308 OperationEngine compartment
Closing
Let the hood drop from a height of 
approximately 1 ft (30 cm).
The hood will lock audibly.
Check to make sure the hood is fully 
closed. 
If you can raise the hood at a point 
above the headlamps, then it is not 
properly closed. Open it again and let it 
drop with somewhat greater force.
Engine oil
The amount of oil your engine needs will 
depend on a number of factors, including 
driving style. Higher oil consumption can 
occur when
the vehicle is new
the vehicle is driven frequently at 
higher engine speeds
Engine oil consumption checks should only 
be made after the vehicle break-in period.
Warning!
G
If you see flames or smoke coming from the 
engine compartment, or if the coolant tem-
perature display in the multifunction display 
indicates that the engine is overheated, do 
not open the hood. Move away from vehicle 
and do not open the hood until the engine 
has cooled down. If necessary, call the fire 
department.Warning!
G
The engine is equipped with a transistorized 
ignition system. Because of the high voltage 
it is dangerous to touch any components 
(ignition coils, spark plug sockets, diagnos-
tic socket) of the ignition system
with the engine running
while starting the engine
if ignition is “on” and the engine is 
turned manually
Warning!
G
Be careful that you do not close the hood on 
anyone.
iDo not use any special lubricant addi-
tives, as these may damage the drive 
assemblies. Using special additives not 
approved by Mercedes-Benz may 
cause damage not covered by the 
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty. 
More information on this subject is 
available at any authorized 
Mercedes-Benz Center.
 
446 Technical dataElectrical systemModel
SLK 280
SLK 350
SLK 55 AMG
Generator (alternator)
14 V/150 A
14 V/150 A
14 V/150 A
Starter motor
12 V/1.4 kW
12 V/1.7 kW
12 V/1.7 kW
Battery
12 V/62 Ah
12 V/74 Ah
12 V/74 Ah
Spark plugs
NGK PLKR 6A
Bosch Platin Y 7 MPP33
NGK PLKR 6A
NGK IFR6D10
Electrode gap
0.031 in (0.8 mm)
0.031 in (0.8 mm)
0.039 in (1.0 mm)
Tightening torque
15 – 22 lb-ft (20 – 30 Nm)
15 – 22 lb-ft (20 – 30 Nm)
18 – 22 lb-ft (25 – 30 Nm)