Description
Factory Mercedes SL Class R231 Workshop Manual (2012–2020)
This factory-level workshop manual covers every R231-chassis SL Class sold in the US market from 2012 through 2020, giving technicians and dedicated owners the same repair depth used by authorized Mercedes-Benz service centers.
Powertrain & Drive Coverage
| Component | Variants Covered |
|---|---|
| Petrol | M276 3.0L V6 biturbo (SL400/SL450), M278 4.7L V8 biturbo (SL500/SL550), M157 5.5L V8 biturbo AMG (SL63 AMG), M279 6.0L V12 biturbo (SL65 AMG) |
| Diesel | N/A |
| Transmissions | 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic, 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic |
| Drive | RWD |
| Model Years | 2012–2020 |
| Badge Twins | N/A |
Common SL Class R231 Repairs Covered
| System | Procedures |
|---|---|
| ABC Hydraulic Suspension | Strut replacement, hydraulic pump overhaul, pressure sensor diagnosis, and fluid flush for the Active Body Control system — a known wear item on R231s |
| Retractable Hardtop | Folding roof mechanism adjustment, hydraulic cylinder replacement, limit switch calibration, and weatherstrip sealing |
| M278 / M157 Timing Chain | Tensioner inspection, timing chain guide replacement, and complete chain service procedures addressing common stretch issues on early build V8 engines |
| Brake System | Front and rear caliper service, rotor resurfacing specs, AMG-specific brake pad replacement, and electronic parking brake actuator reset |
Format & Delivery
PDF. Instant download; lifetime re-downloads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ABC (Active Body Control) suspension system documented in this manual?
Yes. The manual includes full diagnostic and repair procedures for the R231’s ABC hydraulic suspension, covering pressure testing, strut replacement, pump overhaul, and control module fault-finding — critical given how frequently ABC components require attention on higher-mileage SL Class vehicles.
Which specific SL variants are included in this R231 manual?
All R231 production variants are covered: SL400, SL450, SL500, SL550, SL63 AMG, and SL65 AMG. Procedures account for differences between the standard and AMG-specific components throughout the vehicle.
Does this manual cover the retractable hardtop mechanism?
Yes. Complete procedures for the folding metal roof are included — hydraulic cylinder servicing, limit switch adjustment, motor replacement, and weatherstrip installation are all documented with step-by-step instructions and torque specifications.
What format is the manual?
This manual is a PDF file. After purchase you receive instant download access and can view or print it on any device. Your download link is available for life, so you can retrieve it again whenever needed.
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