🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SLK-Class Internal Chassis Code: R170 Model Year: 1997 Codes Model Designation: SLK 230 Kompressor 👋 Introduction Market Position Class: Compact Premium Sports Roadster Competitive Analysis Competitors 1997: BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster (introduced later), Chevrolet Corvette (larger class but similar intent), Mazda Miata MX-5 (lower price point). Key Features Vario Roof: One of the R170's signature features is the electro-hydraulic 'Vario-roof' system, a retractable hardtop that transforms the car from a coupe to a roadster at the touch of a button. Compact Size: Compact dimensions for agile handling and a sporty driving experience. Mercedes Engineering: Represents Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact sports car segment, leveraging established brand quality and engineering. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Workshop Service Repair Manual Download Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds of pages Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable (likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Management: Detailed diagnosis, component testing, wiring diagrams, ECU functions, fuel injection, ignition systems. Transmission: Automatic Transmission (5-speed 5G-Tronic): operation, diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications, control module diagnostics. Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshafts, axle components, troubleshooting. Suspension: Front and rear suspension, steering system, diagnosis of noise and handling issues, component replacement (struts, control arms, bushings). Brakes: Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper repair, hydraulic system bleeding, brake fluid specifications. Electrical System: Complete wiring diagrams, fuse locations and assignments, relay functions, lighting system, power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, instrument cluster, battery and charging system. Body: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism (Vario-roof system) operation and repair, interior trim, exterior trim. Climate Control: HVAC system operation, diagnosis of cooling and heating issues, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core). Safety Systems: Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis, component replacement, safety precautions, seatbelt systems. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance procedures: oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, brake fluid flushes, coolant checks/changes. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault diagnosis, symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems. Repair: Step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all components, from minor adjustments to major overhauls. Diagnostics: OBD-II system diagnostics, fault code interpretation, specialized diagnostic tools and procedures. Overhaul: Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering all aspects of vehicle repair and maintenance from basic to advanced. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: Digital Download (likely PDF) Print Quality Printability: Designed for printing individual sections or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M111 E23 ML Configuration: Inline-4 Cylinder Displacement: 2.3 Liters (2295 cc) Aspiration: Supercharged (Roots-type Lysholm supercharger) Performance Horsepower Hp: 194 hp @ 5300 rpm Torque Lb Ft: 207 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91 RON or higher recommended) Engine Management ECU Type: Bosch Motronic M4.3 or similar Cooling System Coolant Type: Mercedes-Benz approved G48 Ethylene Glycol coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed Automatic (5G-Tronic) Optional Type: 5-speed Manual (not commonly specified for the 230 Kompressor in all markets, but available) Features Automatic Modes: Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., Mobil ATF LT 71141, Pentosin ATF 1) Fluid Capacity Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 Liters (including torque converter, dry fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 3995 mm (157.3 in) Width: Approx. 1717 mm (67.6 in) Height: Approx. 1293 mm (50.9 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2072 mm (81.6 in) Weights Curb Weight Kg: Approx. 1350 - 1400 kg (depending on equipment) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg: Approx. 1700 kg 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Standards: Meets or exceeds all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) for its era. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Esp: Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Traction Control: ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) often standard or integrated with ESP. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags. Side airbags may have been optional. Rollover Protection: Integrated roll bar structure behind the seats and pop-up roll-over bars behind the head restraints (deploy automatically if a rollover is detected). Seatbelts: Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. CD changer may have been an option. Speaker System: Standard 4 or 6-speaker system, premium sound optional. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control system. Connectivity Auxiliary Inputs: Not typically featured on factory systems of this era; aftermarket solutions available. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult specific manual for precise interval. Transmission Fluid Change: Recommended at 60,000 - 100,000 miles...