Positioning:
Luxury Grand Tourer Convertible
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology of the late 1990s.
Competitors:
BMW 8 Series Convertible, Jaguar XJS, Porsche 911 Cabriolet, Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
Luxury:
High-quality materials, advanced comfort features, sophisticated design.
Performance:
Powerful V8 engine, advanced suspension, precise handling.
Technology:
Innovative features for its time, including a sophisticated convertible top mechanism and advanced safety systems.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications
Estimated Pages:
~1500-2000
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
PDF (likely digital download)
Powertrain:
Engine (M119.982), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (722.602 5G-TRONIC), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Active), Steering, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Engine Control Unit (ECU), SRS (Airbag) System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Seats, Top)
Body:
Body Construction, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Convertible Top System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Electrical circuit diagrams, Component testing procedures
Repair:
Engine overhauls, Transmission repair, Suspension component replacement, Brake system service, Electrical component repair, Body panel repair
Specifications:
Torque values, Fluid capacities and types, Electrical component resistance, Dimensional data
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to in-depth diagnostic and repair procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Quality:
High-resolution scans, typically searchable text within PDF.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text, allowing for quick access to specific information.
Printability:
Designed for digital viewing, but printable by section or as a whole.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Type:
4.96 L (4966 cc) V8, SOHC, 32 valves
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic M 2.8.3
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5500 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
~9.5 liters (2.5 US gallons)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 / 325.3 (Antifreeze/Coolant)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (722.602)
Features:
Electronic control, driver-adaptive programming, Comfort/Sport modes.
Optional Transmission:
N/A for 1999 SL500 (all models featured the 5-speed automatic).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 specification (e.g., Mobil ATF 134, Pentosin ATF1)
Fluid Capacity:
~8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts) for a dry fill
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Not Rated (Vehicle from before standardized testing)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, Side Airbags (in seat bolsters)
Rollover Protection:
Automatic Pop-up Roll Bars (integrated into B-pillars)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning front seatbelts with force limiters
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system, likely with CD player and AM/FM radio. Optional cassette deck.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control with dual-zone temperature settings.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (COMAND 2.0).
Cruise Control:
Standard Electronic Cruise Control
Seat Memory:
Standard, with multiple positions for driver and passenger seats.
Bluetooth:
N/A (Not equipped with factory Bluetooth)
Auxiliary Input:
N/A (No factory auxiliary audio input)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles. Crucial for longevity of the 722.6 transmission.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Change:
Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic (meeting MB 229.3 specification is ideal, but manual will specify exact requirement)
Engine Oil Capacity:
~8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Specification 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (low viscosity recommended)
Common Problems:
Biodegradable wiring harnesses (requiring replacement), front SAM module issues, convertible top hydraulic leaks/failures, mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, idle control valve issues, radiator end tank leaks.
Preventative Maintenance Focus:
Regular inspection and replacement of aging rubber components, especially the wiring insulation and suspension bushings. Thorough system checks for leaks.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
A long and illustrious history of luxury, innovation, and engineering excellence dating back to the late 19th century.
Sl Class Evolution:
The SL (Sport Leicht) lineage represents Mercedes-Benz's flagship roadsters, known for blending performance and luxury. The R129 generation replaced the R107 and was known for its advanced safety and technology.
R129 Production Years:
1989-2001
1999 Model Year Updates:
Minor updates for 1999 included revised headlights, clear turn signals, and potentially updated interior trim options.
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
Historical Awards:
While specific awards for the 1999 model year are not widely documented, the R129 SL-Class consistently received praise for its build quality, safety, and engineering prowess in automotive publications of its era.
Reliability Reputation:
Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, though some electrical components and the convertible top system can be sources of repair needs.
Manufacturer Certification:
Built to strict Mercedes-Benz internal quality and safety standards.