slk 230 hydraulic pump free sample

2001 SLK320 Vario - today the top went down as always, but would not go up. No red light at all - checked the fuses, Fuse 7 5A was blown. Replaced it - blew again. Put in a 10A I hated to do it. but I was in a bind, and it started to go up - then halfway through, it stopped & dropped back slowly. The switch still lights up red fuse is okay, but I get the slow blink. The windows don"t even go up but they do with the window switches No evidence of leaks no wetness, but the stranger thing is that suddenly the door locks don"t operate from the dashboard switch or the remote fob. No sound of a pneumatic pump either.

I"d assume there is a short in the pump or wiring. I would start by checking the vehicle for fault codes. If the system is not working properly, a fault code will be set. This will be your best bet when diagnosing.

I just wanted to follow up on my low pressure issue, I found that there are O-rings on the pump bypass valve screw that dry rot and go bad, if you experience slow top function or no function at all but you hear the pump running then first check those o-rings. You must take off the larger hex bolt beside the bypass valve screw that retains it from fully screwing out so have a rag handy in case some fluid weeps out. There is a small spring on the tip of the valve screw so be careful to slowly remove. In my case the smaller o-ring was dry and cracked into 3 pieces, replaced it and now the system works strong like new again.

98 slk 230 with 61k miles ... top worked yesterday until end of the day we had put the top up and down several tines then it started to get slower each time until it had to be helped along with 1 person holding the button on and one helping push pull the trunk and top along as it would barely move, then this morning it’s working again although I just noticed the second time down it seemed a little slow.

Variotop quit working;"04 SLK230. No leaks,fluid level has not changed,no fault codes,battery load test 100% OK. Followed your proceedure; replaced relay after negative testwith control switch, hear & feel motor but red light dims slightly.If the motor runs could the pump have just gave up, it worked a week earlier, but was slow. what else can I do to Isolate or Confirm Pump Failure? Can it be rebuilt?really can"t see $400-800 for this part Thanks for your consideration.

I would start by checking for fault codes. If there are none and the oil looks aerated and the pump is loud, the pump may have failed. I am not sure about rebuilt options. With your vehicle info handy, give The Pelican Parts parts specialists a call at 1-888-280-7799. They can figure out what part or repair kit you need.

After i opened the rooftop and stayed in the middle for more than 7 minutes, hydraulic stopped. And now hydraulis not working only window and side little window. What should i do ? thanks

I have 2002 320 SLK to a fault I do drive it every day but I do run it a least two time a week, but one day I let the top down and as usual it worked just fine but when I gave it the command to return it did but I noticed hydraulic fluid just pouring from the roof top liner and the pump was empty right side and I just had that liner replace about six month early was could have cause this to happen. thank you

I"m having trouble with my 2003 slk230 roof everything seems to work fine until until I open the roof separates from the windscreen it"s seems to make the right noises but won"t separate without a push or punch at the top near the latch release hole can you give me some advice to the problem,on previus situation you mention it may be worn pivots bidding but where are these pivots located on the roof top?

Hello I"m having trouble with my 2003 slk roof everything seems to work fine until in gets to where the roof separates from the windscreen it"s seems to make the right noises but won"t desperate without a push can you give me some advice to the problem

I have a 2001 SLK320. When I first got the vehicle the top was not working. I checked the fluid, there was none. Filled the fluid and the top worked fine. Once. Noticed that all the fluid was leaking out of the rear trunk lift cylinders. After replacing both cylinders the top still does not work. When I push the button to open I can hear the pump, both rear windows go sown and then nothing happens. The trunk latches do not release.

Thank you for this image by image posting...I have a SLK320 2003 and your instructions worked perfectly!! Saving me a lot of money. I bought the Mercedes Hydraulic fluid and Syringe injector on pelicanparts.com. You save me $$$$$$ Thank you so much for being smarter than the average bear...

Hi, I have 2005 CLK500 and the soft top won"t close no move at all. When I want to close the top, only the head rest got down. I check hydraulic fluid Ok, I check relays changed for new, nothing. I tried to open the top manually how it is supposed to do, and the hard top of the top cover want not to move out. I pulled very hard with the two handles string. It sound to be locked. What can I try? One thing I know the right bow cylinder leak and I need to replace but at the moment I can"t get access at all because of the top is in the compartment. I need to get it out.

Just purchased a 2002 slk 230, with just over 27,000 miles. Exterior looks showroom new, interior has a little wear. Bought as a car to add to our two car fleet daily cars, and as a weekend toy.

We discovered an oil leak coming from the rear driver"s side whenever we put the top up or down. The top and all windows operate good, but we are loosing what appears to be hydraulic oil. We discovered this leak a couple weeks after purchase, and after having taken the car to a Mercedes dealership for a thorough diagnostics...as we purchased it used. Diagnostics showed no urgent problems with the car"s engine, main thing was it needed belt replacements. Obviously, they did not do a diagnostics on the operations of the top.

Once you confirm it is hydraulic fluid, inspect the side with the leak for a work line or cylinder that leaks with the top open. One of the two will likely be leaking. - Nick at Pelican Parts

98 slk, the roof went down fine, but would not come back up. Next morning it came back up. Does the hydraulic pump automatically cut out if low on fluid or is this a switch problem?

Hi there Pelican staff, I have a SLK230 1998 Model, my windows and roof are not working. I have checked all fuses. There is no noise coming from the roof pump. I have been told it might be a faulty Multifuction Control Module. my indicators blinks very fast, and the interior does not operate when i open the doors,

Dear Pelican Staff: I have a 2000 Mercedes slk 230.I rebuilt the front 3 hydraulic cylinders and roof worked fine for a month.Then the trunk lid cylinders began to leak.I rebuilt them.Now my windows go down, I hear the pump, but my trunk lid will not tilt up.It seems to be locked.My fluid level is good...the trunk lid will not tilt open for the process to continue...Any suggestions on switches or sensors to check..Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated...Thank you ...Russ

Hello. I have a 2000 SLK 320 Kompressor. The Vario Top was working fine for over a year...I bought it used stationed in Okinawa...used cars are a "way of life" for service mbrs. Car works great...until recently regarding the top. When putting the top down, the mechanism seems to work/sound as it is working correctly, but when the roof starts to disengage/unlatch from the windshield, the front right latch does not disengage and the roof does not unlatch from the windshield. All windows work fine, the trunk lifts as normal/as it is ready to accept the roof...but the roof is stuck as described above. Any recommendation on what to examine first and then second? Thanks.

2001 SLK230 R170, my roof cylinder will close the hooks to the windshield and then when I release the red button, the roof cylinder backs out slowly partially releasing the hooks. All other cylinders work fine, top opens and closes except the rear windows don"t come up. Is this a pump problem, switch problem, or possibly a broken wire?

Just began looking at a friends 2008 SLK280. Her ex- damaged the roof a when he lowered it without clearing the trunk properly even though the cover was back, there was still something in the way. Anyway, the rear "shelf" is now separated from the hinge mechanisms and the right rear hinge broken. The roof is closed at the moment is staying that way until I find out more. I want to find out what parts can be purchased individually in this area. For example, the "shelf" looks like it was bonded to the hinges and I am assuming that neither part can be bought separately. Even a "go-to" advice would be great.

Just to say that although my 1998 slk230 roof worked fine, I was/am losing oil. I could see the roof liner distorting but I thought is was external moisture - I didn"t realize there was a slave cylinder there. It seems obvious now - lol. I have purchased a repair kit and am going to attempt to remove the cylinder, drill a small hole in the side as advised online to assist in removing the circlip that holds in the o-ring. Any tips on removing the cylinder would be gratefully appreciated.

I have a 2003 slk 230. Sometime ago I noticed bubbles on the lining of the vario roof, and trouble opening. Later more bubbles and oil on lining and the roof stoped opening. Please tell me where to start cheching, the relay, pump,above the windshield cylinder. Also where can I have the cylinder rebuilt or purchased? for sometime prior to the roof failing the passengers side small window stopped closing, could this have been the cause?? Please help

Hello, I have a 2001 SLK 230. The left driver"s side trunk lid hydraulic actuator was leaking, so I had the pair rebuilt, reinstalled and topped off the hydraulic fluid. The roof raises and lowers normally and there are no leaks.

Hi! I have a problem regarding my slk 230 2003, ..when trying to switch the roof downward the 2 windows will open but the 2 quarter windows wouldn"t, the switch control will just blink a few and stops , and i cant hear the pump working..while when push forward the switch control the 2 windows will goes up and i can hear the pump working and also a movement from the mechanism is quite defined..hydraulic oil level is just a bit lwer than the 2nd upper line or just nearly touching the upper line..your suggestion regarding my problem will be greatly appreciated..thank"s in advance..good day!

The fluid line should be visible through the access door on the trunk"s right rear side. If it"s low, add approved hydraulic fluid (#000-989-91-03-10-M36 for a liter bottle) until the level is in the acceptable range. - Casey at Pelican Parts

I opened the roof with the driver door open and now I can"t get it to close back up . Mercedes SLK230 Convertible 1998 Will having the door open cause a problem?

Where should the hydraulic fluid level be when the top is down and in the trunk. My roof worked but was slower to open and then couldn"t get it to close. I looked at the reservoir and it was empty .

My top had a leak fro the locking device then became very week desides runing both uppernseals the top in make nise wupith no movement to the roll barn as all, level is good now, did I lock or fry somethintnor the unit has to be deed after the refill. I"m greeting a dtc code that the trigger switch is not opperable and the pump is GD. I don"t believe these code they r not star diags, hat do u suggest

My SLK230 1988, roof can"t be closed. I followed the owner manual and closed it manually but quarter windows are still down. I would like to replace the pump"s Relay to give it a try. Is there anything i need to reset after replacing the Relay and before pushing the button to try to reopen the roof?

My 2001 SLK 320 roof leaks oil and now fluid bottle is empty but roof completely open and won"t close- where do I fill up hydraulic fluid and may I use any hydraulic fluid in absence of recommended fluid from dealership here????

Any one has had the problem of the hard top slamming shut? I Just recently started having that problem. Someone told me that it might be due to having air in the hydraulics?

Please help, I am based in dubai. My 1998 slk230 roof use to work good but sometimes I would have to replace the a fuse among the 3 in the trunk. Recently I pressed the roof to open, the trunk opened but the top passenger side seem stuck but driver side released but cant open. I discovered oil in the pump was low but that was after someone removed one of the hydraulic lines so we could manually push to close the trunk. Now i am having a leak on the point of contact between line and cylinder what can I do?

Hi I have a 2001 230slk I replaced cylinder on roof and filled pump up with fluid , now when I raise roof it over shoots the locking pins any idea what"s wrong appears to be out of line.

How do I check fault code on 2001 slk230 roof not working when I use switch cant hear a noise at all noticed fluid was low and replaced cylinder in roof .

I have a 1998 slk 230, I recently bought the car and was told the pump was bad, when I clicked the button it lowered the back windows, I then manually put the top down but couldn"t get the trunk to latch up front, I put the top back up and latched it up top but now the Windows won"t even go up, I bought a new pump and installed it but still have nothing, I think the 2 trunk release cables are stuck or broke because it still will not shut, and ideas on something I can try before I spend an arm and leg taking it to the dealership? Thanks

I have a 2001 Mercedes SLK230 and when I try to put the top down it blows a fuse. I went through 4 of the 40 amp fuses just trying to put the top back up. Would that be a control module? Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.

More likely a drive unit or pump. I would grab a wiring diagram and review what the fuse powers, then check if the harness or component is causing the short.- Nick at Pelican Parts

On my 2000 SLK 230, when the hood goes up, and after the windows are up etc, there is still a wirring noise from the boot that continues all the time . No Noise when hood is fully down

Sounds like the hydraulic pump is not "being told to switch off " ? a Will it damage anything to driv with the wirring noise ?, 2 Likely cause ? Sensor ? and where ? Thanks Martin

I have a 1999 Slk230 Compressor that some of the hydraulic lines blew out of the pump and it stopped working. What could have caused that and do you have a diagram of where the blown out hydraulic lines are supposed to go. I am replacing the pump

Hello need help with my slk 320 2003 the the switch to open the top of the convertible does not work it does not light up when I started the car it does not blink couple time I try to open the top nothing happens I check the relay i even put a newcone and check all the fuses ,, any idea why the swith to open the top does no turn on and light up and works ??,, please advise help !!!!!!

I have a 2000 slk230 whose top needed more and more help until it wouldn"t work at all. Pump runs, Fluid is full and manual valve is closed. Is there a pump rebuild kit available? Is there a way to test the pump at home?

I have a 2002 SLK. Noticed after 30 days of liited use that the fabric on the hard top has balloned to the extent that it touches my head while driving. How do I resolve it ?

1999 slk 230 original owner, 46K miles. Suddenly the fabric on interior roof has expanded away from the ceiling - like a balloon. What happened? And what do I do to fix it?

My car 1999 slk1999 convertible top slowly dropped in the trunk. The light stay on & trunk is not close. How can i reset it? what"s wrong? Please advise.

Good morning, I think from reading all issues I have fault codes issues. Switch inside car flashes but nothing happens.I have replaced the two hydraulic cylinders in the trunk. Put everything back to original way it was.

bought the car recently like 2 month ago the roof worked fine in opening and closing but then when i opened the roof it wasnt as powerful as before i tried closing it but it closed from the driver side only i checked the pump and found an oily mess with the hydrolic fluid down but i couldnt locate the leak !!

Clean the oil from the pump, then top it up. Run the top for a few days, then recheck the pump for leaks. Look for clean oil, that will be the leak. - Nick at Pelican Parts

just had the convertible pump replaced on my 99 slk230. seems to work fine until when I press the button to put the top up halfway the top free falls closed with a big bang.What should be done?

Hi Nick. After driving my "01 SLK320 one rainy day, I noticed the next day in my garage where car was parked, an oily mess that ran the sides of vehicle. Coincidentally next time I tried to lower the top it wouldn"t work at its normal speed and couldn"t even lower it all the way. I went ahead and closed it back manually. Since then I don"t even get any sounds when activating switch nor a light on switch. BTW, the hydraulic reservoir is empty. Where should I start? Thanks

Can you please tell me how to remove the cylinder lines from the hydraulic pump. These lines have the 90degreee bend in metal inserted into the pump. I see there are several torx plugs but I do not know if they have relevance to this or not.

Hi, I have a 2004 SL600, my pump failed during a cycle. I manually had it closed by a mechanic. I then ordered a new pump and changed it. I can hear it run but it"s like the top is stuck or locked? Can you manually lock the roof or pump? Additional information while I was waiting on the pump the safety roll bar got deployed during driving for safety. I can"t get that down as well, it moves shortly but back to possition also like it"s locked?

The pump may have an emergency raising pressure relief screw / valve, if released, the pump will run and the top will not move. - Nick at Pelican Parts

2005 350 slk vario roof leaking fluid and will not open/close. hydraulic pump is behind seats and under retractable roof area - can not get to from trunk and have to remove center console to remove metal behind carpet behind seats. How do you remove center console?

Hi, I have a 2004 SLK 320 that I just rebuilt the top roof latch cylinder. After reassembling everything I tried to open or close the top, nothing happened. I had someone in the car and try the switch and nothing from the relay. I am buying a relay and will try again. Is there something I might have overlooked?

the rear windows only move in association with the roof functions, even though they are not controlled hydraulically, they will not work properly if the roof does not. they receive commands based on what the roof is doing. so if one of the roof sensors, ex the three in the forward roof/windshield attachment area, are misaligned or bad,there will be a problem. also where the roof folds the wires tend to go bad.

Hi Nick, I replaced the top lock cylinder but when I was putting the hydraulic lines 31 and 33 into the pump 2 other lines 42 and 22 came out and I am not sure into which holes they go. I tried to read the positions from the pictures and I think that I found those 2 but is there a picture or schematic that has the positions labeled that you might share with us. If someone was to replace a pump motor they would need that info. Thanks

There are flaps on either side of the deck lid below the rear window of a 1999 230 SLK. When the retractable roof is engaged these flaps are not coming up fully which interferes with the roof folding back into the trunk. The flaps are actuated by braided wire mechanism. The wire seems to be stretched out. My problem is that I do not know what to call these things or know a part # to try and order replacements. Please help indentify this part.

The motor will change tones, to me it seems like the top is not unlocking for the trunk to open? The pump holds full pressure and is not leaking. I"ve taken to repair shop and they can"t get a code to pull up due to there being a fault in the CAN sensor not communicating.

I have replaced the hydraulic cylinder that was leaking. I still cannot get the trunk to open so the top can fold down when I press the switch. However it will close if I manually pull the trunk up and then close it with the switch. Does this mean I may need a new hydraulic pump?

Might be, does the pump run? How does it sound? for example, does it sound like it is free-wheeleing, or does the tone change? - Nick at Pelican Parts

hy!i would like to now where is the system to take codes erreur for mercedes slk 230 1998 i have one Under the dash driver side is theres another for the top?Thank you for your help!

I recently purchased a 2001 slk230...the top will not go down. The Windows go down but the trunk will not engage and top will not go down. I can hear the pump and have replaced the relay...any other suggestions? I have noticed that it looks as if someone has manually put the top back up using the cables in the trunk. Thanks

what are the causes of hydraulic cylinder will be damage? my 1997 mercedes benz slk230 was bumped by a 6 wheelers truck and the damaged of the bumper was minimal. Is it possible that it will cause the damage of the hydraulic cylinder?

Hello, i want to ask you mr nick, about my slk230 top convertible, what the problem if i open the top work better, but when i want to close the top it not working. Only open the top is work. What the problem?

Hey Nick, I"m in the process of replacing my front top lock hydraulic cylinder on my 1999 SLK230 Mercedes, and need to disable and remove the two hydraulic fluid lines from the pump. So, which two on the pump are for the front top lock cylinder? They"re not labeled as far as I can tell.

slk230 2003 I disconnecter the battery and reset the code and the top works but the two hooks connected to the roof will not open th allow roof to seat on the algnment pins.The cylinder I replaced is connected to the hooks can it go in backward?

My vario roof in 2001 slk 320 started getting slower. And sometimes I had to give it a boost. Now when I press button the pump just had hums. Could it possibly be the pump itself. I have ordered a used working one of eBay. It doesn"t look to hard to replace. I just had all cylinders replaced earlier this year.

Replaced all 5 rams for roof slk 200 but now when I lower the roof all seems fine except the boot will not close. Checked the switch Om the right boot ram with multi meter and appears to be working

2001 SLK 230, Mercedes dealer couldn"t find the problem after checking for fault codes. Convertible top functions fine to bring the windows down and open the trunk. One every 5 attempts it continues the cycle bringing the roof down. I was advised to replace the trunk lid limit switch and I did put a new one but the problem remained. Every time I have to reach this switch and shake the wires to make it work. I am suspecting a bad wire back to the control unit.! What is your advise, and where is the control unit located? Appreciate if you have a picture. Any help will be highly appreciated.

Is the rear window connected to the hydraulic system for the convertible? Please get back to me ASAP I need to know because my mechanic fixed the hydraulic motor for the convertible and one of the rear windows because it went down and didnt want to come back up. He then said it was an electrical issue, two days later the window went down and he said that he never did anything to that window but he did! he than said it was not connected to the work he did on the hydraulic for the convertible.

Took my 98 slk to a dealer to repair leak at roof latches. Roof works fine but warning buzzer and light come on every 10 miles. Push button for 5 seconds to make pump run, light goes off. Dealer can"t find problem. Suspect air in hydraulics. Can you tell me procedure to bleed the system?

I have a 1999 230SLK. Vario roof works OK but a bit slow and sometimes needs a little push up to get it to start opening. When parked for a while in the hot sun, the roof locks will not release. Seems as if the viscosity of the hydraulic may be affected by the heat, or maybe my pump unit has some wear. Appreciate your advice.

The fill and drain plug is on top, a 4-mm inside hex bolt in the forward right corner. Drain as much fluid as possible before shipping the pump to us. Removal from the car is easy: disconnect from the wiring harness, disconnect the hydraulic lines (they all pull out after you turn the retaining plates on top - all hoses are numbered and match the engraved numbers on the retaining plates - no need to loosen or tighten the bolts on the plates), unbolt from the car. Optionally remove the mounting frame to simplify shipping. Wrap in a large garbage bag to contain inevitable fluid leakage, buffer the parcel well inside, ideally double box for shipping.

A serpentine belt is a relatively long, flat, multi-ribbed belt that is driven by the engine’s crankshaft pulley. The belt drives many, and often all, of the engine accessories such as the alternator, air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, water pump, and air pump. The serpentine belt is tensioned by a hydraulic or spring-loaded automatic tensioner. Some older cars use a serpentine belt to drive most accessories but will also have a shorter v-style belt to drive, for example, the power steering pump.

Engine overheating. Often, the serpentine belt drives the water pump. In those applications, if the belt breaks the engine will overheat in seconds to minutes. If the belt is inadequately tensioned, you may notice higher-than-normal engine operating temperature.

No. Should the belt have visible damage, you risk unexpected and sudden breakage that could potentially leave you stranded. Serpentine belt problems that result in the alternator not charging may cause the battery to discharge, which will result in loss of electrical power to the vehicle. Additionally, if a deteriorated belt breaks and that belt drives the water pump, the engine will overheat in a matter of seconds.

If Michelangelo were alive today-instead of having the gall to die in 1564-he"d probably be too old to fully enjoy the new Mercedes-Benz SLK 230. Nevertheless, with his love of design, architecture, and sculpting, he would be touched by the blissful yet stunning manner in which this roadster is constructed. It"s therefore entirely appropriate that Mercedes-Benz invited Motor Trend to Florence, Italy, for the first drive of its all-new "98 sports car. After all, Florence is where Michelangelo"s "David" is on display.

By early 1997, when the SLK debuts, roadster mavens will have a tough time deciding where to spend their $40,000. Among the European triumvirate that consists of BMW"s Z3, Porsche"s Boxster, and the SLK, the Mercedes offering is a terrific medium between ultraprofile and ultraperformance. Think of it as a downsized SL500 and you"ll get the idea.

It"s obvious that the rear-drive SLK is styled to resemble its big brother, but don"t let the photos fool you. M-B"s latest creation is a whopping 19.8 inches shorter in length than its flagship two-seater and weighs over 1200 pounds less. But, in a master stroke of mechanized alchemy, this adds up to a new type of car that feels at least as roomy inside as the pricey SL-Series, yet costs only about half as much as the "entry level" SL320.

Park the SLK next to a Honda Accord, and the Japanese sedan seems to take on Godzilla-size proportions. Yes, the SLK is a tiny car, yet it commands a presence that makes it appear much larger. The Z3"s front styling also effectively works this optical trick, which gives both cars the visual clout of their more expensive family members.

Line up the three German roadsters side by side, however, and you won"t believe your eyes: At 157.3 inches long, the SLK is 1.2 inches shorter than the Z3, and a mind-boggling 12.3 inches briefer than the Boxster. In wheelbase dimensions, the Mercedes (at 94.5 inches) is also more compact than the BMW (at 96.3 inches) and the Porsche (95.0 inches). When it comes to curb weight, though, the tables turn: The Z3 weighs in at 2690 pounds, the Boxster carries 2760 pounds, and the SLK holds down the earth with 2922 pounds.

The reason for the newest M-B"s heft is also the item that gives it such a formed-from-a-billet feel: its body structure. Typical of Mercedes design, this roadster embodies superb torsional rigidity, and even feels less disrupted when traversing rough roads or train tracks than the class-leading SL. Outstanding crash protection is another important byproduct of such a design, and the SLK"s occupants are further encapsulated by door-mounted side airbags in addition to the dual front units.

Despite such tight constraints, M-B"s designers have loaded the SLK with style, equipment, and amenities befitting a car of nearly twice the price. The styling is predominantly mini-SL, but is seasoned with a retrospective nod toward the graceful 300SL and 190SL roadsters of the "50s and "60s. The wedge profile combines with the car"s extremely short overhangs, husky 16-inch wheel and tire package, and lack of ornamental gewgaws to produce a look that"s at once upscale, sporty, youthful, and classic.

But this is also a design that"s smart. There"s more interior legroom than in the current SL, more trunk space than in a Z3 or SL (12.3 cubic feet), and wind-tunnel-designed body shaping that minimizes turbulence in the open cockpit as well as keeps the side windows free of water and road muck in inclement weather. To do all this required giving up a bit of aerodynamic countenance, however, as the SLK bites the air with a top-up 0.35 coefficient of drag-a mediocre number in this day and age. While the shape of the windshield frame and side mirrors effectively keeps top-down tonsorial muss to a minimum even at highway speeds, additional attenuation comes from a removable windblocker screen that fits over the rollbar hoops like the fishnet bustier of a Parisian torch singer: replete with snaps, eyelets, hooks, ties, and hook-and-loop fasteners.

Nevertheless, the real star of the show is the retractable hard top-an even more sophisticated version of the SL"s wonderfully choreographed folding lid. A mere single finger"s worth of effort is required to lower or raise the top (all metal here, as opposed to the SL"s canvas), as all you need do is hold down the red switch on the console during the 25 seconds it takes the roof to perform its breathtaking mechanical terpsichore. Five hydraulic cylinders, several hinges, numerous position sensors, and an electronic control module handle the top-up and -down chores, so you can enjoy being the center of attention as crowds form to view the spectacle. Virtually silent in operation, the raising and lowering antics elicit more oohs, aahs, and wows than a Fourth of July fireworks celebration at Disney World. Plan on showing any new passenger the procedure at least twice.

The cockpit of the SLK also is mini-SL in design. The long doors open wide for ease of entry and exit, and you"ll perch atop two-tone leather bucket seats with firm cushions yet little side support. There"s a retro look to the instruments, dual-temp controls for the ventilation system, a telescoping steering column (but no tilt feature), and carbon-optic trim throughout. You"ll also find a large glovebox, myriad small storage nooks, plus two cupholders that pull out from the top of the instrument panel. And, despite the lack of power seats, the finish and design of virtually every component is outstanding. There"s even a child-seat sensor in the passenger seat that disables the appropriate airbag.

In addition to the usual selection of M-B tones, three SLK-exclusive interior colors (Salsa, Navy, and Oyster) complement the three exclusive exterior paint options (Sunburst Yellow, Bahama Blue, and Calypso Green); however, the latest news is that some Mercedes execs feel the yellow, as covers our test car, won"t sell well in North America, so they"ve restricted that hue to other shores. If you would buy the yellow, write to MBNA"s President and CEO, Michael Basserman, at One Mercedes Drive, Montvale, NJ 07645, and twist his arm a bit.

Performance is important in a sports car, but this is no Viper-eater-which is exactly as Mercedes intended. The SLK was envisioned from its inception to be a luxo-sport machine, not an all-out ground pounder. The target buyers are 30- to 39-year-olds, half of which are women, and a large majority will be new to M-B ownership. With only 6000 SLK"s coming to the U.S. the first year, you"d better get in line now.

Power comes from the same basic 2.3-liter DOHC four found in the C230 sedan, but here it"s augmented by an Eaton M62 supercharger (hence the "kompressor" fender badges). The blower is mounted on the engine"s lower right and is driven by the same belt that runs the alternator; an air-to-air intercooler is plumbed inline. Running a relatively high (for a pressurized engine) 8.8:1 compression ratio, and equipped with M-B"s variable valve timing system plus higher-capacity fuel injectors, the SLK"s 16-valve engine delivers 191 horsepower at 5300 rpm, and 206 pound-feet of torque over a range of 2500 to 4800 rpm. This flat torque curve is what superchargers do best and gives the small four-cylinder engine the response and performance of M-B"s 2.8-liter six, but without the corresponding packaging or weight penalties.

The only transmission available in U.S.-spec SLK"s is a five-speed electronically controlled automatic, a superb unit featuring adaptive shift logic and a winter-start (second gear) mode for both Drive and Reverse gears. Compact (only two feet long) and light (176 pounds), this transmission better fits the personality of this car than the slower-shifting manual, which we also sampled. According to Mercedes" engineers, the automatic is also slightly quicker from zero to 60 mph: 7.2 seconds versus 7.4 for the manual.

Romp on the gas from a stop, and the SLK moves out smartly, after a half-second"s hesitation that"s typical of most every Mercedes today. You"ll hear a slight howl from the supercharger during aggressive driving, though the exhaust is a bit too muted for our sporting tastes. The flat torque curve makes nipping and tucking through urban traffic a delight, as the engine doesn"t have to scream at redline to usher a hearty push in the back of acceleration. The automatic shifts seamlessly and will kick down from 100 mph to provide extra passing power. We flogged the littlest Mercedes fairly vigorously through the Italian countryside and along the lightly trafficked auto routes, tasting the car"s 143-mph top speed more than once.

In straight-line go, the SLK will eat a Z3 for lunch, but BMW is on its way with a 2.8-liter DOHC six for its Bond-mobile, which should tip the odds in its favor. Mercedes hinted at a "sport" package in the works for the SLK, but it likely will be limited to wheel, tire, and suspension tweaks, not any underhood muscle building.

Although a few buyers will find fault with the SLK"s acceleration, we can"t imagine any who won"t love the handling. On the ultratwisty two-lanes that weave through Tuscany, the car rewarded with a light, supple driving style and virtually neutral handling. Outfitted with a double-wishbone front suspension and Mercedes" patented five-link setup at the rear, and shod with staggered-size wheels and tires (16x7.0-inch alloys up front wearing Dunlop Sport 2000 205/55VR16s; 16x8.0 at the rear with 225/50VR16s), the car"s handling manners are unfetteringly competent, undeniably secure, unequivocally spirited.

Frankly, we weren"t prepared to like the SLK as much as we do. Photos and words don"t do this car justice. Only driving it will. So, we"d recommend you fight your way through the hoards before it"s too late. With so few sets of SLK keys coming to the States this year, you"d best prepare for a trampling.

Where will I find ...? ... 212 First aid kit... 212 Vehicle tool kit, vehicle jack ... 212 Spare wheel (SLK 230 Kompressor, SLK 320)... 213 TIREFIT kit (SLK 32 AMG only) ... 214 Unlocking/locking in an emergency .. 216 Unlocking the vehicle ...

Warranty coverage... 265 Loss of Service and Warranty Information Booklet ... 265 Identification labels ... 266 Layout of poly-V-belt drive ... 267 SLK 230 Kompressor ... 267 SLK 320 ... 267 SLK 32 AMG... 267 Engine... 268 Rims and Tires ... 269 Same size tires...

Operation Engine compartment Checking engine oil level via display (SLK 320, SLK 32 AMG only) When checking the oil level the vehicle must be parked on level ground be at normal operating temperature have been stationary for at least five minutes with the engine turned off To check the engine oil level via the display in the speedometer, do the following:...

Engine compartment Excess oil must be siphoned or drained off. It could cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. Screw filler cap 2 back on filler neck. SLK 320, SLK 32 AMG...

SLK 230 Kompressor 1 Coolant expansion tank 2 Float in the filler neck Using a rag, turn the cap to the left to the first detent position. Allow any ex- cess pressure to escape. Continue turning the cap to the left and remove it.

Do not continue to drive. Otherwise the engine will overheat due to an in- operative water pump which may re- sult in damage to the engine. Notify an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center. If it is intact: Drive immediately to the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

Vehicles with TIREFIT kit (SLK 32 AMG) and CD changer* in trunk 1 Storage box cover 2 CD changer* The vehicle tool kit, jack and wheel wrench are located underneath the CD changer 2. Lift trunk floor cover. Open storage box cover 1. 3 Latch Slide latch 3 forward to disengage storage box.

Practical hints Opening/closing in an emergency 1 Screw of hydraulic pump 2 Control cable, right 3 Hex-socket wrench Remove hex-socket wrench 3 from cover. Using wrench 3 turn screw 1 of the hydraulic pump counterclockwise as far as it will go. Vehicles with factory-installed CD changer: Guide hex-socket wrench through the...

Practical hints Flat tire Inflating the tire 1 Flap 2 Air hose with pressure gauge and vent screw 3 Union nut 4 Electrical plug Warning! Observe safety instructions on air pump la- bel. Open flap 1 on air pump. Pull out electrical plug 4 and air hose with pressure gauge 2.

TIREFIT to provide a reliable tire repair In this case, TIREFIT cannot properly seal the tire. Do not drive the vehicle. Contact the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or call Roadside Assistance. Warning! To prevent possible injury when unscrewing air pump filler hose from tire valve after in- flating the tire, use a rag since the tire valve could be hot.

TIREFIT to provide a reliable tire repair. In this case, TIREFIT cannot properly seal the tire. Do not drive the vehicle. Contact the nearest Mercedes-Benz Center or call Roadside Assistance. After attaining a tire pressure of 26 psi (1.8 bar), press 0 on electric air pump switch 8.

Before storing the jack in the trunk, it should be fully collapsed, with pin and handle folded in. Inflating the collapsible spare tire Take the electric air pump out of the trunk ( page 214). 1 Flap 2 Air hose with pressure gauge and vent screw 3 Union nut 4 Electrical plug...

Technical data Rims and Tires 17’’ tires SLK 230 Kompressor, SLK 320 (Sport Package*) Front axle: ⁄ Rims (light alloy) J x17 H2 Wheel offset 1.46 in (37 mm) Summer tires (radial-ply tires) 225/45 R17 91Y 225/45 ZR17 91Y Rear axle: ⁄...

Removing Vehicle battery 252 Wheel 246 Wiper blade insert 233 Wiper blades 233 Replacing Backup lamp bulbs 230 Brake lamp bulbs 230 Bulbs 226 Front lamp bulbs 228 Front turn signal bulbs 228 Fuses 260 High beam bulbs 228 License plate lamp bulbs 231 Low beam bulbs 228 Parking lamp bulbs 229 Rear fog lamp bulbs 230...

The idea of a convertible with a folding metal roof wasn’t a new one, but it’s fair to say the Mercedes-Benz SLK kick-started the genre in the modern motoring age. Appearing as a concept at the 1994 Paris Motor Show it garnered plenty of attention, and with production model making its European debut at the 1996 Turin Show it arrived in the UK later the same year. Styled by Bruno Sacco, the compact roadster got its name from ‘Sportlich/Leicht/Kurz’ or Sporty/Lightweight/Short, and it pretty much achieved each of those.

Power initially came from a supercharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder that provided ample performance – 0-60mph took seven seconds – but as part of a facelift in 2000 that was joined by the SLK 200K with a 2.0-litre engine.

At the same time buyers were offered the choice of a smooth V6 in the SLK320 that, with 215bhp, provided a genuine 150mph wind-in-the-hair experience. The final addition for the first-generation model came in 2001 with the arrival of the SLK32, its AMG-built V6 producing a storming 349bhp that slashed the 0-60 time to around five seconds; any doubts that the SLK wasn’t really a proper sports car were firmly put to bed.

The latter half of the 1990s saw a dip in Mercedes quality and one consequence of that was a propensity for corrosion, the SLK duly suffering its fair share. It crops up just about anywhere, so a thorough examination of every panel is needed, but pay particular attention to the front wings where bubbling around edges and light units is likely a sign of deeper trouble. If possible, have a look behind the indicators and headlights.

Turning to the roof, one in fine fettle should raise and lower in 25–30 seconds so anything else needs investigation. Failed micro-switches, tired hydraulic rams, or leaks in the system could all be responsible, as could issues with the Combined Control Module (CCM) located under the bonnet; this controls a variety of electrical functions, so a series of component failures makes this a likely culprit.

Don’t despair if the roof isn’t functioning correctly as there’s plenty of Club and specialist expertise on hand, and the fix might not be as wallet-wilting as you feared. One sensible bit of preventative maintenance is changing the hydraulic fluid, especially if it appears dark rather than golden in colour; it can be a bit fiddly but it should take a competent DIYer less than two hours.

All of the engines manage big mileages with proper care, so a fat sheaf of maintenance bills will bring peace of mind. Regular oil and filter changes will prevent timing chain wear, and with the M111 supercharged units it’s just a case of listening out for any obvious whines and ensuring that the boost cuts in at around 2000rpm. It’s also worth checking for oil leaks and for coolant escaping from a tired radiator or water pump.

The SLK was available with five- and six-speed manuals or a five-speed automatic and which you prefer is a matter of personal taste. Manuals aren’t all that slick to use but they are essentially tough, so if you’re considering a high-mileage example it’s just a matter of ensuring there are no whines or signs of ailing synchromesh. It’s worth checking the clutch pedal operation, too, as problems with the pedal box can crop up.

Plenty of SLKs have dropped into the bargain basement, and that means the obvious checks for shabby seat trim, bolsters and carpets. The cost of reviving a scruffy cabin can soon mount up – although a ready supply of affordable second-hand parts helps here – and even decent examples can be suffering from plastics that have lost their coating. It’s unsightly more than anything and there are various ways of rejuvenating it.

Water ingress can cause many woes, especially under the bonnet where the CCM and various relays and fuses are located; moisture here causes all manner of headaches, while water getting into the boot can affect the PSE pneumatic pump that’s responsible for various functions including the central locking; used ones are £150–200. Many frustrating hours could be spent eradicating electrical problems, so unless you really enjoy trouble-shooting you’d be better off looking for another example.

While it’s not considered to be as driver-focussed as the likes of the Porsche Boxster or Mazda MX-5, the SLK does a great job of distilling elements of the larger SL into a lighter, sportier package. Throw in some strong engines, a clever all-season roof and smart styling and there’s plenty to love about the littlest Mercedes convertible.

Prices haven’t really changed that much over the last few years, and with a good number for sale at any one time you can afford to be fussy. Reasonable ones in need of TLC can be found for £1000 or less, but upping the budget to £2500–3500 will bag something that’s really quite nice. The V6s can command a little more money but there’s not much in it – condition is more important in any case – while the SLK320 starts at around £9000 and can top-out in the late teens.

You can find regular models being offered for £7000–10,000 but these need to be exceptional and with a very low mileage. Ultimately, an extremely sound SLK is well within reach without breaking the bank.