Market Segment:
Compact premium roadster, competitor to BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster
Unique Selling Proposition:
Integrated retractable hardtop (Vario-roof), Mercedes-Benz build quality and refinement
Model Defining Feature:
Vario-roof (retractable hardtop) offering coupe and convertible experience
Manual Benefit Diy:
Empowers DIY enthusiasts to perform professional-level servicing and repairs.
Manual Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive workshop service and repair
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific engine/transmission, typically 1500+ pages
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Operating Systems Compatibility:
Windows (95, 98, ME, XP, Vista, 7), Linux, MAC OS
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 722.6 '5G-TRONIC'), manual transmission (if applicable), clutch
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (including ABS, ESP)
Electrical Systems:
Body control modules (BCM), powertrain control modules (PCM), lighting, instrumentation, audio, power accessories, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, seats, convertible top mechanism (Vario-roof), interior trim, climate control (HVAC)
Lighting Systems:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, wiring and bulb replacement.
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control unit diagnosis and repair.
Safety Systems Srs:
Airbag module diagnosis, sensor replacement, SRS warning light troubleshooting.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, spark plug changes, tire rotation
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, sensor diagnostics
Special Procedures:
Vario-roof hydraulic system maintenance/repair, convertible top mechanism adjustments, SRS (airbag) system servicing
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex problems.
Technical Depth Level:
Complete from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Electrical Schematics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Engine Options:
2.0L Inline-4 (SLK200 Kompressor), 2.3L Supercharged Inline-4 (SLK230 Kompressor), 3.2L V6 (SLK320), 3.2L Supercharged V6 (SLK32 AMG)
Slk230 Kompressor Horsepower:
Approx. 192 hp @ 5500 rpm
Slk230 Kompressor Torque:
Approx. 200 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Slk320 Horsepower:
Approx. 215 hp @ 5700 rpm
Slk320 Torque:
Approx. 229 lb-ft @ 3000-4600 rpm
Slk32 Amg Horsepower:
Approx. 354 hp @ 6100 rpm
Slk32 Amg Torque:
Approx. 332 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (available on some models)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Specification 236.10 (e.g., ATF 3403-M115)
NHTSA Ratings:
Good in front offset crash (IIHS), though specific NHTSA ratings for this era may vary or not be directly comparable to modern standards.
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, roll-over protection (automatic pop-up bars)
Infotainment Features:
Analog/digital radio, CD player, optional navigation system (APS)
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking assist (optional on later models)
Connectivity Options:
Limited by era; primarily analog systems, optional teleaid
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific model year/engine)
Major Service Interval:
e.g., 30,000 miles for spark plugs, brake fluid service, coolant service (refer to manual)
Engine Oil Specification:
MB Specification 229.1 or 229.3 (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40 synthetic)
Coolant Specification:
MB Specification 325.0 (Antifreeze Protection Formula)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Specification 235.10 (e.g., hydraulic oil)
Common Issues Vario Roof:
Hydraulic leaks, pump failures, sensor malfunctions, motor issues affecting Vario-roof operation.
Common Issues Engine Kompressor:
Supercharger belt wear, intercooler leaks, crank position sensor failures.
Common Issues Electrical:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, SAM unit (Signal Acquisition Module) problems, window regulator failures.
Common Issues Suspension:
Front end clunking (strut mounts, control arm bushings), rear axle bushing wear.
