1988 Mercedes 560SL Owners Manual

The 1988 Mercedes-Benz 560SL is a luxury roadster featuring a 5.6L V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, power-retractable soft top, removable hardtop, advanced safety systems, power steering, ABS brakes, climate control, and premium audio system. Below are key sections for vehicle overview, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Controls and Instrumentation 3. Operation Procedures 4. Technical Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Safety Systems 7. Top Operation 8. Driving Tips 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 5.6L V8 engine, automatic transmission, power soft top, removable hardtop, leather interior, power windows, central locking system.

FeatureDescription
Engine5.6L V8 gasoline engine with fuel injection
Transmission4-speed automatic with torque converter
Top SystemPower-retractable soft top with manual hardtop option
BrakesFour-wheel disc brakes with ABS
SuspensionIndependent front and rear suspension
SteeringPower-assisted recirculating ball
Fuel SystemElectronic fuel injection
Electrical12-volt system with alternator
InteriorLeather seats, power windows, climate control
AudioAM/FM stereo cassette player with speakers

Controls and Instrumentation

Dashboard includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights, and various control switches.

  1. Ignition switch: Located on steering column
  2. Gear selector: PRNDL pattern on center console
  3. Climate controls: Temperature, fan speed, air distribution
  4. Audio controls: Radio, cassette player, volume, tuning
  5. Lighting controls: Headlights, fog lights, interior lights
  6. Power window switches: Located on center console
  7. Cruise control: Steering column stalk

WARNING! Familiarize yourself with all controls before driving.

Operation Procedures

Starting, driving, and shutting down procedures for optimal performance.

  1. Starting: Insert key, press brake, shift to Park or Neutral, turn ignition
  2. Driving: Allow engine to warm up, use smooth acceleration
  3. Shifting: Use gear selector for appropriate driving conditions
  4. Parking: Apply parking brake, shift to Park, turn off ignition
  5. Top operation: Follow specific procedures for soft top retraction

CAUTION! Never shift to Park while vehicle is moving.

Technical Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

ServiceIntervalDescription
Oil Change7,500 milesReplace engine oil and filter
Spark Plugs30,000 milesReplace all spark plugs
Air Filter15,000 milesReplace engine air filter
Fuel Filter30,000 milesReplace fuel filter
Brake Fluid2 yearsReplace brake fluid
Coolant2 yearsReplace engine coolant
Transmission Fluid30,000 milesReplace automatic transmission fluid

Safety Systems

The 560SL features multiple safety systems for occupant protection.

  1. ABS brakes: Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking
  2. Seat belts: Three-point inertia reel belts for both seats
  3. Roll bar: Automatic pop-up roll bar for convertible protection
  4. Crush zones: Front and rear deformation zones
  5. Lighting: Halogen headlights with fog lights
  6. Mirrors: Heated exterior mirrors with defogger

IMPORTANT! Always wear seat belts and ensure proper mirror adjustment.

Top Operation

Operating procedures for the power soft top and removable hardtop.

  1. Soft top lowering: Unlock header, press switch, wait for complete retraction
  2. Soft top raising: Press switch, ensure proper locking
  3. Hardtop installation: Two-person operation recommended
  4. Hardtop removal: Release latches, lift carefully
  5. Storage: Use hardtop storage cart if available

WARNING! Do not operate soft top while driving. Ensure area is clear.

Driving Tips

Recommendations for optimal driving experience and fuel economy.

  1. Warm up engine briefly before driving
  2. Use smooth acceleration and braking
  3. Maintain proper tire pressure
  4. Use cruise control on highways
  5. Plan routes to avoid excessive idling
  6. Regular maintenance improves fuel economy

Care & Cleaning

Proper cleaning and care procedures to maintain vehicle appearance.

  1. Exterior washing: Use mild car wash soap, soft sponge
  2. Interior cleaning: Use leather cleaner for seats, mild detergent for carpets
  3. Top care: Use convertible top cleaner and protectant
  4. Chrome care: Use chrome polish for brightwork
  5. Glass cleaning: Use automotive glass cleaner

CAUTION! Avoid abrasive cleaners and high-pressure washers.

Warranty Information

1988 Mercedes-Benz 560SL includes limited warranty coverage. Contact authorized dealer for specific terms and conditions. Warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship for specified periods. Maintenance records must be kept for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, fuel, ignitionCheck battery charge, fuel level, spark plugs
Rough idleSpark plugs, fuel systemReplace spark plugs, check fuel injectors
Poor fuel economyTires, alignment, maintenanceCheck tire pressure, wheel alignment, air filter
Top not operatingSwitch, motor, hydraulicCheck switch operation, hydraulic fluid level
Brake warning lightFluid level, wear sensorsCheck brake fluid, inspect brake pads
OverheatingCoolant, thermostat, radiatorCheck coolant level, thermostat operation

Service: Contact authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for professional service.

Emergency: Roadside assistance available through Mercedes-Benz.

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