I called MB today to inquire about technical manuals for my '99 SLK230. I was told that they are in the process of converting to CD ROM, but are still working on the 1996 models. They won't get to the 1999 models for several years! All that's available is micro-fiche for about $2,500.

Can anyone suggest a good service manual and where to obtain them?

Thanks

 

Sorry to say but there are none available for the SLK.

 

Hello, TCC,

There is an excellent manual for the SLK. It is the Motor "Imported Car Repair & Engine Performance Manual" (http://www.motor.com).
I bought one about six months ago, and I am quite impressed with it. It is the "Professional Trade Service Edition" (Second Edition), and as such, it is fairly expensive at $130.
The manual is written for people who have some experience working on automobiles. There are, for instance, no step-by-step, illustrated (Haynes-like) guides on how to change engine oil. The manual assumes that the user knows how to perform common maintenance procedures. There are, however, torque values, component locators, and sufficiently detailed instructions on how to replace or repair virtually every component on all M-B (and other European models - Audi to Volvo - from 1998-2001. It also includes all of the M-B TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins) issued up until the publication date (Oct. 2001).
The SLK 230 & 320 (1998-2001) are fully covered - including the SLJ 230 ("2 Passenger Sport). When a P0410 DTC popped up on my 230, I used the manual's troubleshooting section to zero in on the problem. That section gives a DTC interpretation, an explanation, a test and remedy for many common codes.
The manual isn't cheap, but it is, as far as I know, the only game in town.

All the best,

Paul O'Brien, Boston

 

That's good to know. I'd love to see one before paying $130, though. Considering that the CDs from MBUSA are around $120 each (some vehicles require multiple CDs at $120 each), I would expect it to be alot better than a Haynes/Chiltons type book.

I wonder how long before they add the '02 models, specifically, the SLK32 AMG.

Edit: Wow, 2500 pages!? However, the Motor website says the book covers only models from 1995 through 1999. Is the website really over 2 years out of date?

 

It looks as if new editions come out every 3 or 4 years. The website is only about 6 months out of date, since the new edition was published at the end of 2001.

The distributor told me I could return the manual (in unused condition) if I were not pleased with it - less shipping charges.

His name is Tony Choquette (413) 596-3878.

The 2002 SLK32 AMG, if it is covered at all, will probably be in the next edition - 2004-5?