2005 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Service and Repair Manual

This factory service and repair manual for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL500 covers a Base-trim convertible with two doors. Its engine procedures cover the 5.0L V8 the data lists, a naturally aspirated gasoline unit with a single overhead camshaft layout. Around that engine the manual builds out coverage of the fuel and cooling systems, the transmission, the brake and suspension hardware, and the wiring of the open body, with specifications and diagrams for each.

Engines covered

• 5.0L V8 — SOHC, naturally aspirated, gasoline

Body styles covered

• 2-door convertible

Trims covered

• Base

Known issues on the 2005 SL500. NHTSA filed two recalls against broader groupings. The one against the 2005 SL-Class line involved certain vehicles whose Sensotronic Brake Control could switch too soon to its hydraulic fallback, caused by a deteriorating wiring connection or a pump that gave out early; the brakes still worked, but the pedal needed more force and traveled further. The other, against the 2005 R230-chassis models, concerned certain cars equipped with Active Body Control, where poorly soldered front acceleration sensors could leave the front suspension sitting unevenly. Seventeen complaints name the SL500, 6 about service brakes; 1 reported a crash, 2 a fire and 1 an injury. Brake and suspension procedures, wiring diagrams and diagnostics are covered.