🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SLK-Class

Chassis Codes:

R170

Applicable Models:

SLK230, SLK320, SLK32 AMG

Applicable Years:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

Internal Chassis Codes:

170.447 (SLK230 98-99), 170.449 (SLK230 00-04), 170.465 (SLK320 00-04), 170.466 (SLK32 AMG 02-04)

Market Focus:

USA/Canada

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Mercedes-Benz owners seeking to accurately identify and source parts for their R170 SLK-Class vehicles. Essential for anyone undertaking their own maintenance or verifying shop estimates.

Value Proposition:

Offers definitive OEM part numbers and detailed visual references, eliminating guesswork and ensuring the correct parts are ordered. The inclusion of labor time estimates provides a critical tool for budgeting and negotiating repair costs, setting it apart from general repair manuals or generic online parts finders.

Manual Benefits:

Empowers owners with precise part identification, facilitates accurate pricing and labor estimations, supports DIY projects by providing the correct components, and aids in verifying the fairness of dealership or independent shop charges. It's a direct conduit to the manufacturer's authorized parts inventory system.

Empowerment For Owners:

Empowers owners to take control of their vehicle's maintenance and repair by providing the necessary tools for accurate part sourcing and cost estimation.

Technical Literature Category:

Essential technical literature for owners and technicians working on the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class (R170).

📋 Manual Details

Major Systems Covered:

Air Conditioning, Heater, Ventilation, Air Bags, Body Panels (Bumpers, Doors, Fenders, Hood, Roof), Brakes, ABS, Convertible Top, Cooling System, Radiator, Water Pump, Hoses, Dashboard, Instrument Panel, Console, Electrical Components (Alternator, Battery, Starter, Ignition, Lights, Cruise Control, Horn, Wipers), Emission System, Exhaust System, Engine External Components (Oil Pan, Belts, Pulleys, Mounts, Accessories), Frame, Fuel System, Interior Trim, Locks, Moldings, Trim, Paint Codes, Seats, Seat Belts, Sunroof, Suspension, Steering, Transmission Mounts, Wheels, Windows, Glass

Excluded Systems:

Service/Repair Information, Wiring Diagrams, Electrical Harnesses, Most Electrical Switches, Engine Internal Parts (Cylinder Head, Engine Block, etc.), Transmission Internals, Clutch, Right-Hand-Drive Specific Parts, Non-USA/Canada Market Specific Parts

Estimated Page Count:

Varies based on original manufacturer catalog; comprehensive coverage implies significant volume (likely several hundred pages)

Type:

Parts Catalog

Distinction From Service Manual:

Specifically excludes repair procedures, diagnostic steps, and detailed service instructions. Focuses solely on part identification and procurement.

Language:

English

Format:

Likely a physical printed manual or a searchable digital format (e.g., PDF) derived from a larger catalog.

Oem Part Number Accuracy:

Features genuine manufacturer part numbers, ensuring accuracy for ordering and cross-referencing with official Mercedes-Benz parts databases.

Diagram Clarity:

Includes exploded view diagrams that clearly illustrate the assembly of various components, aiding in the correct identification and placement of each part.

📖 Manual Coverage

Detailed System Breakdown:

Comprehensive parts breakdown for the specified R170 chassis variants, including detailed schematics and OEM part numbers for all externally accessible and replaceable components. Covers the full spectrum of the vehicle's physical and functional systems, from bodywork and interior to mechanical sub-assemblies.

Identification And Estimation Procedures:

Facilitates the identification of correct OEM parts for ordering, estimation of repair costs through approximate part prices and estimated labor times for replacement, and aids in the sourcing of specific components for maintenance and repair projects.

Depth Of Information:

Provides genuine manufacturer part numbers, exploded view diagrams for visual part identification and location, approximate part pricing, and estimated labor times for replacement. This depth is crucial for accurate parts ordering and realistic repair cost assessment.

External Vs Internal Parts:

Focuses on external, bolt-on, or easily replaceable components. Internal engine and transmission parts requiring detailed disassembly and expertise are explicitly excluded.

Exterior Trim And Molding:

Detailed parts coverage for exterior moldings, trim strips, emblems, license plate brackets, and associated fasteners, crucial for cosmetic repairs and restoration.

Vario-Roof Components:

Includes parts for the electro-hydraulic Vario-roof system, such as seals, latches, hinges, and external mechanisms. Internal hydraulic components and complex electronics may be limited.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Implications:

If digital, expect a searchable PDF or similar format with high-resolution diagrams and indexed part numbers for efficient navigation. Print quality would be consistent with professional automotive publications.

Print Quality Expectation:

High-quality printing with clear, detailed diagrams and legible text, typical of official Mercedes-Benz technical documentation or high-grade aftermarket reproductions. Paper stock would be durable for workshop use.

Binding Type Expectation:

Likely a sturdy bound format (e.g., spiral-bound, stitched, or perfect bound) designed for durability and ease of use in a workshop environment. If digital, this attribute is not applicable.

Paper Type Expectation:

Durable, possibly glossy or semi-gloss paper stock to ensure clarity of diagrams and resist workshop wear and tear. If digital, this is irrelevant.

Data Origin:

Derived from comprehensive repair shop estimation catalogs, providing a direct link to the parts catalog used by professionals.

Adherence To Standards:

Follows industry standards for parts cataloging, providing OEM part numbers and visual aids essential for automotive repair and parts sourcing.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Slk230 Engine Details:

2.3L Supercharged Inline-4 (M111.973) producing approximately 192 hp and 201 lb-ft torque (US-spec). Parts catalog covers external engine components and related systems.

Slk320 Engine Details:

3.2L Naturally Aspirated V6 (M112.942) producing approximately 215 hp and 229 lb-ft torque. Parts catalog covers external engine components and related systems.

Slk32 Engine Details:

3.2L Supercharged V6 (M112.960 - AMG) producing approximately 354 hp and 332 lb-ft torque. Parts catalog covers external engine components and related systems.

Engine Accessories Covered:

Covers replacement parts for engine accessories such as alternator, starter motor, AC compressor, power steering pump, various pulleys, belts, engine mounts, and associated hardware.

Fuel System Components:

Includes identification for fuel pump, fuel filter (location dependent), fuel lines, fuel injectors (external), and related fittings. Does not cover internal fuel pump components or injector internals.

Engine Code Identification:

The manual indirectly supports identification for M111 (SLK230), M112 (SLK320), and M112 AMG variants by providing parts specific to these engine families.

Exhaust And Emission Components:

Covers exhaust manifold parts, catalytic converter housings, muffler components, and emission control system parts where they are discrete replaceable units.

🔧 Transmission

Slk230 Transmission:

Typically a 5-speed automatic transmission (722.6 series) for US models. Parts catalog covers transmission mounts.

Slk320 Transmission:

Typically a 5-speed automatic transmission (722.6 series) for US models. Parts catalog covers transmission mounts.

Slk32 Transmission:

Typically a 5-speed AMG SpeedShift automatic transmission (722.6 series variant) for US models. Parts catalog covers transmission mounts.

Transmission Parts Scope:

Limited to external components such as transmission mounts and potentially seals or external sensors if they are distinct part numbers. Internal transmission components and clutch assemblies are explicitly excluded.

Transmission Type Details:

While not detailing transmission internals, it acknowledges the automatic transmission variants common to these models.

📐 Dimensions

Body Panels Covered:

Extensive coverage for all exterior body panels including front and rear bumpers, fenders, hood, doors, quarter panels, side sills, and the composite hardtop (vario-roof) mechanism components (excluding internal hydraulics/motors likely).

Interior Trim Coverage:

Detailed parts for dashboard fascia, instrument cluster bezels, center console components, door panels, seat components, interior trim pieces, seat belts, and associated fasteners and clips.

Weight Class Estimation:

The SLK-Class (R170) is a compact two-seater roadster. Curb weights typically range from approximately 2,900 lbs (SLK230) to 3,200 lbs (SLK32 AMG), with this manual providing part numbers for components that contribute to these weights.

Wheel And Tire Parts:

Includes parts related to wheels, such as lug bolts, center caps, and potentially wheel bearings. Does not provide tire size specifications or wheel offset data directly, but covers the mounting hardware.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Systems Covered:

Includes parts for the Airbag system (SRS components like airbag modules, clock spring, impact sensors) and the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS components like wheel speed sensors, ABS control module external connections, brake lines). Does not include detailed electrical harness for these systems.

Braking System Parts:

Comprehensive parts for the braking system including brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake hoses, master cylinder components (external), and ABS sensors. Does not include ABS hydraulic modulator internals.

Seatbelt And Airbag Parts:

Covers seat belts (retractors, buckles, webbing), seat belt anchors, and the physical components of the airbag system. Does not cover the electrical deployment logic or intricate SRS wiring.

Lighting Parts Covered:

Covers replacement parts for headlights, taillights, fog lights, turn signals, and interior lighting components, including bulbs, lenses, housings, and connectors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Parts:

Covers parts related to the dashboard and center console, which would include components like radio bezels, climate control knobs/bezels, and trim pieces for the infotainment system. It does not cover the electronic modules themselves.

Driver Assistance Parts:

Includes components for the ABS system (sensors, brake lines) and cruise control system (actuator connections, steering column switches external parts). Does not cover complex electronic control modules or advanced driver-assistance systems not present on this generation.

Connectivity Parts:

Parts related to the antenna system and basic electrical connections for auxiliary inputs might be listed under electrical components. No advanced telematics or smartphone integration parts would be covered, as these were not prevalent.

Electrical Component Scope:

Covers discrete electrical components like alternators, starters, batteries, ignition coils, fuse boxes, relays, switches (limited), and wiring harness connectors. Excludes complete wiring harnesses and detailed circuit diagrams.

🔧 Maintenance

Maintenance Item Identification:

While not a service manual, this parts catalog is essential for ordering replacement parts at scheduled maintenance intervals, such as filters (oil, fuel, air, cabin), spark plugs, brake pads/rotors, belts, and fluids. It helps in identifying the correct OEM part numbers for these consumables.

Fluid Part Identification:

Although not listing fluid specifications directly, it provides part numbers for fluid containers, filters (which imply fluid types), and seals associated with fluid systems, indirectly supporting fluid maintenance.

Common Replacement Parts:

This catalog is invaluable for addressing common R170 issues like Vario-roof mechanism components (actuators, sensors, seals), suspension bushings, mass airflow sensors (for M111), crankshaft position sensors, and various trim clips that tend to break over time.

Support For Diagnostics:

Provides part numbers for sensors and actuators that are commonly diagnosed during troubleshooting, aiding in the identification of replacement parts for repair procedures.

Filter Identification:

Crucial for identifying OEM part numbers for oil filters, air filters, cabin filters, and fuel filters, enabling proper routine maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes-Benz Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety. The SLK-Class continued this tradition by introducing innovative features and maintaining high build quality.

R170 Generation Overview:

The R170 SLK was introduced in 1996 as a compact roadster featuring a novel retractable hardtop ('Vario-roof'), which set it apart. This generation saw updates including the introduction of the V6 engine (SLK320) and the high-performance AMG variant (SLK32). This manual covers the later models of this successful generation.

Production Years Covered:

The manual specifically covers production years from 1998 through 2004, encompassing the facelifted R170 models and the introduction of the V6 and AMG variants.

Slk Market Segment:

The SLK-Class was positioned as a premium compact roadster, competing with vehicles like the BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster, and Audi TT, offering a unique hardtop convertible experience.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The R170 SLK-Class was generally well-received for its innovative Vario-roof, compact sportiness, and Mercedes-Benz build quality. While specific 'awards' for this manual itself are unlikely, its value lies in its direct access to OEM parts data for a respected model.