🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SLK 320 Generation: R170 Production Years: 1996-2004 Chassis Code: R170 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The Mercedes-Benz SLK 320 (R170) represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact premium roadster segment, offering a blend of sporty performance, luxury, and innovative features like the Vario-Roof retractable hardtop. It competed with vehicles like the BMW Z3, Porsche Boxster, and Audi TT. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: The SLK 320 stood out with its integrated retractable hardtop, providing coupe-like security and quietness when the roof was up, a significant advantage over many soft-top rivals. Its V6 engine offered a smooth power delivery suited for comfortable touring, though some competitors offered sharper handling or more potent engines. Key Features Key Features: Vario-Roof (retractable hardtop), rear-wheel drive, premium interior appointments, strong safety features for its class, and the characteristic Mercedes-Benz build quality. The R170 platform was also notable for its innovative Varicontrol steering column and Braking System. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Applicable Years: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 Coverage Areas: All major mechanical, electrical, body, and systems of the Mercedes-Benz SLK 320 (R170). Manual Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language: English Format: PDF Delivery Method: Electronic (Email) Printable: Yes 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Systems Covered: Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Electrical System, Braking System, Steering System, Suspension System, Drivetrain, Transmission, Climate Control, Body, Interior, Convertible Roof Mechanism. Engine Overhaul: Complete procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, and valvetrain. Transmission Repair: Detailed instructions for the removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and installation of both the automatic and manual transmissions. Body And Chassis: Procedures for body panel repair, alignment, convertible top system maintenance and repair, interior trim removal and installation, and chassis component replacement. Procedures Procedures Included: Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Component Removal and Installation, Component Overhaul, Repair Procedures, Electrical System Diagnosis, Wiring Diagrams, Special Tool Identification and Use, Torque Specifications. Electrical Diagnostics: Detailed procedures for diagnosing and repairing all electrical systems, including lighting, starting and charging, instrument cluster, climate control, power accessories, and the Vario-Roof control module. Includes wiring diagrams. Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts, covering detailed repair and overhaul procedures. Technical Depth Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Systematic troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, utilizing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable, and guiding technicians through fault finding for various vehicle systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File File Format: PDF Print Quality: High-resolution, suitable for printing of individual pages or the entire manual. Binding Binding Type: N/A (Digital Delivery) Paper Paper Type: N/A (Digital Delivery) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M112 E32 Engine Type: 3.2L SOHC 18-valve V6 (Aluminum block and heads) Performance Horsepower: 215 hp @ 5700 rpm Torque: 229 lb-ft @ 3000-4500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane) Other Bore X Stroke: 89.9 mm x 84.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Valvetrain: SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Automatic (5G-Tronic) Optional Optional Transmission: 6-speed Manual (less common in the SLK 320) Features Automatic Features: TouchShift manual shifting mode 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 161.7 inches (4107 mm) Width: 68.3 inches (1735 mm) Height: 50.5 inches (1283 mm) Wheelbase: 81.5 inches (2070 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3075 - 3180 lbs (1395 - 1442 kg) Cargo Cargo Volume: Approx. 7.3 cu ft (roof up), 4.5 cu ft (roof down) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4-star NHTSA Side Impact: 4-star Active Features Active Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR), Electronic Stability Program (ESP). Passive Features Passive Features: Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags, rollover protection system (pop-up bars). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Available COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) system with CD player and navigation capabilities. Basic audio systems with AM/FM radio and cassette player were also common. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance: Standard features included ABS, ASR, and optional ESP. Cruise control was a common feature. Connectivity Connectivity: Limited by modern standards. Early models featured basic external phone integration. Later models might have had CD changers. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil). Major Service Interval: Refer to manual for specific intervals (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: MB 229.3 or 229.5 compliant synthetic 0W-40 or 5W-40 Coolant Type: Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 (Glysantin G05 or equivalent blue coolant) Transmission Fluid Type: MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 compliant ATF (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Pentosin ATF1) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Power Steering Fluid Type: MB specification 236.3 (ATF Dexron II or III) Known Issues Known Issues: Leaking valve cover gaskets, failing mass airflow sensors (MAF), issues with the Vario-Roof...