🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SL-Class Model Variant: SL500 Year: 2004 Codes Chassis Code: R230 Engine Code Prefix: M113 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Luxury Grand Tourer / Roadster Target Audience: Affluent consumers seeking performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology in a convertible sports car. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, BMW 6 Series Convertible, Jaguar XK Convertible, Chevrolet Corvette Convertible Key Features Body Style: Retractable Hardtop Convertible (Vario-Roof) Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) Suspension: Active Body Control (ABC) standard Predecessor: R129 SL-Class 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Focus: Owner Information and Operation Secondary Focus: Basic Maintenance and Specifications Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for Mercedes-Benz owner manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine operation, fuel information, engine oil, battery, air filter, refill capacities, lubricant specifications Chassis: Brakes (general operation), suspension (general operation), steering (general operation), wheels and tires (general operation) Electrical And Electronics: Instrument cluster, lighting systems, entertainment systems, climate controls, driver controls, locks and security Body And Interior: Seating, safety restraints, interior controls, convertible top operation (implied for SL-Class) Procedures Included Operation: Startup and shutdown, driving techniques, using vehicle features, parking, emergency procedures Maintenance: Routine checks (oil, coolant, tire pressure), fluid replacement guidance, filter replacement guidance, basic cleaning instructions Troubleshooting: Warning lamps and indicators, basic fault identification (e.g., battery issues) Technical Depth Depth: Owner-level information, focusing on safe operation, understanding vehicle functions, and basic maintenance. Does not cover in-depth diagnostics or repair procedures, which would be found in a service manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, factory-quality reproduction Binding Type Type: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) Paper Type Type: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated V8 Displacement: 5.0 Liters (4966 cc) Bore X Stroke: 97.0 mm x 84.0 mm Valve Train: Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC), 3 Valves per Cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust) Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 Performance Horsepower: 302 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm Fuel System System: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6) Modes: Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes Features Torque Converter: Lock-up torque converter 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 171.5 inches (4356 mm) Width: 71.3 inches (1811 mm) Height: 52.2 inches (1326 mm) Wheelbase: 98.7 inches (2507 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 4,079 lbs (1850 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 5,137 lbs (2330 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not explicitly rated in a comparable manner to modern standards, but designed to meet or exceed all federal safety standards. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Esp: Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Traction Control: Traction Control System (TCS) Abc: Active Body Control (ABC) - enhances stability and ride comfort Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags, side airbags, head airbags (pelvis side airbags in seat backs) Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters Rollover Protection: Automatically deploying rollover protection system (pop-up roll bars) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment System: COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) Features: AM/FM/Weatherband radio, CD player, optional navigation system, optional Bose premium audio system. Driver Assistance Features: Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, automatic climate control, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers. Connectivity Features: Voice control system (LINGUATRONIC), optional telematics system (Tele-Aid/Tele-Service). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact ASSYST service codes). Major Service Intervals: Intervals for spark plug replacement, brake fluid changes, and other major services are specified by the ASSYST system and detailed in the manual (e.g., Service A, Service B). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: SAE 0W-40 synthetic engine oil, meeting MB 229.5 specification (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40) Coolant: MB approved coolant concentrate (e.g., Mercedes-Benz G48) mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio. Transmission Fluid: MB 236.14 specification Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) for 722.6 transmission. Brake Fluid: DOT 4 Plus (MB approved specification, e.g., MB 331.0). Power Steering Fluid: MB approved hydraulic fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent). Known Issues Common Issues: ABC suspension hydraulic leaks, trunk hydraulics failure (for soft top operation), SAM module (Signal Acquisition Module) issues, ignition coil failures, biodegradable wiring insulation degradation (on some models, less common for 2004). Part Numbers Oil Filter: Typical part number: Hiflofiltro HF1004, Mann-Filter HU830x, or Mercedes-Benz OE part (e.g., A2711800109 for some variants, check VIN for exact fitment). Air Filter: Typical part number: Mann-Filter C35174/1, K&N 33-2452, or Mercedes-Benz OE part (e.g., A1130940201). Refill Capacities Engine Oil Capacity: Approximately 8.5 liters (9.0 US quarts) with filter change. Coolant Capacity: Approximately 10.5 liters (11.1 US quarts). 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Heritage: Mercedes-Benz...