🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SL-Class Model Code: R230 Year: 2003 Codes Chassis Code: R230 Generation Generation Name: Third Generation R230 Generation Years: 2001-2011 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Flagship luxury grand tourer with advanced technology and performance. Competitive Analysis Competitors 2003: Porsche 911, BMW 6 Series (E63/E64), Jaguar XK8/XKR, Aston Martin DB7. Key Features Design: Elegant roadster design with retractable vario-roof (hardtop convertible). Technology: Introduction of Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, bi-xenon headlights, COMAND infotainment. Interior Quality: Premium materials, sophisticated interior design, and advanced comfort features. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All models and all repairs A-Z Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for all applicable engine variants. Transmission: Service, repair, and diagnostics for automatic transmissions. Suspension: Active suspension system (ABC) diagnosis, repair, and component replacement. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, ABS, ESP, brake pad/rotor replacement, fluid service. Electrical System: Comprehensive wiring diagrams, diagnosis of ECUs, sensors, actuators, lighting, and comfort systems. Body And Chassis: Convertible top mechanism (Vario-Roof), body panel repair, chassis components, climate control. Interior: Seat systems, dashboard, trim, and comfort features. Cooling System: Radiator, fans, coolant, thermostat, and related components. Fuel System: Fuel pump, injectors, lines, and emissions control. Exhaust System: Catalytic converters, mufflers, and exhaust manifolds. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts and fault code interpretation. Repair: Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems. Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures. Diagnosis: Advanced diagnostic techniques utilizing Mercedes-Benz specific tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis). Technical Depth Depth: Vehicle-specific and technician-level accuracy, not generic information. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format Detail: Likely a searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and illustrations. Print Quality Quality: High-quality digital reproduction of original factory documentation. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Variant: SL500 Engine Code: M113 Engine Type: 4.7L V8 SOHC (3 valves per cylinder) Performance Horsepower: 302 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME2.8) Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher) Technical Details Bore X Stroke: 97.0 mm x 79.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed automatic with Touchshift Transmission Code: 722.6 Features Transmission Features: Electronically controlled, adaptive shift programs, manual shifting mode. Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid Type: MB Specification 236.14 (e.g., Mobil ATF 134, Pentosin ATF1) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 176.7 inches (4488 mm) Width: 71.7 inches (1821 mm) Height: 52.0 inches (1321 mm) Wheelbase: 98.8 inches (2509 mm) Weights Curb Weight: 4045 lbs (1835 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4916 lbs (2230 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not rated (as typical for this class/era) IIHS Side Impact: Not rated (as typical for this class/era) Active Features Stability Control: Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Braking Assist: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS) Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags, side airbags, head protection airbags, rollover protection system. Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and belt force limiters. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with CD player, radio, optional navigation. Display: Central color display integrated into the dashboard. Driver Assistance Adaptive Cruise Control: Optional DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control. Parking Assist: Optional Parktronic parking sensors. Connectivity Telephony: Optional integrated hands-free telephone system (often requiring a specific phone cradle). Convenience Keyless Go: Optional Keyless-Go system for starting and accessing the vehicle. Comfort Features Seats: Multi-contour, heated, and ventilated front seats with memory function. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Variable, typically indicated by 'Service A' or 'Service B' via the instrument cluster (e.g., every 10,000 miles or 1 year). Major Service Interval: Refer to manual for specific mileage/time-based intervals for spark plugs, transmission fluid, etc. (e.g., transmission fluid often recommended around 60,000 miles). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic) Engine Oil Capacity: 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change Coolant Type: MB Specification 325.0 or 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0) Known Issues Abc Suspension: Leaking ABC hydraulic lines, strut failures, pump issues, ABC fluid degradation. Vario Roof: Hydraulic leaks in the roof system, micro-switch failures, pump or cylinder issues. Ignition Coils: Individual coil pack failures leading to misfires. Trunk Pump Failures: Failure of the electro-hydraulic pump unit for the trunk/convertible top. Mass Air Flow Sensor: Sensor can become contaminated or fail, affecting engine performance. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Heritage: Mercedes-Benz has a long and distinguished history of producing high-performance luxury sports cars and roadsters dating back to the Silver Arrows era and iconic models like the 300 SL 'Gullwing'. Model Evolution R230...