Introduction
This manual is a factory reprint of the original owner's manual for the 1974, 1975, and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL and 450 SLC models. It provides essential information for the operation, maintenance, and care of your vehicle.
It is designed to help you understand the features and functions of your Mercedes-Benz, ensuring safe and efficient use. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your vehicle.
Image: Front cover of the owner's manual for Mercedes-Benz 450 SL and 450 SLC models. The cover is blue and white, featuring the Mercedes-Benz star logo and the text "Owner's Manual".
Vehicle Operation
This section details the fundamental aspects of operating your Mercedes-Benz 450 SL or 450 SLC.
Keys and Doors
- Keys: Your vehicle is supplied with a master key and a supplementary key.
- Locking and Unlocking: Instructions for using the master lock system to secure and access your vehicle.
Seats and Safety Belts
- Front Seat Adjustment: Guidance on adjusting the front seats for optimal driving position and comfort.
- Safety Headrest: Proper adjustment of headrests for occupant safety.
- Safety Belts: Instructions for fastening and adjusting safety belts.
Windows and Instruments
- Electric Window Lifters: Operation of the power windows.
- Instrument Cluster: Overview of the speedometer, tachometer, clock, indicator lights, and steering lock light switch.
- Combination Switch: Functions of the multi-purpose combination switch.
Image: An open page of the owner's manual, displaying the title "Mercedes-Benz 450 SL 450 SLC" and "Owner's Manual" with the Mercedes-Benz logo. This page is typically found at the beginning of the manual.
Driving and Controls
This section covers the procedures for starting, driving, and stopping your vehicle, along with explanations of various controls.
Starting and Driving
- Hood: Instructions for opening and closing the engine hood.
- Parking Brake: Proper use of the parking brake.
- Regular Inspections: Pre-drive checks and routine inspections.
- Starting and Turning Off the Engine: Step-by-step guide for engine ignition and shutdown.
- Starting and Shifting Gears: Manual and automatic transmission operation.
- Safe Driving, Braking: Techniques for safe driving and effective braking.
Fuel and Indicators
- Fuel Consumption: Information on fuel efficiency.
- Engine Oil Consumption: Monitoring engine oil levels.
- Brake Warning Light, Charge Indicator: Understanding dashboard warning lights.
- Oil Pressure Gauge, Temperature Gauge, Tachometer, Emission Control: Interpreting instrument readings.
- Cruise Control: Operation of the cruise control system.
Special Operating Conditions
- The First 1,000 Miles: Recommendations for the initial break-in period.
- Traveling Abroad: Considerations for driving in different countries.
- Winter Driving: Tips for operating the vehicle in cold weather conditions.
Image: An open page of the owner's manual, displaying the introductory text on the right-hand side. The text begins with "You have chosen to drive a MERCEDES-BENZ..." and discusses the care taken in construction and the importance of reading the manual.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your Mercedes-Benz. This section outlines recommended service procedures and general care tips.
Mercedes-Benz Maintenance System
- Severe Operating Conditions: Adjustments to maintenance schedules for demanding use.
- Engine Oil Change and Oil Filter Service: Procedures and intervals for oil and filter replacement.
- Automatic Transmission - Fluid Change and Filter Change: Maintenance for the automatic transmission system.
- Cleaning and Care of the Vehicle: Recommendations for exterior and interior cleaning.
- Jobs related to Care, Care Products: Specific tasks and recommended products for vehicle care.
- Roadster Top: Care and operation of the convertible top.
Practical Hints
- Ashtrays, Vehicle Tool Kit, Rear Seat Cushion: Location and use of these components.
- Wheels, Tires, Changing Wheels: Information on tire pressure, rotation, and changing a flat tire.
- Checking Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants: How to check and replenish essential fluids.
- Engine Oil Level, Coolant Level, Automatic Transmission Fluid Level: Detailed instructions for fluid checks.
Image: An open page of the owner's manual displaying the "Contents" section. The left column lists "Vehicle Operation" topics such as Keys, Doors, Seats, Windows, and Instruments. The right column lists "Driving" topics like Hood, Parking Brake, and Starting and Turning off the Engine.
Troubleshooting and Emergency Operation
This section provides guidance on common issues and emergency procedures.
Electrical System
- Replacing Bulbs: Instructions for replacing various light bulbs.
- Fuses, Electric Sliding Roof: Information on fuse box locations and troubleshooting the electric sliding roof.
Emergency Procedures
- Emergency Operation: Steps to take in various emergency situations.
- Emergency-starting and Towing the Vehicle: Procedures for jump-starting and safely towing your Mercedes-Benz.
Image: An open page of the owner's manual, continuing the "Contents" section. This page lists "Vehicle Care" topics such as Maintenance System and Cleaning, "Practical Hints" like Ashtrays and Wheels, and "Technical Data" including Identification Plates and Vehicle Data Cards.
Specifications and Technical Data
This section provides important technical specifications and data for your vehicle.
Technical Data, Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants
- Identification Plates: Location and details of vehicle identification plates.
- Vehicle Data Cards: Explanation of vehicle data cards.
- Technical Data: Comprehensive technical specifications of the 450 SL/SLC models.
- Fuels, Coolants, Lubricants, etc.: Recommended types and capacities for all fluids.
- Capacities: Volume capacities for fuel tank, engine oil, coolant, etc.
- Engine Oils, Fuels: Specific grades and types of engine oils and fuels to use.
- Coolants, Treating Agents: Recommended coolants and additives.
- Antifreeze: Information on antifreeze requirements.
Service Literature
Information regarding additional service manuals and literature available for your vehicle.
Image: The back cover of the owner's manual. It features a blue and white design, similar to the front, and includes production numbers and the manufacturer's information: "Daimler-Benz AG Stuttgart-Untertuerkheim Zentralkundendienst".
Important Notes
This manual is a factory reprint and is spiral bound. It may not be suitable for show cars due to its nature as a reproduction. It is intended for informational and operational guidance.
For specific details on optional equipment or variations in your vehicle, please refer to the original documentation or consult a qualified Mercedes-Benz service center.
