🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SL-Class Model Variant: SL500 Sport Year: 2004 Codes Chassis Code: R230 Engine Code: M113 E50 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Sport represented the pinnacle of luxury, performance, and advanced technology in the grand touring convertible segment. It competed directly with high-end roadsters and coupes from marques like Porsche (911 Cabriolet), Jaguar (XK Convertible), and BMW (6 Series Convertible). Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: The R230 SL-Class, particularly the V8-powered SL500, offered a compelling blend of potent V8 performance, a sophisticated retractable hardtop (Varioroof), and cutting-edge technology, setting it apart from more driver-focused sports cars by emphasizing comfort and luxury for grand touring. Key Features Key Features: Powerful V8 engine, Retractable Hardtop (Varioroof), Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, Bi-Xenon headlights, COMAND infotainment system, premium leather interior, advanced safety features. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Coverage Summary: Comprehensive coverage of 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Sport features, operation, maintenance, and specifications. Page Count Estimated Page Count: 300-400 Manual Type Manual Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF (Instant Download) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems Covered: Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems (COMAND, Audio), Climate Controls (THERMOTRONIC), Lighting Systems (Headlights, Interior Lights), Driver Controls (Steering Wheel Functions, Pedals), Locks and Security (Remote Keyless Entry, Alarm), Seating and Safety Restraints (Seats, Seatbelts, Airbags, ISOFIX), Driving Operation, Customer Assistance, Cleaning Procedures, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel System, Air Filter, Accessories. Procedures Included Procedures Included: Operation of vehicle features, basic maintenance, troubleshooting common indicators, fluid checks, tire pressure checks, cleaning instructions, security system operation, seat adjustment, accessory usage, reporting safety defects (U.S. only). Technical Depth Technical Depth: Covers operational details, basic maintenance checks, fluid specifications, and general troubleshooting. Does not include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic information typically found in a Service Manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Portable Document Format (PDF) Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution digital copy of the factory original. Binding Type Binding Type: Not Applicable (Digital) Paper Type Paper Type: Not Applicable (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated V8 Displacement: 4966 cc (5.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 97.0 mm x 84.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Valve Train: SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder Performance Horsepower: 302 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (Sequential) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 Liters (21.1 US Gallons) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Automatic with Touchshift Gear Ratios: First: 3.59, Second: 2.19, Third: 1.41, Fourth: 1.00, Fifth: 0.83, Reverse: 3.17 Final Drive Ratio: 2.82 Features Transmission Features: Driver-selectable modes (Comfort/Sport), manual shifting via steering wheel buttons or gear selector (Touchshift). Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid Type: MB Specification 236.14 (or equivalent Dexterity II) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4535 mm (178.5 in) Width: 1815 mm (71.5 in) Height: 1309 mm (51.5 in) Wheelbase: 2560 mm (100.8 in) Front Track: 1536 mm (60.5 in) Rear Track: 1506 mm (59.3 in) Cargo Trunk Volume Hardtop Up: 330 Liters (11.7 cu ft) Trunk Volume Hardtop Down: 230 Liters (8.1 cu ft) Weights Curb Weight: 1770 kg (3902 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 2130 kg (4696 lbs) Payload Capacity: 360 kg (794 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Rating: Not Specifiable (Vehicle not tested under current NHTSA protocols for this year) IIHS Rating: Good (for its time, based on available data) Active Features Active Safety Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Bi-Xenon Headlights with Adaptive Light Control. Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Dual front airbags, Side airbags, Knee airbags, Rollover protection system (pop-up roll bars), Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters, ISOFIX child seat anchors (rear seats). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Entertainment System) with 6.5-inch color display. Audio System: Bose Premium Sound System (standard on SL500 Sport) with CD player and FM/AM radio. Navigation: Optional DVD-based navigation system. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC - optional), Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC - optional). Connectivity Connectivity Features: Voice control (LINGUATRONIC - optional), CD changer (optional), Telephone pre-wiring (optional). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (or as indicated by the Flexible Service System - ASSYST). Major Service Interval: Typically around 30,000 miles and 60,000 miles, involving inspection of various systems, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, spark plugs, and transmission service. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5) Engine Oil Capacity: 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) Coolant Type: Mercedes-Benz Antifreeze/Coolant (MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 - typically a silicate-free, blue/green formula mixed 50/50 with distilled water) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Plus (or MB Specification 331.0) Power Steering Fluid Type: MB Specification 343.0...