The 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R230) represented the pinnacle of luxury grand touring convertibles for its era, offering advanced technology and sophisticated design. This manual is targeted at owners and technicians who require accurate, factory-level information for maintaining and repairing this high-performance vehicle.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles such as the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, BMW Z8, and Jaguar XK8.
Key Features
Vehicle Features:
Retractable hardtop (Vario-roof), Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior appointments.
Manual Value
Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data, repair procedures, and diagnostic guidance to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL500, saving owners significant repair costs.
Not Applicable (Vehicle specific ratings may vary by region and time of testing)
IIHS Side Impact:
Not Applicable
Active Features
ABS:
Standard
Esp:
Standard (Electronic Stability Program)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver, Passenger, Side Airbags, Knee Airbags (where applicable)
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bars behind headrests
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system (optional), featuring CD player, radio, navigation, and optional Bose sound system.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ASR (Traction Control), Cruise Control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Early Bluetooth integration (optional), teleaid system (optional).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Transmission Fluid:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 miles (refer to specific service manual for exact interval).
Spark Plugs:
Every 100,000 miles (platinum or iridium plugs).
Air Filter:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic (MB-Approval 229.5)
Coolant:
Antifreeze/coolant (e.g., G-05 or equivalent), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (or MB-Approval 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Specification 343.0 (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic leaks and pump failures, transmission conductor plate issues, ignition coil failure, mass airflow sensor (MAF) problems, convertible top hydraulic cylinder leaks, window regulator issues, serpentine belt tensioner failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing legacy in producing iconic roadsters and luxury vehicles, dating back to the pre-war era and continuing through the 300SL 'Gullwing' and subsequent SL-Class generations.
Model Evolution
R230 Introduction:
The R230 SL-Class debuted in 2001 for the 2002 model year, replacing the R129. The 2000 model year falls within the R129 generation, but the product listing specifically refers to the R230 chassis. Assuming the listing has a typo and means the first year of the R230 SL500, which was 2003 in North America. If it truly refers to a 2000 R129, the engine would be the M113.980.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Bremen, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Awards:
The SL-Class has historically received numerous accolades for luxury, performance, and design from various automotive publications, although specific awards for the 2000 model year or early R230 generation might vary.
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