Mercedes-Benz SL 320 Operator's Manual
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Mercedes-Benz SL 320 Operator's Manual

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Summary of Contents for Mercedes-Benz SL 320

  • Page 1 Mercedes-Benz SL Operator's Manual SL 320 SL 500 SL 600...

  • Page 2: Product Information

    Use of such parts and accessories could adversely affect the safety, performance or reliability of your vehicle. Please do not use them. Mercedes-Benz original parts as well as conversion parts and accessories approved by us are available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center where you will receive comprehensive information, also on permissible technical modifications, and where proper installation will be performed.

  • Page 3: Operator's Manual

    If you have any questions about the operation of any equipment, your authorized Mercedes- Benz Center will be glad to demonstrate the proper procedures. Service and warranty information The Service and Warranty Information Booklet contains detailed information about the warranties covering your Mercedes-Benz, including: • New Car Limited Warranty, •...
  • Page 4 Important notice for California retail buyers of Mercedes-Benz automobiles Under California law you may be entitled to a replacement of your vehicle or a refund of the purchase price, if Mercedes-Benz USA,LLC or its authorized Mercedes-Benz Center fails to conform the vehicle to its express warranties after a reasonable number of repair attempts during the period of one year or 12 000 miles from original delivery of the vehicle.
  • Page 5 If you change your address, be sure to send in the "Change of Address Notice" found in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet, or simply call the Mercedes-Benz Client Assistance Center (in the USA) at 1-800-FOR-MERCedes, or Customer Service (in Canada) at 1-800-387-0100.
  • Page 6 We continuously strive to improve our product, and ask for your understanding that we reserve the right to make changes in design and equipment. Therefore, information, illustrations and descriptions in this Operator's Manual might differ from your vehicle. Optional equipment is also described in this manual, including operating instructions wherever necessary. Since they are special-order items, the descriptions and illustrations herein may vary slightly from the actual equipment of your vehicle.
  • Page 7 Booklet may result in vehicle damage telephone or a citizens band unit, by manually shifting to a lower gear. not covered by the Mercedes-Benz. should only be used inside the vehicle We recommend to select positions "3", Limited Warranty.

  • Page 8: Table Of Contents

    Introduction Anti-Theft Alarm System Interior Lighting Orthopedic Seat Backrest Product information Rear Window Defroster Heated Seats Operator's manual Power Windows Armrest Consumer Information Roll Bar Adjusting steering column Problems with your vehicle Hardtop Seat Belts and Supplemental Reporting Safety Defects Soft top restraint system (SRS) Seat belts...
  • Page 9 Spare Wheel Lamp Warranty Coverage First Aid Kit Roll Bar Warning Lamp Technical Data Seat Belt and Backrest Lock Stowing Things in Vehicle SL 320 Warning Lamp Vehicle Jack SL 500 Vehicle Tools Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator Lamp SL 600 Wheels Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants etc.

  • Page 10: Instruments And Controls

    Instruments and Controls For more detailed descriptions see Index. Adjustable air outlet Air volume control for right air outlet Exterior lamp switch Automatic climate control Parking brake release Radio Hood lock release Rear window defroster switch Parking brake pedal Indicator lamp for Anti-theft alarm system Combination switch Hazard warning flasher switch Cruise control...

  • Page 12: Instrument Cluster

    Instrument Cluster 1 Fuel gauge with reserve warning lamp (yellow). See Index. 9 Trip odometer. See Index 2 Coolant temperature gauge. See Index. 10 Main odometer 3 Fuel consumption gauge. See Index. 11 Outside temperature indicator. See Index. 4 Engine Oil pressure gauge (bar) with warning lamp (red). See Index. 12 Right turn signal indicator lamp (green) 5 Left turn signal indicator lamp (green) 13 Knob for setting clock.

  • Page 13: Indicator Lamp Symbols

    Indicator Lamp Symbols Function Indicator Lamp High beam ETS malfunction. See Index. Warning Lamp Exterior lamp failure. See Index. (should go out with the engine running unless) Brake pads worn down. See Index. ASR or ETS. Battery not being charged properly. See Index Adjust driving to road condition.

  • Page 14: Catalytic Converter

    Catalytic Converter Caution! Warning! Your MERCEDES-BENZ is equipped To prevent damage to the catalytic As with any vehicle, do not idle, park with monolithic type catalytic converters, use only premium unleaded or operate this vehicle in areas where converters, an important element in gasoline in this vehicle.

  • Page 15: Starting And Turning Off The Engine

    “P”. be installed. Your authorized Do not depress accelerator. Mercedes-Benz dealer will advise you If the coolant temperature is very high Turn key in steering lock clock-wise to on this subject.

  • Page 16: Driving Instructions

    After hard braking, it is advisable to maintenance. drive on for some time, rather than All checks and maintenance work on immediately parking, so the air stream the brake system should be carried out will cool down the brakes faster. by an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.
  • Page 17 Aquaplaning Depending on the depth of the water Warning! layer on the road, aquaplaning may Do not allow your tires to wear occur, even at low speeds and with new down too far. As tread depth tires. Reduce vehicle speed, avoid track approaches in (1.5 mm), the grooves in the road and apply brakes...
  • Page 18 Tire Traction Tire Speed Rating Parking The safe speed on a wet, snow covered Your vehicle is factory equipped with Warning! or icy road is always lower than on a "Z"-rated tires. To reduce the risk of personal dry road. Despite the tire rating, local speed injury as a result of vehicle You should pay particular attention to...
  • Page 19 Winter Driving Instructions If the vehicle is parked after being Passenger Compartment driven on salt treated roads, the braking The most important rule for slippery or efficiency should be tested as soon as Warning! icy roads is to drive sensibly and to possible after driving is resumed while avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and Always fasten items being carried as...

  • Page 21: Operation

    Operation...

  • Page 22: Automatic Climate Control

    7 Air volume control for center air outlet, turn left to open 8 Center air outlet, adjustable 9 Heated air supply button center air outlet (red indicator lamp) 10 Non-heated/cooled air supply button for center air outlet (blue indicator lamp) 11 Air volume control for left air outlet, turn left to open 12 Left air outlet, adjustable...
  • Page 23 Notes: The automatic climate control removes Important! considerable moisture from the air The temperature selected with the This vehicle is equipped with an air during operation in the cooling mode. temperature selector is reached as conditioner system that uses HF-134a It is normal for water to drip on the quickly as possible.
  • Page 24 4 Function Selection Buttons Defogging Windows Defrost Switch on Normal Setting Switch off Maximum heated and automatically Air volume and distribution are controlled amount of air is directed to controlled automatically. the windshield and side windows. As the engine coolant temperature To select: Economy increases, a higher blower stage is...
  • Page 25 • after approx. 20 minutes, at Residual Engine Heat • after approx. 30 minutes, outside temperatures above • if the engine coolant temperature Utilization approx. 40°F (5°C). drops below 122°F (50°C), With the engine switched off, it is If button is pressed: •...

  • Page 26: Car Keys

    The transmitter for the infrared remote Mercedes-Benz dealer. control is located in the key holder, the receivers are located next to the door locks and below the trunk lock.

  • Page 27: Infrared Remote Control

    Infrared Remote Control Starter Lock-Out important! Locking the vehicle activates the starter lock-out. The engine can only be started, if the vehicle was unlocked from the outside. 3 Receiver in door handle 1 Transmit button 2 Transmitter eye and battery Unlocking: check Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver...
  • Page 28 Locking: Closing Windows from Outside Continue to press transmit button (1) Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver (3) and press transmit button (1). after locking car. Distance to receiver max. 10 ft (3 m). Distance to receiver max. 20 ft (6 m). The red indicator lamps on the The windows begin to close after receivers should blink.

  • Page 29: Central Locking System

    is interrupted (battery disconnected or empty). Doing so could damage the window frame. The power windows should first be resynchronized. See Index. Locking - from outside • With driver's door closed - turn key to the right (3). • With passenger's door closed -turn key to the left.
  • Page 30 Separate Locking and Unlocking of Note: Trunk The central locking system can only be If the trunk is to remain locked (e.g. engaged at the passenger door if the when leaving the car at a parking key is removed from the steering lock garage or workshop), lock the trunk or is inserted in the steering lock separately.
  • Page 31 Important! Closing Windows from Outside Emergency Unlocking in Case of Accident Separately locking the trunk with a key Turn key in door lock or trunk lock to The doors unlock automatically a short will activate the starter lockout, even if the locking position 3 and hold.

  • Page 32: Interior Central Locking System

    Note: • rear storage compartments, If the interior storage compartments are • door pockets. to remain locked (for example while in Integration with Vehicle Central a repair shop), leave only the valet key Locking System with the vehicle. When locking or unlocking the vehicle When unlocking a door from the from the outside by using the master inside, on a vehicle previously locked...

  • Page 33: Anti-Theft Alarm System

    The alarm will last approximately 150 Anti-Theft Alarm System seconds in the form of blinking The anti-theft alarm is automatically exterior lamps. At the same time an armed or disarmed with any of your alarm horn will sound intermittently vehicle's keys or infrared remote for 60 seconds, pause for 30 seconds, control by locking or unlocking either and repeat for another 60 seconds.
  • Page 34 Do not adjust the driver's seat while Adjust the head restraint so that the driving. Adjusting the seat while upper portion of the shoulder belt is driving could cause the driver to lose located as close as possible to the control of the vehicle.
  • Page 35 Adjusting Recalling Stored Positions Warning! Using the same position button, the Never ride in a moving vehicle with steering column position and rear view Press position button "1", "2" or "3" A Seat cushion the seat back reclined. Sitting in an mirror positions will also be stored and hold until seat/head restraint/ steering wheel/mirror movement has...
  • Page 36 If both backrests are locked in place in place with the vehicle in motion. and the warning lamp does not go out, Do not drive the car when the seat- have the system checked at your back is not locked in place. authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer immediately.

  • Page 37: Orthopedic Seat Backrest

    Orthopedic Seat Backrest have the system checked at your Do not drive the car when the seat- to this setting when the engine is authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer restarted back is not locked in place. 1 Pressure regulator immediately.

  • Page 38: Heated Seats

    Press switch to turn on heater: Note: When in operation, the seat heater 1 Normal heating mode. One indicator lamp in the switch consumes a large amount of power. It lights up. is advisable not to use the seat heater longer than necessary.

  • Page 39: Armrest

    Storing Steering Column Position in Memory The steering column position is stored in memory together with the seat/head restraint/mirror position and can be recalled when necessary, see Index. Warning! Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. Adjusting the steering wheel while driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

  • Page 40: Seat Belts And Supplemental Restraint System (Srs)

    Seat Belts and Supplemental Warning! Never ride in a moving vehicle with Restraint System (SRS) the seat back reclined. Sitting in an If you are ever in an accident, your excessively reclined position can be injuries can be considerably more Your vehicle is equipped with lap- dangerous.
  • Page 41 Press switch (4) to adjust seat belt so that the shoulder portion is located as close as possible to the middle of your shoulder. The shoulder portion of the seat belt must be pulled snug and checked for snugness immediately after engaging it and during driving.
  • Page 42 Note: Unfastening of Seat Belts For cleaning and care of the seat belts, Push in the red button (3) in the belt see Upholstery in Index. buckle (2). Allow the retractor to completely rewind the seat belt by guiding the latch plate (1).
  • Page 43 Warning! USE CHILD RESTRAINTS • Position the lap belt as low PROPERLY. as possible on your hips USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY, and not across the • Infants and small children • Each occupant should wear abdomen. If the belt is must be seated in an infant their seat belt at all times.

  • Page 44: Emergency Tensioning Retractor

    In cases of other frontal impacts, roll- Supplemental Restraint System Emergency Tensioning overs, certain side impacts, rear Retractor (ETR) (SRS) collisions, or other accidents without The SRS uses two crash severity levels The seat belts are equipped with frontal forces, the emergency (thresholds) to activate either the ETR emergency tensioning retractors.

  • Page 45: Airbags

    Airbags The most effective occupant restraint system yet developed for use in production vehicles is the seat belt. In some cases, however, the protective effect of a seat belt can be further enhanced by an airbag. The driver airbag (1) is located in the steering wheel hub.
  • Page 46 In the event a malfunction of the should be inspected by an authorized "SRS" is indicated as outlined above, Mercedes-Benz dealer at that time the "SRS" may not be operational. We and replaced when necessary. strongly recommend that you visit an...
  • Page 47 Warning! Since the airbag inflates with • Infants and small children considerable speed and force, a should only be seated in an It is very important for your safety proper seating position will keep you infant or child restraint to always be in a properly seated in a safe distance from the airbag: which is properly secured position and to wear your seat belt.
  • Page 48 Work on the "SRS" must Warning! additional trim material, badges therefore only be performed by etc. over the steering wheel hub an authorized Mercedes-Benz • Damaged belts or belts that were or front passenger airbag cover dealer. highly stressed in an accident...
  • Page 49 Infants and Child Restraint Warning! When the child restraint is not in use, Systems remove it from the car or secure it Rear-facing child restraints must not with the seat belt to prevent the child We recommend that all infants and be used in a front seat They could be restraint from becoming a projectile children be restrained at all times while...

  • Page 50: Steering Lock

    1 Steering is unlocked. Notes: (If necessary, move steering wheel A warning sounds when the driver's slightly to allow the key to be door is opened with the key in steering turned clockwise to position 1.) lock positions 1 or 0. Most electrical consumers can be With the engine at idle speed, the operated.

  • Page 51: Exterior Lamp Switch

    Standing Lamps When the vehicle is parked on the street the standing lamps (right or left Parking lamps (includes side side parking lamps) can be turned on, marker lamps, tail-lamps, making the vehicle more visible to license plate lamps, instrument passing vehicles.

  • Page 52: Combination Switch

    6 Press switch briefly: One wipe without washer water (select only if window is wet) Press switch past resistance point: Windshield washer, windshield wiper; headlamp cleaning system (only in exterior lamp switch positions Canada only: also in position when the engine is running) 7 Windshield wiper 0 Wiper off...
  • Page 53 Have the system checked at your If the windshield wiper smears the sounds at a faster than normal rate. In authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as windshield, even during rain, activate addition, the exterior lamp failure soon as possible.

  • Page 54: Exterior Rear View Mirrors

    Warning! Exercise care when using the passenger-side mirror. The passenger-side exterior mirror is convex (outwardly curved surface for a wider field of view). Objects in mirror are closer than they appear. Check your inside rear view mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.

  • Page 55: Sun Visors

    Antiglare Night Position With the key in steering lock position 2, the mirror reflection brightness responds to changes in light sensitivity. Storing Mirror Positions In Memory The interior rear view mirror positions are stored in memory with the seat/head restraint/ steering column position and can be recalled when necessary, see Index.

  • Page 56: Instrument Lamps

    Instrument Lamps Rotate adjusting knob (1) to vary intensity of instrument lamps. Display Illumination Press adjusting knob to briefly illuminate the display (with key removed or in steering lock position 0 or 1). With exterior lamps switched on the display illumination becomes automatically dim.

  • Page 57: Storage Compartment (Eyeglasses Compartment) In The Dashboard

    Opening compartment (1): Press button (2). Note: The storage compartments and door pockets may be locked and unlocked by using the master key in lock (3). For interior central locking system see Index. Locking: Turn master key in lock (3) to the right and remove.

  • Page 58: Rear Storage Compartments

    Door Pockets Rear Storage Compartments Lighter To open: Lift cover. To open compartment: Press button (1) 1 Cover and lift cover. 2 Lighter Turn key in steering lock to position 1 or 2. Slide cover (1) forward. Push in lighter (2); it will pop out automatically when hot.

  • Page 59: Interior Lighting

    Entrance Lamps, Exit Lamps Entrance lamps are located in the footwells under the dashboard. Exit lamps are located in the door pockets. These lamps are switched on and off by the door contact switches. Note: To prevent the vehicle battery from being discharged, do not leave doors open for a long period of time.

  • Page 60: Rear Window Defroster

    Note: The rear window defroster uses a large amount of power. To keep the battery drain to a minimum, turn off the defroster as soon as the window is clear. The defroster is automatically turned off after a maximum of 20 minutes of operation.

  • Page 61: Power Windows

    Synchronizing Power Windows Press switch past resistance point and release - window lowers to fully With ignition key in steering lock open position. To interrupt position 2, press side of power procedure, briefly press window switch until the window is completely closed and hold for additional 2 seconds.
  • Page 62 • the soft top is closed and pets are Have the system checked at your at least 5 seconds) until the roll bar placed in the rear storage area. authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer drive mechanism audibly engages. as soon as possible. Then press the lower half of the switch Items being transported in the area to lower the roll bar.

  • Page 63: Hardtop

    Hardtop The removal or attachment of the hardtop can be carried out by 2 persons. Warning! Do not place your hands between the hardtop and the car body while the hardtop is being locked or unlocked. Serious personal injury may occur. Removing Hardtop Please note, if soft top switch is activated after 10 sec.
  • Page 64 5. After the hardtop has unlocked Important! 6. Lift the hardtop vertically from its remove the key from the steering Removal of the key from the steering attachment points (3) and locating lock and turn radio off to lower lock is a safety measure ensuring that points (4) and carefully remove to the antenna.
  • Page 65 Attaching Hardtop 5. From the rear of the vehicle, lift 6. Turn key in steering lock to the hardtop carefully over the position 2. The indicator lamp 1. Engage parking brake and turn attachment points (1) and locating in the soft top switch lights up. key in steering lock to position 2, points (2).
  • Page 66 2, have the system checked at your 8. Connect plug (4) for rear window • Slide soft/hardtop switch forward. authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as defroster. Do not drive the car with the soon as possible. hardtop not locked, as that could...

  • Page 67: Soft Top

    Soft Top • The side windows lower. • The roll bar lowers. A minimum height clearance of 2 • The indicator lamp in the soft top meters (6.5 ft) is required to lower or switch lights up. raise the soft top. •...
  • Page 68 4. Slide soft top switch (2) forward and hold: • The side windows lower. • The roll bar lowers. • The indicator lamp in the soft top switch lights up. • The soft top closes and locks. Note: If the soft top does not engage in the windshield header attachment points, then release the soft top switch.
  • Page 69 Have the system checked at your • if the indicator lamp in the soft while driving by pushing the authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soft/hardtop switch forward. top switch does not go out (key in soon as possible.

  • Page 70: Wind Screen

    Wind Screen Installation 3. Slide wind screen up into roll bar 4. Raise roll bar completely. 1. Raise roll bar partially using (1), using care not to get the switch on center console. 5. Wrap attachment straps around attachment straps (2) caught. roll bar and insert tabs into 2.
  • Page 71 The wind screen can be stored in a vehicle is a 2 seater. Furthermore, trunk mounted container, obtainable at with the wind screen in place there is your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. a risk of injury, should the roll bar be deployed.

  • Page 72: Antenna

    For driver from using a cellular further information and installation telephone while driving a vehicle. Note: contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz Therefore, for safety reasons, the To retract the antenna (e.g. when dealer. driver should not use the cellular...

  • Page 73: Driving

    Driving...

  • Page 74: Drinking And Driving

    Driving Off Drinking and Driving Test the brakes briefly after driving off. Warning! Perform this procedure only when the road is clear of other traffic. Drinking and driving can be a very dangerous combination. Even a Warm up the engine smoothly. Do not small amount of alcohol or drugs place full load on the engine until the can affect your reflexes, perceptions...

  • Page 75: Automatic Transmission

    Automatic Transmission the brake until ready to drive. The Accelerator position vehicle may otherwise start creeping The automatic transmission Partial throttle = early upshifting = when the selector lever is in drive or selects individual gears auto- normal acceleration reverse position. matically, dependent upon Full throttle = later upshifting = rapid •...
  • Page 76 (e.g. on icy roads, see Winter Driving Selector Lever Positions SL 320 Important! Instructions in Index). The automatic gear shifting With selector lever in position "D",...
  • Page 77 Important! To prevent the engine from laboring at Stopping low RPMs, do not allow the engine For brief stops, e.g. at traffic lights, The delayed upshift is effective with speed to drop too low on uphill vehicle speeds below 31 mph (50 leave the transmission in gear and hold gradients.
  • Page 78 P Parking lock. quickly to operating temperatures. damage that is not covered by the The parking lock is an additional Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. During the brief warm-up period this safeguard to the parking brake when delayed upshift and increased engine parking the vehicle.
  • Page 79 To prevent the engine from laboring at Stopping The delayed upshift is effective with low RPMs, do not allow the engine vehicle speeds below 31 mph (50 For brief stops, e.g. at traffic lights, speed to drop too low on uphill km/h) at partial throttle and engine leave the transmission in gear and hold gradients.

  • Page 80: Cruise Control

    If a set speed is to be increased or system checked at your authorized decreased slightly, e.g. to adapt to the Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as traffic flow, hold lever in position 1 or possible. 2 until the desired speed is reached, or...
  • Page 81 Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty heavy traffic because conditions do not allow safe driving at a will again be maintained as long as the steady speed.

  • Page 82: Charge Indicator Lamp

    The low engine oil level warning light immediately and contact an authorized the poly-V-belt must be replaced should not be ignored. Extended Mercedes-Benz dealer. Do not operate before continuing to operate the driving with the light illuminated the car until the condition is repaired.

  • Page 83: Engine Oil Consumption

    100 kilometers (1/100 km). result in engine damage that is not normal. Frequent driving at high With the engine switched off, the covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited engine speeds results in increased Warranty. needle reads "0". consumption...

  • Page 84: Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp

    Doing so may cause serious Adaptation to ambient temperature engine damage which is not covered by takes place in steps and depends on the the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty prevailing driving conditions (stop- and-go or moderate, constant driving) and amount of temperature change.

  • Page 85: Warning Lamp

    You can be seriously burned. headlamp washer system is located in cause serious engine damage not the engine compartment. covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty...

  • Page 86: Roll Bar Warning Lamp

    If a brake or turn signal lamp fails, the the system checked at your authorized lamp failure indicator will come on Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as when applying the brake or actuating possible. the turn signal and stay on until the...

  • Page 87: Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp

    Have the brake system checked at your system checked for brake pad catching fire. You can be seriously authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as thickness and leaks. burned. soon as possible. To test the brake warning lamp, turn key in steering lock to position 2.
  • Page 88 To alert following vehicles to slippery that the ABS is in the regulating mode. Have the system checked at your road conditions you discover, operate authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as On slippery road surfaces, the ABS your hazard warning flashers as soon as possible.

  • Page 89: Electronic Traction System (Ets)

    In winter operation, the maximum • while driving, ease up on the effectiveness of the electronic traction accelerator. system is only achieved with Mercedes-Benz recommended M + S Adapt your speed and driving to the radial-ply tires and/or snow chains. prevailing road conditions...
  • Page 90 If the ASR malfunction indicator lamp regulation is only achieved with Mercedes-Benz recommended M + S comes on with the engine running, a radial-ply tires and/or snow chains. malfunction has been detected.
  • Page 91 The ASR warning lamp, located in the ASR Control Switch speedometer dial, starts to flash at any To improve the vehicle's traction when vehicle speed as soon as the tires lose driving with snow chains, or starting traction and the wheels begin to spin. off in deep snow, sand or gravel, press To switch off: press lower half of the the upper half of the ASR switch.

  • Page 92: Adaptive Damping System (Ads)

    Soft dampening program. We recommend that you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as This setting should be used for soon as possible to have the system regular driving. checked-out.

  • Page 93: Emission Control

    An on board diagnostic connector allows the accurate identification of system malfunctions through the readout of diagnostic trouble codes. Connector location: SL 320 - passenger compartment, near the accelerator pedal. SL 500, SL 600 - engine compartment, on firewall...

  • Page 94: Traveling Abroad

    Abroad, there is a widely-spread Use only snow chains that are tested system: Add MB Concentrate Mercedes-Benz service network at and recommended by Mercedes-Benz. "S" to a premixed windshield your disposal. If you plan to travel into...

  • Page 95: Practical Hints

    Practical Hints...

  • Page 96: Hood

    Warning! To help prevent personal injury, stay clear of moving parts when the hood is open and the engine is running. Be sure the hood is properly closed before driving. The engine is equipped with a transistorized ignition system. Because of the high voltage it is dangerous to touch any components (ignition coils, spark plug sockets, ignition cables, diagnostic socket) of...

  • Page 97: Checking Coolant Level

    SL 320: The drain plugs for the cooling system • Do not remove pressure cap on are located on the right side of the coolant reservoir if engine engine block and at the bottom of the temperature is above 194 °F...

  • Page 98: Checking Engine Oil Level

    SL 500 SL 320 Check engine oil level approximately 5 600 SL Checking Engine Oil Level minutes after stopping the engine, 1 Oil dipstick Oil level must be allowing for the oil to return to the 2 Oil filler cap between the lower (min) oil pan.

  • Page 99: Transmission Fluid Level

    When noticing fluid loss or gear shifting The level of the transmission fluid is malfunctions, we recommend to have your dependent upon its temperature. authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer check the Two sets of maximum and minimum transmission fluid level. fluid level marks on the dipstick are...

  • Page 100: Trunk Lamp

    First Aid Kit The first aid kit is located in the left trunk well. Stowing Things in the Vehicle Warning! To help avoid personal injury during a collision or sudden maneuver, exercise care when stowing things. Put luggage or cargo in the trunk if possible.

  • Page 101: Vehicle Jack

    Keep shown on the original part. See your hands and feet away from the area authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer under the lifted vehicle. Always for further information. firmly set parking brake and block wheels before raising vehicle with jack.
  • Page 102 Rims and tires must be of the same size. For dimensions, see When replacing rims, use only "Technical Data". genuine MERCEDES-BENZ wheel Thoroughly clean the inner side of the bolts (identified by Mercedes star) wheels any time you rotate the wheels We recommend that you break in new specified for the rim type.

  • Page 103: Wheels

    Warning! Changing Wheels The jack is designed exclusively for Move vehicle to a level area which is a jacking up the vehicle at the jack tubes safe distance from the roadway. built into either side of the vehicle. Use the jack only to lift the vehicle during a 1.
  • Page 104 10. Screw the alignment bolt (1) 7. Jack up the vehicle until the 5. Remove the protective cover supplied in the tool kit into the wheel is clear of the ground. from the jack support tube Never start engine while vehicle upper-most threaded hole.
  • Page 105 Before storing the jack, the jack arm 11. Clean contact surfaces of 13. Fold wrench together and must be lowered almost to the base of tighten the five bolts evenly, wheel and wheel hub. Install following the sequence the jack. Store the spare wheel first and spare wheel on wheel hub.

  • Page 106: Tire Inflation Pressure

    Tire Inflation Pressure Increased inflation pressures for heavy Warning! loads produce favorable handling Do not overinflate tires, characteristics with lighter loads and A table (see fuel filler flap) lists the tire Overinflating tires can result in are perfectly permissible. The ride of inflation pressures specified for sudden deflation (blowout) because the vehicle, however, will become...

  • Page 107: Battery

    Battery While the engine is running the battery Infrared Remote Control Unit) may terminal clamps must not be loosened contain mercury. The maintenance free battery is located or detached, otherwise the generator in the trunk behind the right-hand Recycling of batteries is the and other electronic components would cover panel.

  • Page 108: Fuses

    Before replacing a blown fuse, determine the cause of the short circuit. Spare fuses are supplied inside the fuse box. Observe amperage and color of fuse. Always use a new fuse for replacement. Never attempt to repair or bridge a blown fuse. After replacing a blown fuse, close fuse box cover.

  • Page 109: Exterior Lamps

    Exterior Lamps Headlamp Assembly 6 Electrical connector for high and low beam headlamp bulb 1 Headlamp horizontal adjustment Headlamp Adjustment screw 7 Clamping ring for high and low Correct headlamp adjustment is beam headlamp bulb 2 Headlamp vertical adjustment extremely important. Check and screw readjust headlamps at regular intervals Warning!
  • Page 110 Replacing bulbs: Bulb for turn signal, parking, side marker and standing lamp' (21/5 W/32/3cp): Turn bulb socket (5) with bulb counterclockwise and pull out. Push bulb into socket, turn counterclockwise and remove. Bulb for high and low beam (Halogen type 9004): Squeeze latches (4) and remove cover Taillamp Assemblies (3) upwards.

  • Page 111: Jump Starting

    2. On both vehicles: Jump Starting If the battery is discharged, the engine • Turn off engine and all lights and can be started with jumper cables and accessories, except hazard flashers or the (12V) battery of another vehicle. work lights. The battery is located in the trunk •...
  • Page 112 5. Start engine of the vehicle with Warning! Important! the charged battery and run at A discharged battery can freeze at high idle. Then start engine of Never lean over batteries while approx. + 14°F (-10°C). In that case, it the disabled vehicle in the connecting or jump starting, you must be thawed out before jumper...

  • Page 113: Towing The Vehicle

    The vehicle may be towed with all of Warning! the wheels on the ground and the With the engine not running, there selector lever in position "N" for is no power assistance for the distances up to 30 miles (50 km) (or braking and steering systems.

  • Page 114: Cleaning And Care Of The Vehicle

    Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle avoid paint damage. Frequent recommended by MERCEDES-BENZ washing, however, reduces and/or because of the possibility of Warning! eliminates the aggressiveness and incompatibility between materials used potency of the above adverse in- in the production process and others Many cleaning products can be fluences.
  • Page 115 Engine Cleaning If the vehicle has been run through an Headlamp Cleaning System Corrosion protection, such as MB automatic car wash -in particular one The condition of the wiper blades is Anticorrosion Wax should be applied of the older installations - rewipe the important for satisfactory cleaning of to the engine compartment after every recessed sections in the taillamps...
  • Page 116 Instrument Cluster Plastic Parts, Headliner Automatic Antenna and Rubber Parts Use a gentle dish-washing detergent or For trouble-free operation of the Do not use oil or wax on these parts. mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a automatic antenna, we recommend to clean the antenna mast periodically.
  • Page 117 Soft Top If only parts of the top have been Ornamental Moldings Clean soft top with soft top raised and washed, wet the entire top and allow it For regular cleaning and care of very locked. Lower the soft top into the to air-dry before lowering it into the dirty chrome-plated parts, use a storage compartment only if the top is...

  • Page 118: Testing Infrared Remote Control

    Testing Infrared Remote Control Change batteries, inserting new ones under contact spring (5) with plus (+) Checking Batteries: Synchronizing System: side facing up. If the transmit button (1) is pressed The system may have to be re- Press battery cover onto housing until longer than 1 second, the battery synchronized, if the transmitter is locked in place.
  • Page 119 Raising Soft Top Manually In case of malfunction, the power soft top can also be raised manually. This procedure should be performed with great care by 2 persons. A combination open-end/Allen-head wrench in the vehicle tool kit is required for this job. 1.
  • Page 120 7. Place soft top frame (5) onto 9. Pivot sun visors to side. 10. Using Allen-head wrench, lock left windshield header. and right of soft top frame (5) to Remove left and right caps (6). windshield header - turn wrench in 8.

  • Page 121: Ashtray

    The rear section of the soft top Use only our approved ski rack to cannot be locked during manual avoid damage to the vehicle. Follow operation. manufacturer's installation instructions. Note: Have the soft top operation checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.

  • Page 122: Replacing Wiper Blades

    Windshield Wiper Blade Removal: Fold wiper arm forward. Press safety tab down (1), push wiper blade downward (2) and remove. Installation: Press down safety tab of new wiper blade. Insert wiper blade between the tabs (3) on the wiper arm. Then press safety tab upward until it locks in place.

  • Page 123: Layout Of Poly-V-Belt Drive

    More than 300,000 different spare parts, even for older models, are available. Mercedes-Benz original spare parts are subjected to the most stringent quality inspections. Each part has been specifically developed, manufactured or selected for and adapted to...
  • Page 125 Technical Data...

  • Page 126: Identification Plates

    Certification Tag (left door pillar) Identification Tag Vehicle Identification No. Engine No. (SL 320 right front, SL 600 right rear) Body No. and Paint No. Emission Control Tag Information Tag California version Vacuum line routing for emission control system Identification Plates When ordering spare parts, please specify vehicle Identification and engine numbers.

  • Page 127: Vehicle Data Card

    "warranties" printed in the Owner's Should you lose your Owner's Service Service and Warranty Policy Booklet and Warranty Policy Booklet, have and your authorized Mercedes-Benz your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer dealer will exchange or repair any arrange for a replacement. It will be defective parts in accordance with the mailed to you.

  • Page 128: Technical Data Sl 320

    Champion C 12 YCC Electrode gap 0.032 in (0.8 mm) Tightening 15-22 ft-lb.(20-30 Nm) 1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the corresponding data of all specials bodies and special Equipment.
  • Page 129 Technical Data SL 320 Weights see certification tag Main Dimension Hardtop load max. 66 lb (30 kg) Overall vehicle length 176.0 in (4470 mm) Trunk load max. 220 lb (100 kg) Overall vehicle width 71.3 in (1812 mm) Overall height: Soft top 51.1 in (1298 mm)
  • Page 130 1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. 3 to 2: 75 mph ( 121 km/h) See an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the 2 to B: 44 mph (71 km/h) corresponding data of all specials bodies and special...
  • Page 131 Technical Data SL 500 Weights see certification tag Main Dimension Hardtop load max. 66 lb (30 kg) Overall vehicle length 176.0 in (4470 mm) Trunk load max. 220 lb (100 kg) Overall vehicle width 71.3 in (1812 mm) Overall height: Soft top 51.1 in (1298 mm) Hardtop...
  • Page 132 1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. 3 to 2: 75 mph ( 121 km/h) See an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the 2 to B: 44 mph (71 km/h) corresponding data of all specials bodies and special...
  • Page 133 Technical Data SL 600 Weights see certification tag Main Dimension Hardtop load max. 66 lb (30 kg) Overall vehicle length 178.0 in (4520 mm) Trunk load max. 220 lb (100 kg) Overall vehicle width 71.3 in (1812 mm) Overall height: Soft top 51.3 in (1303 mm) Hardtop...

  • Page 134: Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants Etc

    Fuels , Coolants, Lubricants etc. - Capacities Vehicle components and their respective lubricants must match Therefore use only brands tested and recommended by us. Please refer to the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet, or inquire at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. Model Capacity Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.
  • Page 135 Windshield washer and approx. 5.3 US qt ( 5.0 l ) MB Windshield washer headlamp cleaning system concentrate “S” SL 320 approx. 12.2 US qt ( 11.5 l ) Cooling system SL 500 approx. 16.4 US qt ( 15.5 l )

  • Page 136: Engine Oils

    Mercedes-Benz absorption of moisture from the Limited Warranty. atmosphere. Under extremely hard • avoid full throttle driving and...

  • Page 137: Fuel Requirements

    Do not blend other specific fuel additives with fuel. They only result in unnecessary cost, and may be harmful to the engine operation. Damage or malfunctions resulting from poor fuel quality or from blending specific fuel additives are not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

  • Page 138: Coolants

    (-37 °C) (-45°C) To provide the important corrosion antifreeze coolant used in such engines protection, the solution must be at least SL 320 6.1 US qt 6.7 US qt be specifically formulated to protect the 45% anticorrosion/antifreeze (equals a (5.75 l) (6.30 l)

  • Page 139: Consumer Information

    Consumer Information significantly from the norm due to tested under controlled conditions on a This has been prepared as required of all variations in driving habits, service specified indoor laboratory test wheel. manufacturers of passenger cars under practices and differences in road Sustained high temperature can cause Title 49, Code of U.S.

  • Page 140: Problems With Your Vehicle

    If the matter is not handled to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem with the dealership management, or if necessary contact the Owner Service Manager at the Mercedes-Benz Regional Office nearest you (see Owner's Service and Warranty Information booklet for addresses).

  • Page 141: Reporting Safety Defects

    National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc.. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign.

  • Page 143: Index

    Index...
  • Page 144 ABS 77, 79, Battery Capacities: Fuels, coolants, Acceleration slip control (ASR) Battery not being charged lubricants etc. Adaptive damping system (ADS) Charge indicator lamp 15,82 Catalytic converter ADS 91, Brake fluid 17,87,114,137-138 Cellular telephone Air conditioner refrigerant Brake pads worn Central locking system Airbag Brake pad wear indicator...
  • Page 145 Display illumination First aid kit Identification plates Drinking and driving Fuel Indicator lamp symbols Driving instructions Fuel requirements Instrument cluster Driving off Gasoline additives Interior central locking system Premium unleaded gasoline 14, Interior lighting Electronic Traction System (ETS) 137-138 Jump starting Emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) Fuel consumption gauge Keys, vehicle...
  • Page 146 Maintenance 4, Safety guidelines for the seat belt, Tachometer Memory emergency tensioning retractor Technical data Mirrors, adjusting and airbag Tire inflation pressure Orthopedic seat backrest Seat belt and backrest lock Tires 17-18,89,93, 101-102, Outside temperature indicator warning lamp 106, 128, 130, 132, Parking brake 15-18, 63, 65, - 68, Seat belts and warning system...
  • Page 147 Service and Literature Warning! Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer has To help avoid personal injury, be trained technicians and original Mercedes- extremely careful when performing any Benz parts to service your vehicle properly. maintenance work or repairs, improper For expert advice and quality service, see or incomplete service may damage the your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.

  • Page 148: Check Regularly And Before A Long Trip

    Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip The engine compartment of model SL 500 is illustrated. 1 Fuel Supply To add fuel turn cap to the left and hold on to it until possible pressure in tank has been released, then remove cap.

This manual is also suitable for:

Sl 500Sl 600

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