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Summary of Contents for Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
- Page 1 Mercedes-Benz SL Owners Manual 300 SL 500 SL...
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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 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.
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Page 6: Operator's Manual
If there are any equipment details that are not shown or described in this Operator's Manual, your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will be glad to inform you of correct care and operating procedures. The Operator's Manual and Service Booklet are important documents and should be kept with the vehicle. - Page 7 On vehicles with automatic transmission avoid accelerating by kickdown. It is not recommended to brake the vehicle by manually shifting to a lower gear. We recommend to select positions "4" (for model 300 SL), "3" or "2" only at moderate speeds (for hill driving).
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Page 8: Table Of Contents
Seat Belt and Backrest Lock Starting and Turning Off the Engine Door Pockets Warning Lamp Driving Instructions Rear Storage Compartments Exterior Lamp Failure Indicator Lamp MERCEDES-BENZ Lighter Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp Maintenance System Interior Lighting Brake Warning Lamp Rear Window Defroster... - Page 9 Ski Rack Capacities Wheels Replacing Wiper Blades Engine Oils Changing Wheels Layout of Poly-V-Belt Drive Brake Fluid Tire Pressure MERCEDES-BENZ Premium Unleaded Gasoline Battery Spare Parts Service Fuel Requirements Spark Plugs Gasoline Additives Fuses Coolants Check regularly and before long trip...
- Page 10 Instruments and Controls For more detailed descriptions see specified pages Adjustable air outlet (page 22) Air volume control for center air outlet (page 22) Exterior lamp switch (page 54) Air volume control for right air outlet (page 22) Parking brake release (page 74) Automatic climate control (page 22) Hood lock release (page 96) Radio...
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Page 12: Instrument Cluster
Instrument Cluster Fuel gauge with reserve warning lamp (yellow). p 85 Trip odometer Coolant temperature gauge. See page 85. Main odometer Fuel consumption gauge. See page 84. Outside temperature indicator. See page 85. Oil pressure gauge (bar) with warning lamp (red). p 83. Right turn signal indicator lamp (green) Left turn signal indicator lamp (green) Knob for setting clock (to adjust pull knob out... -
Page 13: Indicator Lamp Symbols
Indicator Lamp Symbols Function Indicator Lamp High beam ADS malfunction. See Index. Warning Lamp ABS malfunction. See Index. (should go out with the engine running unless) Battery not being charged properly. See Index. Brake pads worn down. See Index. Fluid level for windshield and headlamp washer Brake fluid low (except Canada). -
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 Vehicles with automatic transmission: heater be installed. Your authorized the key can only be removed with the MERCEDES-BENZ dealer will advise selector lever in position "P". you on this subject. If the coolant temperature is very high (e.g.
- Page 16 Between maintenance checks, it is a by shifting into a lower gear (selector good practice to apply the parking lever position "4" [for model 300 SL], brake once or twice while driving at All checks and maintenance work on "3", "2" or "B" [for model 500 SL] in...
- Page 17 Depending upon the weather and/or Have the brake system inspected at an road surface (conditions), the tire authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer traction varies widely. immediately. Specified tire pressures must be Install only brake pads and brake fluid maintained.
- Page 18 Aquaplaning On packed snow, they can reduce your Important! stopping distance as compared with summer tires. Stopping distance, It is advisable to set the parking brake Depending on the depth of the water however, is still considerably greater whenever parking or leaving the layer on the road, aquaplaning may than when the road is wet or dry.
- Page 19 Winter Driving Instructions become necessary to produce the Warning! normal brake effect. We therefore The most important rule for slippery or recommend depressing the brake pedal If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow, icy roads is to drive sensibly and to repeatedly when traveling on salt- make sure that snow is kept clear of avoid abrupt acceleration, braking and...
- Page 20 It is recommended to use only brake Lubrication Service every 12 000 km shorter intervals, for example: fluid approved by MERCEDES-BENZ. (7500 miles) Do not mix different types of brake Maintenance Service every 24 000 km Engine: Oil change with filter change fluids.
- Page 21 Operation...
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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) 10.Non-heated/cooled air supply button (center air outlet) 11. Air volume control for left air outlet, turn left to open 12. - Page 23 "10°C" ("50°F") or "40°C" ("104°F") setting. 10°C (50°F) = Heater turned off 40°C (104°F) = Heater turned on In these cases, we recommend that you have the system checked at your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.
- Page 24 4 Function Selection Buttons Defrost Economy The function of this setting cor- Normal Setting responds to the normal setting. Maximum heated and automatically However, because the air conditioning Air volume and distribution are controlled amount of air is directed to compressor will not engage (fuel controlled automatically.
- Page 25 • Automatically shuts off if the • Residual Engine Heat after approx. 30 minutes, at engine coolant temperature drops Utilization outside temperatures above below 40°C (105°F). approx. 5°C (40°F). • Automatically shuts off if the With the engine switched off, it is battery voltage drops.
- Page 26 Flat Key authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer. locks and below the trunk lock. The flat key fits all locks on the car.
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Page 27: Infrared Remote Control
3 Receiver in door handle 3 Receiver under trunk lock 1 Transmit button 2 Transmitter eye and battery check Unlocking: Note: Aim transmitter eye (2) at a Infrared Remote Control If the trunk was previously locked receiver (3) and press transmit separately, it will remain locked (see The vehicle can be centrally locked and button (1). - Page 28 Locking: Closing Windows from Outside Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver Continue to press transmit button (1) (3) and press transmit button (1). after locking car. The windows begin Distance to receiver max. 6 m (20 ft). to close after approx. 1 second. The red indicator lamps on the receivers should blink.
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Page 29: Central Locking System
Locking - from outside With driver's door closed – turn key to the right (3). With passenger's door closed – turn key to the left. Locking - from inside With the door closed – push the lock lever down (5). Unlocking - from outside At the driver's door - turn key to the left (2). - Page 30 Note: Locking The central locking system can only be Turn master key to position 3, turn engaged at the passenger door if the back to position 1 and remove. key is removed from the steering lock or is inserted in the steering lock Unlocking without having been turned.
- Page 31 If the trunk is unlocked, the doors and Closing Windows from Outside Emergency Unlocking in Case of fuel filler flap will also be unlocked. Accident After closing the trunk, the central Turn key in door lock or trunk lock to locking system must again be engaged the locking position and hold.
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Page 32: Interior Central Locking System
Integration with vehicle central Note: locking system If the interior storage compartments are to remain locked (for example while in When locking or unlocking the vehicle a repair shop), leave only the valet key from the outside by using the master with the vehicle. - Page 33 Anti-Theft Alarm System Operation: The alarm will last approximately 150 seconds in the form of blinking exterior The anti-theft alarm can be Once the alarm system has been lamps. At the same time an alarm horn armed/disarmed with any of your armed, the exterior vehicle lamps will will sound intermittently for 60 vehicle's keys or infrared remote...
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Page 34: Power Seats
Adjusting Warning! A Seat cushion Never ride in a moving vehicle with B Backrest the seat back reclined. Sitting in an C Head restraint (with shoulder belt excessively reclined position can be height adjustment) dangerous. You could slide under the seat belt in a collision, if you slide Adjust the head restraint so that the under it, the belt would apply force... - Page 35 Using the same position button, the Recalling Stored Positions steering column position and rear view mirror positions will also be stored Press position button "1", "2" or "3" together with the seat position. and hold until seat/head restraint/ Adjusting steering column see page 39 steering wheel/mirror movement has and mirror see page 56.
- Page 36 MERCEDES-BENZ dealer Do not drive the car when the seat- immediately. back is not locked in place.
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Page 37: Orthopedic Seat Backrest
Some models may be equipped with The inflation pressure of the air orthopedic seats. These seats have an cushion can be varied between position inflatable air cushion built into the "0" = without pressure, and position backrest to provide additional lumbar "4"... -
Page 38: Heated Seats
Heated Seats Note: When in operation, the seat heater The seat heaters can be switched on consumes a large amount of power. It with the key in steering lock turned to is advisable not to use the seat heater position 1 or 2. longer than necessary. -
Page 39: Arm Rest
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 page 35. Arm Rest Adjusting Steering Column To adjust: Press button (1) and slide Turn key in steering lock to position 1 arm rest forward or backward. -
Page 40: Seat Belts
Seat Belts and Supplemental Warning! Never ride in a moving vehicle with Restraint System the seat back reclined. Sitting in an If you are ever in an accident, your excessively reclined position can be Your vehicle is equipped with lap- injuries can be considerably more 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 Unfastening Operation: Push in the red button (3) in the belt The inertia reel stops the belt from buckle (2). unwinding during sudden vehicle stops Allow the retractor to completely or when quickly pulling on the belt. rewind the seat belt by guiding the latch plate (1).
- Page 43 • • Warning! Improperly positioned belts do Adjust the passenger seat as far not provide maximum as possible rearward from the • Each occupant should wear protection and may cause dashboard, especially if a child their seat belt at all times. serious or fatal injuries in case restraint is installed.
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Page 44: Emergency Tensioning Retractor (Etr)
Supplemental Restraint System Seat belt not fastened In cases of other frontal impacts, roll- overs, certain side impacts, rear (SRS) first threshold exceeded: airbag collisions, or other accidents without activates, but not ETR frontal forces, the emergency Driver and front passenger systems tensioning retractors will not be operate independently from each other. -
Page 45: Airbags
Airbags The most effective occupant restraint system yet developed for use in production vehicles is the three point 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 The driver and passengers should be inspected by an authorized "SRS" may not be operational. We will then be protected by the fastened MERCEDES-BENZ dealer at that strongly recommend that you visit an seat belts. time and replaced when necessary.
- Page 47 • • Warning! Sit properly belted in an upright Infants and small children position with your back against should only be seated in an It is very important for your safety to the seat back. infant or child restraint which is •...
- Page 48 • Damaged belts or belts that the steering wheel hub or MERCEDES-BENZ dealer. • were highly stressed in an front passenger airbag When scrapping the airbag unit accident must be replaced and...
- Page 49 Infants and Child Restraint Systems When using any infant or child Infants and small children should restraint system, be sure to carefully never share a seat belt with another We recommend that all infants and read and follow all manufacturer's occupant.
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Page 50: Starting And Turning Off The Engine
Steering Lock 1 Steering is unlocked. (If necessary, move steering wheel slightly and turn key clockwise to position 1.) Steering is locked when the key Driving position. is withdrawn and the steering lock Starting position. is engaged. The key can be withdrawn only in Note: position 0. - Page 51 The following items can be operated An audible warning sounds when the Unnecessary drain on the battery and with the key in steering lock position 1: driver's door is opened with the key in charging system may be minimized by steering lock positions 1 or 0.
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Page 52: Combination Switch
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) Windshield wiper Wiper off Intermittent wiping Normal wiper speed Fast wiper speed When coming to a stop or driving slower than approx. - Page 53 If the windshield wiper smears the Have the system checked at your addition, the exterior lamp failure windshield, even during rain, activate authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer indicator will come on. the washer system as often as as soon as possible. necessary. The fluid in the washer reservoir should be mixed in the correct ratio.
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Page 54: Exterior Lamp Switch
Standing Lamps Parking lamps (includes When the vehicle is parked on the street the standing lamps (right or left side marker lamps, tail- side parking lamps) can be turned on, lamps, license plate lamps, making the vehicle more visible to instrument panel lamps) passing vehicles. -
Page 55: Exterior Rear View Mirrors
Exterior Rear View Mirror, Note: Electrically Adjustable The exterior mirrors have electric-ally heated glass. The heater switches on The switch is located in the center automatically, depending on the console. outside temperature. Turn key in steering lock to position 2. If the mirror housing is forcibly First select the mirror to be adjusted - pivoted from its normal position, it... -
Page 56: Inside Rear View Mirror
Inside Rear View Mirror, Storing Mirror Positions in Electrically Adjustable Memory The switch is located in the center The exterior and interior rear view console. mirror positions are stored in memory Turn key in steering lock to position 2. with the seat/head restraint/steering Turn the switch for the exterior rear column position and can be recalled view mirror adjustment to its center... -
Page 57: Sun Visors
Setting Clock Location of knob, see page 12. Adjusting clock ahead: Pull out adjustment knob, turn to the right and hold. Adjusting clock back: Pull out adjustment knob, turn to the left and hold. Adjusting clock one minute ahead or back: Pull out adjustment knob, briefly turn to the left or right and release knob. -
Page 58: Storage Compartment (Eyeglasses
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 page 32. Locking: Turn master key in lock (3) to the right and remove. -
Page 59: Rear Storage Compartments
Door Pockets Rear Storage Compartments Lighter To open: Lift cover. To open compartment: 1. Cover Press button (1) 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 60: 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. Interior Lighting Reading Lamps The switch is located above the inside Left reading lamp switched on, rear view mirror. -
Page 61: Rear Window Defroster
Rear Window Defroster If several power consumers are turned on simultaneously, or the battery is The switch is located in the center only partially charged, it is possible console. that the defroster will automatically Turn key in steering lock to turn itself off. -
Page 62: Power Windows
Press switch up to resistance point: to close to open Release switch when window is in desired position. Press switch past resistance point and release - window lowers to fully open position. To interrupt procedure, briefly press Note: If the vehicle is left with a door open for a long period, the battery could discharge. - Page 63 Have the system checked at your Items being transported in the area Then press the lower half of the switch authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer behind the seats should be placed in to lower the roll bar. as soon as possible.
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Page 64: 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. Please note, if soft top switch is Removing Hardtop activated after 10 seconds have... - Page 65 5. After the hardtop has unlocked Important! 6. Lift the hardtop vertically from its remove the key from the steering attachment points (3) and locating lock and turn radio off to lower Removal of the key from the steering points (4) and carefully remove to antenna.
- Page 66 Attaching Hardtop From the rear of the vehicle, lift Turn key in steering lock to the hardtop carefully over the position 2. The indicator lamp in Engage parking brake and turn attachment points (1) and locating the soft top switch lights up. key in steering lock to position 2.
- Page 67 If the indicator lamp continues to blink, Slide soft/hardtop switch forward. lock the hardtop manually. See page 122. Have the system checked at your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer Disengage cover (4) and fold as soon as possible. back. Connect rear window defroster plug. Secure cover (4).
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Page 68: Soft Top
• Soft Top The soft top is lowered into the soft top storage compartment. • A minimum height clearance of 2 The storage compartment cover meters (6.5 ft) is required to lower or closes and locks. • raise the soft top. The indicator lamp in the switch Do not lower a frozen soft top until goes out - the lowering procedure... - Page 69 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. • The indicator lamp in the soft top switch goes out -the closing procedure is completed.
- Page 70 See page 119. top storage compartment. Serious personal injury may occur. Have the system checked at your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon as possible.
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Page 71: Wind Screen
Wind Screen Installation: Raise roll bar partially using switch on center console. Insert screen into roll bar by positioning hook at bottom of roll bar, on one side, then push the opposite side in place. Slide wind screen up into roll bar Raise roll bar completely. - Page 72 Removal 1. Fold down top of wind screen. 2. Raise roll bar using switch on center console. 3. Disconnect attachment strap latches by squeezing latch. 4. Lower roll bar partially. 5. Pull wind screen down out of roll Setting up bar (5) and lift wind screen out on one side and remove.
- Page 73 Driving...
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Page 74: Parking Brake
Starting and Shifting Gears Warning! Keep driver's foot area clear at all times. Objects stored in this area may impair pedal movement Test the brakes briefly after driving off. Perform this procedure only when the road is clear of other traffic. Warm up the engine smoothly. -
Page 75: Manual Transmission
Manual Transmission Recommended Shift Points for Manual Transmission See illustration for gearshift lever positions corresponding to the For good fuel economy, the individual gears. following shift points are re- Stop the vehicle completely before commended: shifting into reverse; to shift into reverse, pull the shift lever up. -
Page 76: Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission Driving Accelerator position The automatic transmission The selector lever is automatically Partial throttle = early upshifting = selects individual gears auto- locked while in position "P". To move normal acceleration matically, dependent upon the selector lever out of position "P", Full throttle = later upshifting = rapid the service brake pedal must be firmly acceleration... - Page 77 When the than 3rd gear, this gear selection brakes are released, the vehicle can will allow use of the engine's brak- Selector Lever Positions 300 SL be moved freely (pushed or towed). ing power downhill. Do not engage "N" while driving 2 Upshift to 2nd gear only.
- Page 78 Important! Depending on the degree of the incline, Maneuvering shift selector lever to a lower gear Do not exceed the vehicle speed limits To maneuver in tight areas, e.g. when early enough to maintain engine RPM pulling into parking space, control the for individual gear selections, which within the best torque range.
- Page 79 The parking lock is an additional period of time with selector lever in safeguard to the parking brake when "N" can result in transmission parking the vehicle. Engage only damage. That is not covered by the MERCEDES-BENZ Limited with the car stopped. Warranty.
- Page 80 Important! Depending on the degree of the incline, Maneuvering shift selector lever to a lower gear early Do not exceed the vehicle speed limits enough to maintain engine RPM within To maneuver in tight areas, e.g. when for individual gear selections, which the best torque range.
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Page 81: Cruise Control
The speed can be increased (e.g. for the system checked at your passing) by using the accelerator. As authorized MERCEDES-BENZ "soon as the accelerator is released, the dealer as soon as possible. previously set speed will be resumed automatically. - Page 82 Note: Warning! Caution! If the engine does not brake the vehicle sufficiently while driving on a Only use the cruise control if the In the case of manual transmissions, downgrade, the speed you set on the traffic and weather conditions make the vehicle maximum speed in the cruise control may be exceeded and it advisable to travel at a steady...
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Page 83: Charge Indicator Lamp
"0", then damage to the engine may occur with continued operation. Turn off engine immediately and contact an authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer. Do not operate the car until the condition is repaired. -
Page 84: Engine Oil Consumption
Low Engine Oil Level Warning If no oil leaks are noted and there is Engine Oil Consumption Lamp indicated engine oil pressure, continue to drive to the nearest service station Engine oil consumption checks should With the key in steering lock position where the engine oil should be topped only be made after the break-in period. -
Page 85: Outside Temperature Indicator
Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp Warning! Warning! • With the key in steering lock position The outside temperature indicator is Driving when your engine is 2, the fuel reserve warning lamp comes not designed to serve as an Ice- badly overheated can cause on and goes out with the engine Warning Device and is therefore un- some fluids which may have... -
Page 86: Low Windshield And Head Lamp Washer Fluid Level Warning Lamp
1/4 of checked at your authorized the total volume. The reservoir should MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon as be refilled with MB Windshield Have the roll bar system checked at possible. - Page 87 If the backrest is locked and the warning lamp does not go out, have the system checked at your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon as possible.
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Page 88: Brake Pad Wear Indicator Lamp
You can be seriously When the minimum mark on the burned. Have the brake system checked at your reservoir is reached, have the brake authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer system checked for brake pad thickness as soon as possible. and leaks. - Page 89 Have the system checked at your reminder to take extra care while authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer driving. as soon as possible.
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Page 90: Acceleration Slip Control (Asr)
Have the acceleration slip control When driving with snow chains, press checked at your authorized the upper half of the snow chain MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon as switch, located on the instrument panel possible. (the indicator lamp in the switch comes on). -
Page 91: Automatic Locking Differential
Driving the vehicle with different size Automatic Locking Differential In steering lock position 2, the yellow tires will cause the wheels to rotate at function indicator lamp and the yellow (ASD) different speeds, therefore the ASD indicator lamp in the instrument acceleration slip control will activate The automatic locking differential cluster should come on and then must... -
Page 92: Adaptive Damping System (Ads)
We recommend that you visit an Adaptive Damping System authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer Adjustment as soon as possible to have the system checked-out. The switch is located in the center console. -
Page 93: Emission Control
MERCEDES-BENZ checked at your authorized servicing requirements. For details MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon as refer to the Maintenance Booklet. possible. An on-board test connection with pushbutton and light emitting diode... -
Page 94: Winter Driving
Abroad, there is a widely-spread system: Add MB Concentrate "S" Use only snow chains that are tested MERCEDES-BENZ service network at to a premixed windshield washer and recommended by MERCEDES- your disposal. If you plan to travel into solvent/antifreeze which is BENZ. - Page 95 Practical Hints...
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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 coil, distributor, spark plug sockets, ignition cables, diagnostic... -
Page 97: Checking Coolant Level
• Do not remove pressure cap on coolant reservoir if engine 300 SL: temperature is above 90°C (194°F). Allow engine to cool The drain plugs for the cooling system down before removing cap. The... -
Page 98: Low Engine Oil Level Warning Lamp
For viscosity and capacity, see Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc, page 135. For low engine oil level warning lamp, page 84. 300 SL 500 SL Checking Engine Oil Level The best time to check the engine oil level is when the oil is warm, such 1 Oil dipstick as during a fuel stop. -
Page 99: Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid Level
20 - 30°C (68 - 86°F), which is the normal shop temperature range, then the maximum fluid level will be approximately 10 mm (0.4 in) below 300 SL 500 SL the minimum mark on the dipstick. We stress this point because a fluid change... -
Page 100: Trunk Lamp
First Aid Kit The first aid kit is located in the left trunk well. Trunk Lamp Spare Wheel To switch off: Using car key, slide 1 Trunk floor switch to the left. This prevents the 2 Strap battery from being discharged if the trunk is to remain open for an extended Roll back the floor mat, lift the trunk period. -
Page 101: Vehicle Jack
See your vehicle. Use the jack only to lift the authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer vehicle during a wheel change. Never for further information. get beneath the vehicle while it is supported by the jack. - Page 102 Retread tires may same size. For dimensions, see When replacing rims, use only adversely affect the handling "Technical Data". genuine MERCEDES-BENZ wheel characteristics and safety of the bolts (identified by Mercedes star) vehicle. We recommend that you break in new specified for the rim type.
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Page 103: Changing 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 safe distance from the roadway. tubes built into either side of the vehicle. Use the jack only to lift the 1. - Page 104 5. Remove the protective cover from 6. Insert jack arm fully into the tube 8. Unscrew wheel bolts completely. the jack support tube opening by hole up to the stop. Position the jack Keep bolt threads protected from inserting a screwdriver in the so that it is always vertical (plumb- dirt and sand.
- Page 105 11. Install spare wheel on wheel 13. Fold wrench together and Before storing the jack, the jack arm hub. Insert wheel bolts and tighten the five bolts evenly, must be lowered almost to the base of tighten them slightly. following the sequence the jack.
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Page 106: Tire Pressure
Tire Inflation Pressure Tire temperature and pressure increase Warning! with the vehicle speed. A table (see fuel filler flap) lists the tire Do not overinflate tires, inflation pressures specified for Tire pressure should therefore only be Overinflating tires can result in summer and winter tires as well as for corrected on cold tires. -
Page 107: Battery
Battery Only charge a battery with a battery Warning! charger after it has been disconnected The maintenance-free battery is located from the vehicle electrical circuit. Never lean over batteries while in the trunk behind the right-hand cover connecting or jump starting, you panel. -
Page 108: Spark Plugs
Spark Plugs Remove and install spark plugs only with socket wrench from the vehicle tool kit. Tightening torque: 25 - 30 Nm (18 - 22ft.lb.). For approved spark plugs see "Technical Data". Fuses Spare fuses are supplied inside the fuse box. -
Page 109: Replacing Bulbs
Headlamp Adjustment Headlamp Assembly 6 Electrical connector for high and low beam headlamp bulb Correct headlamp adjustment is 1 Headlamp horizontal adjustment extremely important. Check and screw 7 Clamping ring for high and low readjust headlamps at regular intervals beam headlamp bulb and when a bulb has been replaced. - 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 (3) upwards.
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Page 111: Jump Starting
• Jump Starting Apply parking brake and shift selector lever to position "P" If the battery is discharged, the engine (neutral for manual can be started with jumper cables and transmission). the (12V) battery of another vehicle. The battery is located in the trunk Important! behind the right-hand cover panel. - Page 112 Start engine of the vehicle with Important! Warning! the charged battery and run at high idle. Then start engine of A discharged battery can freeze at Never lean over batteries while the disabled vehicle in the usual approx. -10°C (+ 14°F). In that case, it connecting or jump starting, you manner.
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Page 113: Towing The Vehicle
The vehicle may be towed with all of To signal turns while being towed with the wheels on the ground and the hazard flasher in use, activate selector lever in position "N' / neutral combination switch for left or right for distances up to 120 km (75 miles) turn signal in usual manner - only the and at a speed not to exceed 50 km/h... - Page 114 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 - rewipe the recessed sections in the Plastic Parts, Headliner and taillamps (designed to prevent soiling) Rubber Parts Corrosion protection, such as MB if necessary. No solvents (fuels, Anticorrosion Wax should be applied thinners etc.) must be used. In the Do not use oil or wax on these parts.
- Page 116 Instrument Cluster Paintwork, Painted Body Automatic Antenna Components Use a gentle dish-washing detergent or For trouble-free operation of the mild detergent for delicate fabrics as a MB-Paint Protector and Sealer should automatic antenna, we recommend to washing solution. Wipe with a cloth be applied when water drops on the clean the antenna mast periodically.
- Page 117 Soft Top If only parts of the top have been In general, regular spraying or washed, wet the entire top and allow it cleansing with clear water is sufficient Clean soft top with soft top raised and to air-dry before lowering it into the to keep the top clean.
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Page 118: Testing Infrared Remote Control
Testing Infrared Remote Control When inserting new batteries, make Synchronizing System: Checking Batteries: sure they are correctly installed. The system may have to be re- If the transmit button (1) is pressed Slide battery cover onto housing until synchronized, if the transmitter is longer than 1 second, the battery locked in place. -
Page 119: Locking Soft Top Manually
Locking 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 6. Place soft top bow (4) in vertical 7. Pivot sun visors to side. 8. Using Allen-head wrench, lock left position and soft top frame (5) onto Remove left and right caps (6). and right of soft top frame (5) to windshield header.
- Page 121 10. Fold soft top bow (4) down and Press the open-end wrench guide lock pins into locks. down (9) only until the lock audibly engages. Have the power soft top chocked at your authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon as possible.
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Page 122: Locking Hard Top Manually
Locking Hardtop Manually 2. Place open-end wrench on lever 3. Pivot sun visors to side. marked in red. Remove left and right caps (4). In case of malfunction, the hardtop can also be locked manually. Push the hard top down (2) and Warning! using the open-end wrench, A combination open-end/Allen-head... -
Page 123: Ashtray
Have the hardtop checked at your Ski Rack authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon as possible. Use only our approved ski rack to avoid damage to the vehicle. Follow manufacturer's installation instructions. -
Page 124: 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 125: Layout Of Poly-V-Belt Drive
Spare Parts Service All authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealers maintain a stock of original spare parts required for maintenance and repair work. In addition, strategically located parts distribution centers provide quick and reliable parts service, More than 300,000 different spare parts, even for older models, are available. - Page 127 Technical Data...
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Page 128: Identification Plates
1. Certification Tag (left door pillar) 2. Identification Tag 3. Vehicle Identification No. 4. Engine No. (SL 320 right front) 5. Body No. and Paint No. 6. Emission Control Tag 7. 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 129: Theft Prevention
Bumper front/rear Engine hood Trunk lid All fenders All doors Engine*: on engine block: 300 SL, rear 500 SL, left rear Transmission*: on transmission, left front * not shown in illustration Theft Prevention Spare parts are similarly labeled at Note: factory in a different location. -
Page 130: Vehicle Data Card
Should you lose your Owner's Service Service and Warranty Policy Booklet and Warranty Policy Booklet, have and your authorized MERCEDES- your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer BENZ dealer will exchange or repair arrange for a replacement. It will be any defective parts in accordance with mailed to you. -
Page 131: Technical Data 300Sl
Champion C 12 YCC Poly – V belts length 2445 mm Electrode gap 0.8 mm (0.032 in) The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the corresponding data for all special bodies and special equipment. - Page 132 Technical Data 300 SL Weights See certification tag Main Dimensions Hardtop load max. 30 kg (66 lb) Overall vehicle length 4470 mm (176.0 in) Trunk load max. 100 kg (220 lb) Overall vehicle width 1812 mm ( 71.3 in) Overall height: Soft top 1298 mm ( 51.1 in)
- Page 133 Champion C 10 YCC Poly – V - belts length 2523mm Electrode gap 0.8 mm (0.032 in) The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for the corresponding data of all special bodies and special equipment.
- Page 134 Technical Data 500 SL Weights See certification tag Main Dimensions Hardtop load max. 30 kg ( 66 lb) Overall vehicle length 4470 mm (176.0 in) Trunk load max. 100 kg (220 lb) Overall vehicle width 1812 mm ( 71.3 in) Overall height: Soft top 1298 mm ( 51.1 in)
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Page 135: 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. Inquire at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. Model Capacity Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. Engine with oil filter 300 SL 7.5 l (7.9 US qt) - Page 136 Model Capacity Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. 5-speed 300 SL 1.6 l 1.7 US qt 1.6 l MB manual transmission fluid. manual transmission 300 SL Initial fill: 7.1 l (7.5 US qt) Automatic transmission Fluid change: 6.0 l (6.3 US qt)
- Page 137 Windshield washer and approx. 5 l (5.3 US qt) MB Windshield washer headlamp cleaning system Concentrate “S” 300 SL approx. 11.5 l (12.2 US qt) Cooling system 500 SL approx. 15 l (15.9 US qt) MB Anticorrosion/antifreeze Fuel tank approx.
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Page 138: Engine Oils
Never use R-12 (CFG) or mineral- It is recommended to use only brake fill up with premium unleaded as based lubricating oil, otherwise damage fluid approved by Mercedes-Benz. soon as possible, to the system will occur. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer •... -
Page 139: Fuel Requirements
• oxygenates to gasoline does not exceed warm-up hesitation, • 10%. unstable idle, • knocking/pinging, • misfire, • power loss. Damages or malfunctions resulting from poor fuel quality are not covered by the MERCEDES-BENZ Limited Warranty. -
Page 140: Coolants
(-35 °F) (-49° F) freeze protection to approx. -22 °F aluminum parts. (Failure to use such 300 SL 5.75 l 6.30 l [-30 °C]). If you use a solution that is anticorrosion/antifreeze coolant will more than 55% anticorrosion/antifreeze result in a significantly shortened (6.1 US qt) - Page 141 Consumer Information and may depart significantly from the tested under controlled conditions on a norm due to variations in driving habits, specified indoor laboratory test wheel. This has been prepared as required of all service practices and differences in road Sustained high temperature can cause manufacturers of passenger cars under characteristics and climate.
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Page 142: 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). You may also write directly to us at the following addresses: In the U.S.A.: Owner Service Department... -
Page 143: Reporting Safety Defects
However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Mercedes-Benz of North America Inc. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. -
Page 145: Index
Index... -
Page 146: Consumer Information
Acceleration slip control (ASR) Capacities Emergency tensioning Adaptive damping Catalytic converter retractors (ETR) system (ADS) Central locking system Emission control Airbag Interior Emission control tag Alarm system Certification tag Engine no. Alloy wheels Charge indicator lamp Engine oil and filter Antenna Cleaning and care of the vehicle change... - Page 147 Hardtop 64, Jack Maintenance 4, Locking manually Jump starting Manual transmission Headlamps 52, Headlamp washer Keys Oil pressure gauge Head restraint On-board diagnostic system Heated seats Lamps, exterior (California models only) Hood Headlamps Orthopedic seat License plate lamps Outside temperature indicator Identification plates Switch Indicator lamps...
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Page 148: Traveling Abroad
Seat belts 40, Technical data 131, Upholstery, cleaning Warning system Theft prevention Seats 34, 35, Tire pressure Vanity mirror Service literature Tires 17, 101, V-belt 125, 131, Shifting Towing Vehicle data card Automatic transmission Traveling abroad Vehicle identification no. Manual transmission Trunk lamp Vehicle tools Recommended shift points for manual... - Page 149 Customers who are interested in ordering service literature If you have any question about carrying out some for their vehicles are advised to contact Mercedes-Benz service, turn to the advice of an authorized distributors in the U.S. or Canada at the following MERCEDES-BENZ dealer.
- Page 150 Check Regularly and Before a Long Trip The engine compartment of model 500 SL is illustrated. Fuel Supply: Turn fuel filler cap to the left and hold on to it until possible pressure in tank has been released, then remove cap. Tire Inflation Pressure: Check at least every two weeks.
- Page 151 • What You Should Know at the Gas Station Coolant: For normal replenishing, use water (potable water • Fuel: quality). Use premium unleaded gasoline: Posted Octane index For further information (e.g. anticorrosion/antifreeze), 91 (Average of 96 RON/86 MON). refer to Index. Fuel tank capacity approx.