🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SL-Class Model Variant: SL550 Year: 2008 Codes Chassis Code: R230 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Luxury Grand Tourer Convertible (Roadster) Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: BMW 6 Series Convertible, Jaguar XK Convertible, Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, Aston Martin Vantage Roadster Key Features Vehicle Highlights: Retractable hardtop (Vario-Roof), powerful V8 engine, advanced suspension (ABC), premium interior materials, sophisticated technology, distinctive styling 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Sections: Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 400-500 pages (typical for this model and year) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Vehicle Systems: Engine (M273 V8), Transmission (7G-TRONIC), Braking System (ABS, ESP, SBC), Suspension (ABC - Active Body Control), Steering, Electrical System (12V), Lighting (Xenon, LED), HVAC, Infotainment (COMAND, Harman Kardon), Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts), Security System, Power Retractable Hardtop (Vario-Roof), Power Windows, Power Seats, Door Locks, Instrument Cluster and Displays, Driver Assistance Systems (optional) Procedures Included Operational Procedures: Starting and operating the vehicle, understanding dashboard indicators and warnings, operating infotainment and climate controls, adjusting seating and mirrors, using safety restraints, operating the Vario-Roof, locking and securing the vehicle, basic troubleshooting for common alerts, vehicle cleaning procedures, fluid level checks, tire pressure monitoring, refueling procedures Technical Depth Technical Detail Level: Covers operation, basic checks, and maintenance. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in a factory service manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Digital Quality: High-resolution scan of original factory manual, ensuring readability of text and diagrams. Binding Type Physical Binding: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Paper Type Physical Paper: Not Applicable (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Displacement Configuration: M273.968 / 5.5L (5461cc) V8 Performance Horsepower: 382 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 391 lb-ft @ 2800-4000 rpm Fuel System Induction Fuel Delivery: Naturally Aspirated / Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine Oil Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 0W-40 Oil Capacity With Filter: Approx. 8.5 liters (9 US quarts) Fuel Information Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher) Air Filter Part Number Example: A2730940501 (Check specific vehicle VIN for exact fitment) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic Features Transmission Modes: Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid Type: MB Specification 236.14 (e.g., ATF 7134FE) Refill Capacities Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approx. 8.0 liters (check manual for exact fill procedure) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4527 mm (178.2 in) Width: Approx. 1815 mm (71.5 in) Height: Approx. 1317 mm (51.9 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1945 kg (4288 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 2300 kg (5070 lbs) Cargo Trunk Volume Hardtop Up: Approx. 335 liters (11.8 cu ft) Trunk Volume Hardtop Down: Approx. 202 liters (7.1 cu ft) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rating: Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific model year/variant as it was a low-volume luxury vehicle; however, it incorporated advanced safety features for its time. Active Features Active Safety Systems: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Bi-Xenon Headlights with Active Curve Illumination, Headlight Washers Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags, knee airbags, rollover protection system (pop-up bars), seatbelt pre-tensioners, active head restraints (NECK-PRO) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Primary Infotainment System: COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) APS with integrated CD/DVD player, Radio, Navigation system, and optional Bluetooth connectivity. Audio System: Harman Kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound system (optional, standard on some trims). Driver Assistance Advanced Driver Assistance: Distronic (adaptive cruise control) and Parktronic (parking assist) were available as optional features. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Optional Bluetooth telephony integration for hands-free calling. Media Interface (pre-wiring for iPod/USB) may be present depending on option packages. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (or as indicated by the 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicator on the instrument cluster). Major Service Intervals: Refer to 'Service B' for more comprehensive checks, typically around 20,000 miles or 24 months. Specific items like transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant have longer, mileage-based intervals as detailed in the manual or service advisor. Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0) Coolant Type: Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or G48 based, typically a blue-green color) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Power Steering Fluid: Hydraulic fluid meeting MB Specification 343.0 (often a green color) Known Issues Common Wear And Tear Items: Active Body Control...
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 400-500 pages (typical for this model and year)
Manual Type
Type:
Owner's Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Vehicle Systems:
Engine (M273 V8), Transmission (7G-TRONIC), Braking System (ABS, ESP, SBC), Suspension (ABC - Active Body Control), Steering, Electrical System (12V), Lighting (Xenon, LED), HVAC, Infotainment (COMAND, Harman Kardon), Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts), Security System, Power Retractable Hardtop (Vario-Roof), Power Windows, Power Seats, Door Locks, Instrument Cluster and Displays, Driver Assistance Systems (optional)
Procedures Included
Operational Procedures:
Starting and operating the vehicle, understanding dashboard indicators and warnings, operating infotainment and climate controls, adjusting seating and mirrors, using safety restraints, operating the Vario-Roof, locking and securing the vehicle, basic troubleshooting for common alerts, vehicle cleaning procedures, fluid level checks, tire pressure monitoring, refueling procedures
Technical Depth
Technical Detail Level:
Covers operation, basic checks, and maintenance. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in a factory service manual.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scan of original factory manual, ensuring readability of text and diagrams.
A2730940501 (Check specific vehicle VIN for exact fitment)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic
Features
Transmission Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Specification 236.14 (e.g., ATF 7134FE)
Refill Capacities
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 liters (check manual for exact fill procedure)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4527 mm (178.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1815 mm (71.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1317 mm (51.9 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1945 kg (4288 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2300 kg (5070 lbs)
Cargo
Trunk Volume Hardtop Up:
Approx. 335 liters (11.8 cu ft)
Trunk Volume Hardtop Down:
Approx. 202 liters (7.1 cu ft)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific model year/variant as it was a low-volume luxury vehicle; however, it incorporated advanced safety features for its time.
Active Features
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Bi-Xenon Headlights with Active Curve Illumination, Headlight Washers
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags, knee airbags, rollover protection system (pop-up bars), seatbelt pre-tensioners, active head restraints (NECK-PRO)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Primary Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) APS with integrated CD/DVD player, Radio, Navigation system, and optional Bluetooth connectivity.
Audio System:
Harman Kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound system (optional, standard on some trims).
Driver Assistance
Advanced Driver Assistance:
Distronic (adaptive cruise control) and Parktronic (parking assist) were available as optional features.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth telephony integration for hands-free calling. Media Interface (pre-wiring for iPod/USB) may be present depending on option packages.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (or as indicated by the 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicator on the instrument cluster).
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to 'Service B' for more comprehensive checks, typically around 20,000 miles or 24 months. Specific items like transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant have longer, mileage-based intervals as detailed in the manual or service advisor.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or G48 based, typically a blue-green color) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Hydraulic fluid meeting MB Specification 343.0 (often a green color)
Known Issues
Common Wear And Tear Items:
Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic system leaks or pump failure, Vario-Roof hydraulic cylinder leaks or control module issues, ignition coil failures, mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, oil cooler leaks, transmission conductor plate failures (less common on later R230 models).
Preventative Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check and maintain ABC fluid and filter, inspect Vario-Roof seals, follow recommended service intervals strictly, use genuine Mercedes-Benz or OEM-equivalent parts.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, safety, and innovation in the automotive industry.
Model Evolution
Sl Class Lineage:
The SL-Class has a storied history dating back to the iconic 300 SL 'Gullwing' of the 1950s, evolving into a premium roadster known for its advanced technology and performance.
Production
R230 Production Years:
2001-2011 (facelifted in 2006, the SL550 replaced the SL500 for 2007 model year)
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Accolades:
While specific awards for the 2008 SL550 variant are not widely publicized, the SL-Class consistently receives accolades for its luxury, performance, and technological advancements from automotive publications and consumer reviews throughout its production run.