This comprehensive service and repair manual provides detailed instructions and illustrations for maintaining, servicing, diagnosing and repairing your 1996-2004 Mercedes SLK (R170). This manual covers all models and all repairs, offering the same information used by technicians at Mercedes dealerships. You'll find complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications that will guide you through every repair with ease.

This manual includes everything you need to keep your SLK in top condition. It covers a wide range of topics, including:

* Maintenance: Learn how to perform routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks.
* Engine: Diagnose and repair engine problems, including issues with the fuel system, ignition system, and emissions control.
* Control Systems: Understand and troubleshoot the complex electronic control systems that govern your vehicle's performance.
* Mechanical: Find detailed information on repairing the transmission, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, steering and other mechanical components.
* Fuel Service Specifications: Access detailed specifications for fuel types, fuel pressures, and other critical information related to your vehicle's fuel system.
* Emission Control: Learn about the emission control system and how to diagnose and repair issues related to emissions.
* Intake Exhaust Cooling: Find comprehensive information on the intake, exhaust, and cooling systems.
* Lube: Get detailed information on the type and quantity of lubricants recommended for your vehicle.
* Ignition Starting Charging: Diagnose and repair problems with the ignition system, starter, and charging system.
* Auto Transmission Clutch: Learn how to service and repair the automatic transmission and clutch.
* Manual Transmission: Find detailed instructions for servicing and repairing the manual transmission.
* Transfer Propeller Shaft: Get detailed information on the transfer case, propeller shaft, and related components.
* Drive Shaft: Diagnose and repair problems with the drive shaft.
* Differential: Service and repair the differential.
* Axle Suspension: Learn how to inspect, diagnose, and repair the suspension system.
* Tire & Wheel: Find information on tire selection, maintenance, and wheel repair.
* Brake Control: Understand the brake control system and troubleshoot any issues.
* Brake: Learn how to inspect, diagnose, and repair the brake system.
* Parking Brake: Service and repair the parking brake.
* Steering Column: Diagnose and repair problems related to the steering column.
* Power Steering: Learn how to inspect, diagnose, and repair the power steering system.
* Air Condition: Diagnose and repair problems with the air conditioning system.
* Supplemental Restraint System: Understand the supplemental restraint system (airbags) and how it works.
* Seat Belt: Learn how to inspect, diagnose, and repair the seat belt system.
* Engine Immobilizer: Troubleshoot issues with the engine immobilizer system.
* Cruise Control: Diagnose and repair problems with the cruise control system.
* Wiper & Washer: Find information on inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing the windshield wiper and washer system.
* Door Lock: Learn how to diagnose and repair problems with the door lock system.
* Meter Audio/Visual: Understand the instrument cluster and related systems.
* Horn: Diagnose and repair problems with the horn.
* Windshield/Glass Mirror: Find information on replacing and repairing the windshield, glass, and mirrors.
* Instrument Panel: Diagnose and repair problems with the instrument panel.
* Seat: Learn how to adjust, repair, and replace the seats.
* Engine Hood/ Door: Find information on repairing and replacing the engine hood and doors.
* Exterior & Interior: Troubleshoot issues with the exterior and interior of the vehicle.
* Electrical: Diagnose and repair electrical problems.
* Multiplex/ Can Communication: Understand the multiplex and can communication systems.

This manual provides a comprehensive guide for anyone who wants to learn more about their Mercedes SLK or perform their own repairs.

The 1996-2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (R170) is a compact roadster, renowned for its sleek design and sporty handling. This first-generation SLK, codenamed R170, introduced the world to a new breed of Mercedes-Benz – one that blended luxury with driving excitement in a smaller, more affordable package. The distinctive pop-up headlights, a signature feature of the R170, quickly became an iconic emblem of the model. Underneath its stylish exterior, the SLK boasted a range of powerful engines, including the 2.3-liter four-cylinder, the 2.8-liter V6, and the 3.2-liter V6, delivering impressive performance for its time. The SLK's rigid chassis, combined with its precise steering and well-tuned suspension, provided a rewarding driving experience, allowing it to carve through corners with confidence.

Beyond its performance prowess, the R170 SLK offered a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and thoughtful touches. The driver-focused cockpit, with its ergonomic layout and comprehensive instrumentation, added to the car's overall appeal. The SLK's practicality was enhanced by its folding hardtop roof, a feature that allowed for open-air driving in warmer months and a comfortable, weatherproof cabin when needed. The introduction of the SLK marked an important milestone for Mercedes-Benz, as it expanded the brand's reach to a younger and more enthusiastic clientele who sought a combination of luxurious comfort and sporting performance. The R170 SLK quickly gained a devoted following and established itself as a benchmark in the compact roadster segment, setting the stage for the successful evolution of the SLK model line.