 184 01 25

Engine Air Filter:

e.g., Mann-Filter C 26 030, Mahle LX 943, Mercedes-Benz A 272 094 01 01

Cabin Air Filter:

e.g., Mann-Filter CU 2737, Mahle LAO 678, Mercedes-Benz A 203 830 02 18

Common Concerns:

Potential issues can include VARIO-ROOF hydraulic system leaks, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) issues (though less prevalent on the R171 compared to earlier models), and minor electronic glitches. Check for proper convertible top operation and warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz History:

Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz has a long and prestigious history in automotive engineering and luxury vehicle manufacturing, renowned for innovation, quality, and safety.

Slk Class Heritage:

The SLK-Class, introduced in 1996 (R170), was Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact roadster segment. The R171 generation (2004-2010) introduced a more aggressive design, the innovative VARIO-ROOF retractable hardtop, and significant technological advancements.

Manufacturing Location:

Bremen, Germany

Model Run Years:

2008 Model Year

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Popular Mechanics Editor Choice:

The SLK-Class, in its generation, often received praise from automotive publications for its blend of performance, luxury, and innovative features.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings for this specific model year varied, and owners should consult detailed consumer reports for the most accurate, up-to-date information.