Driver and passenger airbags, side airbags, rollover protection bars (integrated behind seats), front crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette/CD player with optional Bose sound system. Later models may feature optional CD changer and improved head units.
Driver Assistance
Optional Features:
Parktronic parking assist system, optional navigation system (on later models).
Connectivity
Early Connectivity:
Limited by era; may include cellular phone integration (often requiring a separate cradle and module).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, 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 items like brake fluid replacement (every 2 years), coolant replacement (initially at 15 years, then every 3 years), spark plug replacement (typically 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
MB Spec 229.1 or 229.3 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 5W-40). Consult owner's manual for exact viscosity and spec based on engine.
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB Part No. Q1030000 or Q1030001), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Approved types are usually blue or green silicate-free.
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Spec 343.0 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, ignition coils, spark plug wires (on older models), O2 sensors, convertible top hydraulic lines/cylinders, front suspension bushings, wheel bearings, evaporator core (leading to AC leaks).
Convertible Top Issues:
Leaks due to worn seals, malfunctioning hydraulic cylinders, issues with the rollover bar sensors or actuators, pump failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mercedes Benz Heritage:
Renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and pioneering automotive innovations since its inception.
Model Evolution
R170 Introduction:
Introduced in 1996 as a compact roadster, featuring the innovative Vario-Roof retractable hardtop.
R170 Facelift:
Facelifted in 2000, introducing updated styling, new engine options (e.g., SLK320, SLK32 AMG), and interior revisions.
Successor Model:
R171 SLK-Class (introduced in 2004)
Production
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reception:
Received positive reviews for its innovative Vario-Roof and sporty character, winning 'Convertible of the Year' from some publications upon release.