Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Operator's Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Mercedes-Benz Manuals
  4. Automobile
  5. 300 SL
  6. Operator's manual

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Operator's Manual

Hide thumbs Also See for 300 SL:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

See also: Owner's Manual
Mercedes-Benz
SL Operator's Manual
300 SL
500 SL
1

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the 300 SL and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Subscribe to Our Youtube Channel

Related Manuals for Mercedes-Benz 300 SL

Summary of Contents for Mercedes-Benz 300 SL

  • Page 1 Mercedes-Benz SL Operator's Manual 300 SL 500 SL...
  • Page 2 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.
  • 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 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).
  • Page 8 Introduction Anti-Theft Alarm System Orthopedic Seat Backrest Wind Screen Product information Heated Seats Antenna Operator's manual Arm Rest Cellular Telephone Consumer Information Adjusting steering column Problems with your vehicle Seat belts and Supplemental restraint Driving system (SRS) Reporting Safety Defects Seat belts Index Emergency tensioning retractor (ETR)
  • Page 9 Acceleration Slip Control (ASR) Tire Pressure Warranty Coverage Driving with Snow Chains Battery 109 Technical Data Automatic Locking Differential (ASD) Spark Plugs 300 SL Adaptive Damping System (ADS) Fuses 500 SL Emission Control Adjusting Headlamps Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants etc. On-Board Diagnostic System...
  • Page 10 Instruments and Controls For more detailed descriptions see specified pages Adjustable air outlet Air volume control for center air outlet Exterior lamp switch Air volume control for right air outlet Parking brake release Automatic climate control Hood lock release Radio Parking brake pedal Rear window defroster switch Combination switch...

  • Page 12: Instrument Cluster

    Instrument Cluster Fuel gauge with reserve warning lamp (yellow). See Index. Trip odometer Coolant temperature gauge. See Index. Main odometer Fuel consumption gauge. See Index. Outside temperature indicator. See Index.. Oil pressure gauge (bar) with warning lamp (red). See Index. 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 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 Caution! Warning! To prevent damage to the catalytic As with any vehicle, do not idle, park Your MERCEDES-BENZ is equipped converters, use only premium unleaded or operate this vehicle in areas where with monolithic type catalytic converters, gasoline in this vehicle.
  • Page 15 "P". we recommend that an engine block heater be installed. Your If the coolant temperature is very high authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer (e.g. after hard driving on mountain will advise you on this subject. roads), do not shut off the engine...

  • Page 16: Driving Instructions

    (selector Between maintenance checks, it is a sufficient time to avoid an accident. lever position "4" [for model 300 SL], good practice to apply the parking "3", "2" or "B" [for model 500 SL] in brake once or twice while driving at the case of automatic transmission).
  • Page 17 Depending upon the weather and/or in the reservoir. road surface (conditions), the tire traction varies widely. Have the brake system inspected at an authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer Specified tire pressures must be immediately. maintained. This applies particularly if the tires are subjected to high loads Install only brake pads and brake fluid (e.g.

  • Page 18: Tire Traction

    Aquaplaning On packed snow, they can reduce your Important! stopping distance as compared with Depending on the depth of the water summer tires. Stopping distance, It is advisable to set the parking brake layer on the road, aquaplaning may however, is still considerably greater whenever parking or leaving the occur, even at low speeds and with new than when the road is wet or dry.

  • Page 19: Winter Driving Instructions

    Winter Driving Instructions produce the normal brake effect. We Warning! therefore recommend depressing the The most important rule for slippery or brake pedal repeatedly when traveling If the vehicle becomes stuck in snow, icy roads is to drive sensibly and to on salt-strewn roads at length.

  • Page 21: Operation

    Operation...
  • Page 22 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 Left air outlet, adjustable 13 Air volume control for right air...
  • Page 23 Notes: The automatic climate control removes Temperature Selector The temperature selected with the considerable moisture from the air temperature selector is reached as during operation in the cooling mode. Select the desired temperature with the quickly as possible. It is normal for water to drip on the temperature selector.
  • Page 24 4 Function Selection Buttons Economy Defrost Normal Setting Maximum heated and automatically The function of this setting cor- controlled amount of air is directed to responds to the normal setting. Air volume and distribution are the windshield and side windows. However, because the air conditioning controlled automatically.
  • Page 25 Residual Engine Heat The system will automatically • after approx. 30 minutes, at Utilization shut off: outside temperatures above approx. 5°C (40°F). With the engine switched off, it is • after approx. 30 minutes, If button is pressed: possible to continue heating the •...
  • Page 26 Flat Key MERCEDES-BENZ dealer. locks and below the trunk lock. The flat key fits all locks on the car.
  • Page 27 1 Transmit button 3 Receiver in door handle 3 Receiver under trunk lock 2 Transmitter eye and battery check Unlocking: Note: Infrared Remote Control If the trunk was previously locked Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver separately, it will remain locked (see The vehicle can be centrally locked and (3) and press transmit button (1).
  • Page 28 Locking: Closing Windows from Outside Aim transmitter eye (2) at a receiver (3) and press transmit button (1). Continue to press transmit button (1) Distance to receiver max. 6 m (20 ft). after locking car. The windows begin to close after approx. 1 second. The red indicator lamps on the receivers should blink.
  • Page 29 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 •...
  • Page 30 Note: Locking The central locking system can only be engaged at the passenger door if the Turn master key to position 3, turn key is removed from the steering lock back to position 1 and remove. or is inserted in the steering lock 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.
  • Page 32 Note: • rear storage compartments, If the interior storage compartments are • door pockets. to remain locked (for example while in a repair shop), leave only the valet key Integration with vehicle central with the vehicle. locking system When unlocking a door from the When locking or unlocking the vehicle inside, on a vehicle previously locked from the outside by using the master...
  • Page 33 Anti-Theft Alarm System Operation: The alarm will last approximately 150 Once the alarm system has been seconds in the form of blinking The anti-theft alarm can be armed, the exterior vehicle lamps will exterior lamps. At the same time an armed/disarmed with any of your flash and the horn will sound alarm horn will sound intermittently...
  • Page 34 Adjusting driving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. A Seat cushion B Backrest Never ride in a moving vehicle with C Head restraint (with shoulder belt the seat back reclined. Sitting in an height adjustment) excessively reclined position can be dangerous.
  • 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 and mirror steering wheel/mirror movement has see Index.
  • 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 Some models may be equipped with The inflation pressure of the air orthopedic seats. These seats have an cushion can be varied between inflatable air cushion built into the position "0" = without pressure, backrest to provide additional lumbar and position "4" = maximum support.
  • Page 38 Turning on heater: Note: Press upper half of switch = When in operation, the seat heater normal heating mode. One indicator consumes a large amount of power. It lamp in the switch lights up. is advisable not to use the seat heater longer than necessary.
  • Page 39 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. 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 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 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 of Seat Belts Note: 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: Use Child Restraints Properly

    Warning! • Position the lap belt as low USE CHILD RESTRAINTS as possible on your hips PROPERLY. USE SEAT BELTS PROPERLY. and not across the abdomen. If the belt is • Infants and small children • Each occupant should wear positioned across your must be seated in an infant their seat belt at all times.
  • Page 44 Supplemental Restraint System Seat belt not fastened In cases of other frontal impacts, roll- (SRS) overs, certain side impacts, rear • first threshold exceeded: airbag collisions, or other accidents without activates, but not ETR frontal forces, the emergency tensioning retractors will not be Driver and front passenger systems activated.
  • Page 45 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 MERCEDES-BENZ dealer MERCEDES-BENZ dealer at that immediately to have the system time and replaced when necessary. checked; otherwise the "SRS" may not be activated when needed.
  • Page 47 Warning! Since the airbag inflates with • Infants and small children should considerable speed and force, a only be seated in an infant or child It is very important for your safety to proper seating position will keep you restraint which is properly secured always be in a properly seated in a safe distance from the airbag: by the seat belt.
  • Page 48 • Damaged belts or belts that material, badges etc. over be performed by an authorized were highly stressed in an the steering wheel hub or Mercedes-Benz dealer. accident must be replaced front passenger airbag and their anchoring points cover and installation of •...
  • Page 49 Infants and Child Restraint Warning! When the child restraint is not in Systems use, remove it from the car or Rear-facing child restraints must not secure it with the seat belt to We recommend that all infants and be used in a front seat with a prevent the child restraint from children be restrained at all times while passenger side airbag.
  • Page 50 Steering Lock 1. Steering is unlocked. (If necessary, move steering wheel 0 Steering is locked when the key is slightly and turn key clockwise to withdrawn and the steering lock is position 1.) engaged. 2. Driving position. The key can be withdrawn only in 3.
  • 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.
  • Page 52 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 I Intermittent wiping II Normal wiper speed III Fast wiper speed When coming to a stop or driving slower than approx.
  • Page 53 Have the system checked at your addition, the exterior lamp failure the washer system as often as authorized MERCEDES-BENZ dealer indicator will come on. necessary. The fluid in the washer as soon as possible. reservoir should be mixed in the correct...
  • Page 54 Standing Lamps When the vehicle is parked on the Parking lamps (includes side street the standing lamps (right or left marker lamps, taillamps, side parking lamps) can be turned on, license plate lamps, making the vehicle more visible to instrument panel lamps) passing vehicles.
  • Page 55 Exterior Rear View Mirrors Note: The exterior mirrors have electric-ally The switch is located in the center heated glass. The heater switches on console. automatically, depending on the outside temperature. Turn key in steering lock to position 2. First select the mirror to be adjusted - If the mirror housing is forcibly turn switch: pivoted from its normal position, it...
  • Page 56 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 with the seat/head restraint/steering Turn key in steering lock to position 2. column position and can be recalled when necessary, see Index.

  • Page 57: Vanity Mirror

    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 Sun Visors...

  • Page 58: 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 59 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 60 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 4 Left reading lamp switched on, rear view mirror.
  • Page 61 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 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 Power Windows for a long period, the battery could Roll Bar...
  • Page 63 • 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 64 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 seconds have expired,...
  • 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 the antenna.

  • Page 66: Attaching Hardtop

    Attaching Hardtop 5 From the rear of the vehicle, lift the 6 Turn key in steering lock to 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 67 If the indicator lamp continues to Slide soft/hardtop switch forward. blink, lock the hardtop manually. Disengage cover (4) and fold back. See Index. Connect rear window defroster plug. Secure cover (4). Have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.
  • Page 68 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 69 3. 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 Index. top storage compartment. Serious personal injury may occur. Have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.
  • Page 71 Wind Screen Installation: 1. Raise roll bar partially using switch on center console. 2. Insert screen into roll bar by positioning hook at bottom of roll bar, on one side, then push the opposite side in place. 3. Slide wind screen up into roll bar 4 Raise roll bar completely.
  • Page 72 The rear storage area should never 4. Lower roll bar partially trunk mounted container, obtainable be occupied by passengers since the at your authorized Mercedes-Benz vehicle is a 2 seater. Furthermore, dealer. with the wind screen in place there is a risk of injury, should the roll bar be deployed.

  • Page 73: Cellular Telephone

    The vehicle is prepared for the the radio and/or telephone. installation of a cellular telephone. For further information and installation Note: contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz To retract the antenna (e.g. when dealer. entering a car wash) both radio and telephone must be switched off.
  • Page 75 Driving...

  • Page 76: Driving Off

    Drinking and Driving Driving Off Warning! Test the brakes briefly after driving off. Perform this procedure only when the Drinking and driving can be a very road is clear of other traffic. dangerous combination. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect Warm up the engine smoothly.
  • Page 77 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- commended: Stop the vehicle completely before shifting into reverse; to shift into Shift reverse, pull the shift lever up.
  • Page 78 Automatic Transmission Driving Accelerator position The automatic transmission The selector lever is automatically Partial throttle selects individual gears auto- locked while in position "P". To move = early upshifting matically, dependent upon the selector lever out of position "P", = normal acceleration the service brake pedal must be firmly •...
  • Page 79 Do not engage "N" while driving This gear selection will allow use except to coast when the vehicle is of the engine's braking power when Selector Lever Positions 300 SL in danger of skidding (e.g. on icy descending steep grades. roads, see Winter Driving The automatic gear shifting Instructions in Index).
  • Page 80 Important! To prevent the engine from laboring at Stopping low RPMs, do not allow the engine The delayed upshift is effective with speed to drop too low on uphill For brief stops, e.g. at traffic lights, vehicle speeds below 31 mph (50 gradients.
  • Page 81 This allows damage that is not covered by the the catalytic converter to heat up more P Parking lock. Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. quickly to operating temperatures. The parking lock is an additional During the brief warm-up period this...
  • Page 82 The delayed upshift is effective with To prevent the engine from laboring at Stopping vehicle speeds below 31 mph (50 low RPMs, do not allow the engine km/h) at partial throttle and engine speed to drop too low on uphill For brief stops, e.g.

  • Page 83: Cruise Control

    1 or checked at your authorized Cruise Control 2 until the desired speed is reached, or Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as briefly tip the control lever in the possible. Any given speed above approximately...
  • Page 84 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...
  • Page 85 "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 86 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 87 Fuel Reserve Warning Lamp Warning! Warning! With the key in steering lock position The outside temperature indicator is • Driving when your engine is badly 2, the fuel reserve warning lamp comes not designed to serve as an Ice- overheated can cause some fluids on and goes out with the engine Warning Device and is therefore un- which may have leaked into the...
  • Page 88 The reservoir should Have the roll bar system checked at MERCEDES-BENZ dealer as soon as be refilled with MB Windshield your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer possible. Washer Concentrate "S" and water (or as soon as possible.
  • Page 89 If the backrest is locked and the system. warning lamp does not go out, have the system checked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.
  • Page 90 You can be seriously Have the brake system checked at your steering lock position 2). burned. authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible. When the minimum mark on the reservoir is reached, have the brake system checked for brake pad thickness...
  • Page 91 Have the system checked at your driving. authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.
  • Page 92 Acceleration Slip Control (ASR) The mode is canceled in memory above 37 mph (60 km/h) and the The acceleration slip control will indicator lamp in the switch goes out. engage at all vehicle speeds, if one or both drive wheels begin to lose traction To switch off: press lower half of and spin.
  • Page 93 (25 km/h). It will disengage at speeds has been detected. We recommend that above 26 km/h (16.2 mph). you visit an authorized Mercedes-Benz In winter operation, the maximum dealer as soon as possible to have the effectiveness of the acceleration slip The yellow function indicator in the ASD checked.
  • Page 94 Adaptive Damping System We recommend that you visit an Adjustment authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible to have the system The switch is located in the center checked-out. console. Press switch...
  • Page 95 If the "CHECK ENGINE" indicator jobs must be carried out regularly least one window fully open. lamp comes on, have the system according to MERCEDES-BENZ checked at your authorized Mercedes- servicing requirements. For details Benz dealer as soon as possible.

  • Page 96: Winter Driving

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

  • Page 97: Practical Hints

    Practical Hints...
  • Page 98 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 99 / antifreeze should be cooling system. added. • Do not remove pressure cap on 300 SL: coolant reservoir if engine The drain plugs for the cooling system temperature is above 90°C are located on the right side of the (194°F).
  • Page 100 For viscosity and capacity, see "Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc. in Index. For low engine oil level warning lamp, see Index. 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 101 10 mm (0.4 in) below the minimum mark on the dipstick. We 300 SL 500 SL stress this point because a fluid change is normally performed when the...

  • Page 102: 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 103 See your under the lifted vehicle. Always authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for firmly set parking brake and block further information. wheels before raising vehicle with jack.
  • Page 104 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.
  • Page 105 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 106 Remove the protective cover from Insert jack arm fully into the Unscrew wheel bolts completely. the jack support tube opening by tube hole up to the stop. Keep bolt threads protected from inserting a screwdriver in the Position the jack so that it is dirt and sand.
  • Page 107 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.
  • Page 108 Tire Inflation Pressure Tire temperature and pressure increase Warning! with the vehicle speed. Tire pressure A table (see fuel filler flap) lists the tire should therefore only be corrected on Do not overinflate tires. inflation pressures specified for cold tires. Correct tire pressure in warm Overinflating tires can result in summer and winter tires as well as for tires only if pressure has dropped be-...
  • Page 109 Battery While the engine is running the battery Warning! terminal clamps must not be loosened The maintenance-free battery is located or detached, otherwise the alternator Never lean over batteries while in the trunk behind the right-hand and other electronic components would connecting or jump starting, you cover panel.
  • Page 110 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 111 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 112 Replacing bulbs Bulb for turn signal, parking, side marker and standing lamp (21/5 W / 32/3 cp): 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.
  • Page 113 Jump Starting 2. On both vehicles: • Turn off engine and all lights and If the battery is discharged, the engine accessories, except hazard flashers or can be started with jumper cables and work lights. the (12V) battery of another vehicle. •...
  • Page 114 Important! Important! Warning! 5. Start engine of the vehicle with A discharged battery can freeze at Never lean over batteries while the charged battery and run at approx. -10°C (+ 14°F). In that case, connecting or jump starting, you high idle. Then start engine of it must be thawed out before jumper might get injured.
  • Page 115 The vehicle may be towed with all of Note: the wheels on the ground and the With the engine not running, there is selector lever in position "N' / neutral no power assistance for the braking and for distances up to 120 km (75 miles) steering systems.
  • Page 116 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 117 Engine Cleaning If the vehicle has been run through an Headlamp Cleaning System automatic car wash -in particular one Corrosion protection, such as MB of the older installations - rewipe the The condition of the wiper blades is Anticorrosion Wax should be applied recessed sections in the taillamps important for satisfactory cleaning of to the engine compartment after every...
  • Page 118 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 119 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.
  • Page 120 Testing Infrared Remote Control When inserting new batteries, make Synchronizing System: Checking Batteries: sure they are correctly installed. The system may have to be If the transmit button (1) is pressed Slide battery cover onto housing until resynchronized, if the transmitter is longer than 1 second, the battery locked in place.
  • Page 121 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 122 Place soft top bow (4) in vertical 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. windshield header - turn wrench in 3 stages towards center of car: Left lock to first notch...
  • Page 123 10. Fold soft top bow (4) down and guide lock pins into locks. Press the open-end wrench down (9) only until the lock audibly engages. Have the power soft top chocked at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer as soon as possible.
  • Page 124 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 125 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 126 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 127 More than 300,000 different spare parts, even for older models, are available. Mercedes-Benz original spare parts are subjected to the most stringent 300 SL 500 SL quality inspections. Each part has been specifically developed,...

  • Page 129: Technical Data

    Technical Data...
  • Page 130 (left door pillar) 2 Identification Tag (left window post) 3 Vehicle Identification No. 4 Engine No. (300 SL right front) 5 Body No. and Paint No. 6 Emission Control Tag 7 Information Tag California version Vacuum line routing for emission...
  • Page 131 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 132 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 133 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 134 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 135 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 136 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)
  • Page 137 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. 300 SL 7.5 l (7.9 US qt)
  • Page 138 Model Capacity Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. 5-Speed 300 SL 1.6 l (1.7 US qt) MB Manual transmission fluid 300 SL Initial fill: 7.1 l (7.5 US qt) Automatic Fluid change: 6.0 l (6.3 US qt) transmission 500 SL Initial fill: 8.6 l (9.1 US qt) MB Automatic transmission fluid Fluid change: 7.7 l (8.1 US qt)
  • Page 139 Windshield washer and approx. 5.3 US qt (5.0 l) MB Windshield washer headlamp cleaning concentrate "S" system 300 SL approx. 12.2 US qt (11.5 l) Cooling system MB Anticorrosion/antifreeze 500 SL approx. 16.4 US qt (15.5 l) Fuel tank approx.
  • Page 140 HFC-134a fluid approved by Mercedes Benz. abrupt acceleration, (ozone-friendly hydro-fluorocarbon) Your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer refrigerant and special lubricating oil, will provide you with additional • do not exceed an engine speed never use R-12 (CFC) or mineral-based information.
  • Page 141 A major concern among engine ASTM standard D 439: manufacturers is carbon build up Using mixtures of Ethanol and caused by gasoline. Mercedes-Benz The octane number (posted at the Methanol is not allowed. Gasohol, recommends to use only quality pump) must be 91min. It is an average...
  • Page 142 The cooling system was filled at the usually satisfied by normal drinking authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for factory with a coolant providing freeze water. If you are not sure about the maintenance service.
  • Page 143 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.
  • Page 144 Mercedes-Benz dealer to have the problem diagnosed and corrected if required. If the matter is not handled to your satisfaction, please discuss the problem with the dealership...
  • Page 145 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 147 Index...
  • Page 148 ABS 80, 82, Battery Capacities: Fuels, coolants, Acceleration slip control (ASR) Battery not being charged lubricants etc. Adaptive damping system (ADS) Charge indicator lamp 15, Catalytic converter Adjusting steering column Brake fluid 17,90,116,139-140 Cellular telephone ADS 94, Brake pads worn Central locking system Air conditioner refrigerant Brake pad wear indicator lamp...
  • Page 149 Drinking and driving First aid kit Identification plates Driving instructions Fluid level for windshield and Indicator lamp symbols Driving off headlamp washer system low Infrared remote control Fuel Instrument cluster Emergency tensioning retractor (ETR) Fuel requirements Interior central locking system Emission control Gasoline additives Interior lighting...
  • Page 150 Maintenance 4, Safety guidelines for the seat belt, Technical data Manual release of fuel filler flap emergency tensioning Theft prevention Manual transmission retractor and airbag Tire inflation pressure Tires 17-18,93,96,103-104, Oil pressure gauge 15, Seat belt and backrest lock 108, 133, 135, Orthopedic seat backrest warning lamp Towing the vehicle...
  • Page 151 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 152 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 153: Air Conditioner

    • 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.

This manual is also suitable for:

500 sl

Table of Contents