Market Position:
The SLK series represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact luxury roadster segment, targeting a more youthful and performance-oriented demographic than traditional Mercedes-Benz offerings, while retaining brand quality and innovation.
Competitors:
Primarily competed against the BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster, and Audi TT of the era, offering a unique 'Variosteel' retractable hardtop that differentiated it from many soft-top rivals.
Key Features:
Supercharged engine option (SLK 230 Kompressor), powerful V6 engine (SLK 320), innovative retractable hardtop (Variosteel), compact sportscar styling, Mercedes-Benz build quality and safety systems.
Vehicle Coverage:
2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK 230 Kompressor, SLK 320
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual / Repair Manual
Specific Sections Covered:
Features, Controls, Technical Data, Specs, Capacities, Consumer Information, DIY Repairs, Electronics, Comfort Features, Maintenance, Driving, Instrument Cluster, Practical Hints, Vehicle Care, Technical Data, Index
Estimated Page Count:
Estimated 300-500 pages (based on typical Mercedes-Benz manuals of this era and extensive content list)
Manual Type Description:
Comprehensive guide covering operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for the specified Mercedes-Benz SLK models. Includes owner's information as well as technical details.
Engine And Drivetrain:
Engine specifications, maintenance, oil capacities, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, manual and automatic transmission operation and maintenance, clutch, differential.
Chassis And Suspension:
Steering system, suspension components, brakes (ABS, BAS, ESP), wheels, tires, parking brake.
Electrical And Electronics
Electrical System:
Instrument cluster, warning lamps, onboard diagnostics, lighting (exterior and interior), power windows, central locking, antitheft alarm, SRS system (airbags, pretensioners), audio and telephone system, climate control, remote control functions, garage door opener.
Body And Interior:
Retractable hardtop operation and maintenance, seats (heaters, adjustment), seat belts, child restraint systems, interior features (cup holders, storage, ashtrays, parcel net), luggage cover, roll bars, hood, trunk release, fuel filler flap.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid level checks (engine oil, coolant, washer fluid), oil and filter changes, tire rotation, wheel replacement, brake pad wear inspection, battery maintenance, wiper blade replacement, fuse replacement, bulb replacement, antenna adjustment, manual hardtop raising.
Repair Procedures:
Minor DIY repairs, troubleshooting common issues, detailed steps for component replacement (e.g., wiper blades, remote batteries, fuses, headlamp assemblies, taillamp assemblies), emergency engine shut-down, manual unlocking of transmission selector lever.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Interpreting instrument cluster warning and indicator lamps, understanding onboard diagnostic system (check engine light), troubleshooting common malfunctions.
Technical Depth:
Covers a wide range from basic owner operations and maintenance checks to essential repair procedures. Provides detailed technical data, specifications, and capacities, enabling informed DIY tasks and a deeper understanding for professional servicing.
Compatibility:
Compatible with all PC and MAC computers, all Windows versions (95, 98, 98SE, 2000, NT, ME, XP, Vista, 7), and modern operating systems.
Print Quality:
High resolution, suitable for printing essential sections or the entire manual.
Binding Type:
Digital (PDF), No physical binding.
Paper Type:
Not applicable (Digital format).
Transmission Slk230:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Slk320:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Slk230:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Features:
Includes sections on operation, manual selection, and electronic control systems for both transmission types. Automatic transmission features likely include electronic shifting and adaptive programming.
Passive Safety Features:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) including airbags (driver, passenger), Emergency Tensioning Retractors (ETR) for seat belts, reinforced passenger cell, roll bars.
Active Safety Features:
Antilock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP). Mention of seat belt non-usage warning system and BabySmart™ airbag deactivation.
Infotainment Features:
Audio and telephone system operation. Likely includes AM/FM radio, CD player, and provisions for a factory-installed or dealer-installed telephone. The manual covers basic operation and controls.
Driver Assistance Systems:
ABS, BAS, ESP are prominently mentioned, indicating advanced driver assistance systems for the era. Cruise control is also listed.
Connectivity:
The manual mentions operation of the remote control with folding master key, and the Tele Aid system, indicating early forms of vehicle connectivity and remote services.
Service Intervals:
The manual likely details the Flexible Service System (FSS) which dynamically calculates service intervals based on driving conditions and usage. General intervals for oil changes are typically around 15,000 km or 1 year. More comprehensive servicing would be indicated by the FSS.
Engine Oil:
Specific Mercedes-Benz approved engine oils (e.g., MB 229.1 or MB 229.5 specifications depending on exact engine variant and oil formulation). Viscosity grades like 0W-40 or 5W-40 are common.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz approved G48 antifreeze coolant (typically a blue/green silicate-containing formula).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 specification brake fluid.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Specific Mercedes-Benz Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) such as MB 236.10 or MB 236.12, depending on transmission type.
Common Issues:
Potential issues can include the retractable hardtop mechanism (seals, hydraulics), ignition coils (especially on M112/M113 engines), MAF sensor on Kompressor models, and ABC suspension issues (if equipped, though less common on SLK R170). The manual will guide on basic checks and troubleshooting.
