Dr. SLK

11/05/2026

26.05.11 /// Dr. SLK Tech Support & New Offering:
FUEL TANK REBUILD
For: SLK 200/230 R170 1996 - 2004

In past few years, I’ve observed and repaired many SLK 230 (pre-facelift models) suffer from issues caused by a faulty gas tank due to age and use, and by ethanol blended fuels.

The common symptoms are leaking fuel underneath (charcoal canister overfill). Or constantly failing fuel pump that is being clogged by “mud-like” dirt… naturally these symptoms will cause your car to stall and leave you stranded. If this is your case, the fuel tank needs to be rebuilt.

The fuel tank rebuild includes
- separating the fuel tank from the car… everything in the trunk area has to be removed.
- cut open a “port hole” approximately 6” square on 3 sides
- removal of “swirl pot” plastic container for cleaning, tank strainer and all plastic fuel tubes
- general cleaning of entire tank (laundry soad & water) – set to dry
- once everything is clean, install switrl pot, new submersible type fuel hoses and tank strainer… warning: do not use ordinary fuel hoses inside the tank – they will disintegrate under constant submersion in fuel.
- final step is welding the port hole shut – topped off with lead soldering for the perfect seal
- inspect the inside of the tank for possible burn by using a endoscope, passing through the fuel level sensor port hole. If tank passes the endoscope test, then re-assemble to car.

The effects are positive for the long term life of the entire fuel system (fuel pump, fuel hoses, clamps, fuel filter and injectors)… THERE’S NOTHING MORE IMPORTANT THAN CLEAN UNADULTERATED FUEL.

Price of Fuel tank rebuild = P18,000.00, all-in

For more details, please contact:
Francis Godinez
09171223726

30/09/2025

Dr. SLK’s response to the FAQ:
“What are the tire sizes for my SLK?”

As a long-time advocate for practical, owner-friendly maintenance, I often receive the same question from fellow SLK drivers:

“What are the correct recommended tire sizes for my SLK”

To simplify things, I’ve attached a picture guide outlining the sizes of the mag wheels, tires and the offset, as the car came from the factory.

Choosing the correct tire and wheel sizes is essential not only for aesthetics but also for safety, handling, and ride comfort. Following the factory specs as per attached picture guide are the best.

Custom upgrades may include 18-inch setups like 235/40 R18 front and 265/35 R18 rear, but these require careful attention to offset and clearance. Consultation for these upgrades is better before buying.

Hope this info helps.

29/09/2025

Dr. SLK's response to the FAQ:
“WHAT KIND OF OIL SHOULD I USE FOR MY SLK?”

As a long-time advocate for practical, owner-friendly maintenance, I often receive the same question from fellow SLK drivers:
“What kind of oil should I use for my SLK?”

To simplify things, I’ve prepared this guide outlining 4 reliable oil options—tailored to different driving styles, budgets, and SLK model variants. Whether you're running a high-mileage SLK 230 or a performance-tuned SLK 350, this list should help you make an informed, cost-effective choice.

All recommendations are based on real-world experience, factory specs, and availability from trusted fuel stations across the Philippines.

Engine Oil Options for Mercedes-Benz SLK cars
🔧 1. 15W-40 Mineral Oil (only for SLK 230 R170)
• Budget-friendly
• Strong detergent properties—great for older or dirty engines
• Best for warm climates and short trips
• 💰 Price: ~₱300/liter
• ⏱️ Change interval: every 5,000 km or 6 months

🛠️ 2. 10W-40 Semi-Synthetic Oil (SLK 230 R170 or SLK 200 R171/R172)
• Balanced protection and price
• Factory-spec (MB 229.3)
• Suitable for mixed driving and moderate climates
• 💰 Price: ~₱465/liter
• ⏱️ Change interval: every 7,000–8,000 km or 1-year

⚙️ 3. 5W-40 or 0w-40 Fully Synthetic Oil (All SLK models)
• High-performance lubrication
• Factory-spec (MB 229.5)
• Ideal for long drives, spirited use, and cooler starts
• 💰 Price: ~₱650/liter
• ⏱️ Change interval: every 10,000 km or 1-year

🛢️ All grades are available at trusted fuel stations like Shell, Petron, Caltex, and Total. Just check for API SN/CF or ACEA A3/B4 ratings on the label.

🛡️ Optional Premium:
Some owners may prefer using the original Mercedes-Benz brand oil for peace of mind:
• MB 229.5 spec 5W-40
• 💰 Price: ~₱1,350/liter

🛢️ Oil Capacity:
• M111 (SLK 230 R170) & M271 (SLK 200 R171 or R172) :
5.5 Liters including filter
• M112 (SLK 320) & M272 (SLK 350 R171 or R172) :
7.75 Liters including filter

HAPPY OIL MAINTENANCE!!
From: Dr. SLK

Send a message to learn more

13/06/2025

Dr. SLK Tech Support & New Offering:
1996 - 2004 MERCEDES SLK R170
HEADLINER &/or “Ceiling”

Many SLKs suffer from faulty headliners… There are cases (especially on the 2000 – 2004 models) where the rear section breaks the plastic Rail (holder) and bends causing the headliner to sag at the rear

In the attached parts diagram, item number 2, called “Rail, Headliner Front” is the part that always breaks to cause the headliner to sag in the rear… This part is no longer available brand new at Mercedes, so the only option is to source used ones which are also very old and brittle. So I thought of doing a creative repair at a low cost.

Parts Needed: 5 round plastic clips found in the trunk area… I installed these 5-clips in the hole where the original Rail was clipped to… some minor grinding/drilling is needed to enlarge the hole from 6mm to 8mm… And then I drilled 8mm holes into the headliner to insert the clips… I also used rugby to firmly keep the headliner in place. I intend to paint the clips in the near future.

Let me know if you like this remedy.
Price: P2,500.00 parts & labor included

For more details, contact:
Francis Godinez
09171223726

24/12/2024

19/09/2024

24.09.19 /// Dr. SLK Tech Support & New Offering:
SPORT EXHAUST UPGRADE / DELETE CAT (CATALYTIC CONVERTER)
For: SLK 200/230 R170 1996 - 2004

Many SLK 200/230 suffer from an old/broken down catalytic converter due to age and use. The symptons usually are a loud rattle underneath the drivers chair, or a clogged exhaust causing engine hesitation or an extreme “no start” condition… If this is your case, the catalytic converter has come apart internally, even if the outside still looks good!! The honeycomb internals are busted.

The best remedy is to upgrade! Remove that old catalytic converter and install a new Stainless Steel Sport tuned resonator designed by Dr. SLK... This fits exactly in the cavity where the old catalytic converter was. The thickness is exact so that it doesn't hang low to rub against humps (walang sayad)...

You can have this sport resonator installed at any nearby exhaust shop.

The effects are positive with increased horsepower and fuel savings and of course, removal of all the rattling noises from the old catalytic converter.

Price of Stainless Steel Sport tuned resonator without installation = P5,500.00

For more details, please contact:
Francis Godinez
09171223726

06/01/2024

Dr. SLK Tech Support & New Offering:
RESTORING ORIGINAL HEADLIGHTS AND FOG LIGHTS
1996 to 2003 Mercedes Benz SLK R170

After more than 20 years service, the headlights and fog lights have darkened in appearance due to dirt… time has come to clean them up and give the car a fresh look!

Another issue with the original headlights is the electrical wire insulations inside the headlight crumble or flake off which can occasionally cause shorting and bust fuses.

I attached a couple of pictures which displays the before and after appearance of the lights and also shows the wires that have been re-insulated. The fuses in the headlight switch should also be removed and cleaned.

Parts like bulbs & fuses may be replaced depending on condition. Only “TEK” (time, effort and knowledge) is needed to accomplish this mission.

TEK = P8,000/set – 2 headlights plus 2 fog lights. There may be additional charges depending on the issues encountered.

For more info & details, please contact:
Francis Godinez
09171223726

19/09/2023

Dr. SLK Tech Support & New Offering:
AIRCON PARTS FOR
1996 - 2004 MERCEDES KOMPRESSOR SLK230 SLK200 R170

Many SLK R170 owners experience an AIRCON break down for various reasons. Because the surplus parts are already getting too old (mostly above 20years old), I’ve opted to find reliable supply in China who offered much lower prices for BRAND NEW PARTS as compared to European made products. I’ve developed a new working relationship with a reliable aircon parts factory in China.
Here are some of the aircon parts newly arrived from China:

- AIRCON COMPRESSOR – part w/picture listed.
MB Part number: A0002302011/A0002342911 / Compressor model: 7SBU16C Price: P10,000.00

- COMPRESSOR MAGNET CLUTCH KIT - Many AC compressor suffer from a faulty magnet clutch. The magnet clutch can be replaced, if the compressor is still good. However, sometimes the whole compressor needs replacement. The parts w/pictures are listed below.
MB Part Number: 0002302128 Price: P2,500per set includes magnet & pulley.

- FILTER DRYER & EXPANSION VALVE - When replacing an aircon compressor, it is highly advised to also replace the filter/dryer & the expansion valve. The parts w/pictures are listed below.
-- Filter Dryer – MB Part Number A1708300083 Price: P1,800.00
--Expansion valve, 2-types, MB Part Number 2028300184 or A9018300084, Price P800.00

- AC BLOWER SPEED CONTROL RESISTOR - The AC blower suffers occasionally from a faulty Speed control resistor which requires replacement. Symptoms of a faulty AC Blower resistor are blower speed does not change, or blower does not shut down despite ignition off and other similar symptons. Parts w/pictures listed below.
MB Part number A2108700210, Price P2,000.00

- AC SENSORS - There are sensors which control the operation of the compressor.
- PRESSURE SENSOR - There is a pressure sensor that de-activates the aircon compressor when Freon pressure is too low. The compressor will re-activate once you charge the system with Freon. However, there are times, despite having a full charge of Freon, the compressor disengages caused by a faulty pressure sensor. In this case, the sensor needs replacement. Parts w/picture listed. MB part number 1408300072, Price P800.00
- EVAPORATOR SENSOR – the evaporator sensor measures the coldness of air entering the cabin… when the air gets too cold, the sensor will cause the aircon compressor to disengage. However, there are times, despite the air not being cold, the compressor continues to be disengaged. In this case the evaporator sensor needs replacement. Parts w/picture listed.
MB Part number 2108300772 Price P800.00

- CABIN AIR FILTER - The cabin air filter is recommended to be replaced when servicing the aircon. Always remember the air you breathe inside the car cabin is filtered through the cabin air filter. If the filter is dirty, then you may be breathing dirty air too!! Parts w/picture listed.
MB part number 2028300018 Price: P1,000.00

For more details, contact:
Francis Godinez 09171223726

03/09/2023

Dr. SLK Tech Support & New Offering:
1996 - 2004 MERCEDES KOMPRESSOR SLK230 SLK320 R170 TYPE, ALTERNATOR 90AMP, part # 0091547602

Many SLK R170 owners experience an alternator break down caused by an aged-busted electronic rectifier coupled with extremely noisy bearings. This has become a common issue. When approaching the electrical shops they are billing horrendous amounts for a rebuild, to the tune of P15k. Although I’ve sold several good surplus alternators, I have fears that the surplus parts are getting too old (above 20years old), and this is why I opted to find reliable sources in China. I’ve developed a new working relationship with an alternator factory in China.

Here is an offer for a BRAND NEW ALTERNATOR. Simply bolt on & go!! “Plug & Play”!!
Brand: JACK KING /// Made in China
Prices:
Alternator: P8,000.00
Installation Labor : P2,000.00.

For more details, contact:
Francis Godinez 09171223726

09/05/2022

Dr. SLK New Offering:
Battery Charger Maintenance Tender Fully Automatic
Fits all types of cars or motorcycles w/ 12v Lead Acid Battery

I always learn from many SLK owners their comments/complaints about their car battery dying out (low batt) after not using the car for about 2-3weeks. Sometimes due to vacation trips, we all use our SLKs sparingly like probably once a week or even once a month and the one day you are ready to enjoy your SLK, the battery is dead and the car won’t start. Frustrating, right??!!

The SLK has systems that operate 24/7 needing battery power. For example the car clock, computers, etc. !! Operating these creates a constant tiny drain on the battery which if left unattended, will cause the battery to discharge after a few weeks.

Here’s an inexpensive solution to that problem. Simply connect this fully automatic battery maintenance device to your car battery. There is nothing to disconnect and you can leave it on indefinitely, worry-free. However, for purposes of extending the life of this device and your car battery, I recommend to connect this charger only once a week. Once the device indicates your car battery to be fully charged, simply disconnect it and reconnect this device after 5-7days.

With the car battery constantly charged, you will no longer be frustrated by a discharged battery. Enjoy your car!!

New Price: P800.00 reduced from original P1,200 plus shipping.

For more details, contact:
Francis Godinez
09171223726

09/05/2022

Dr. SLK Tech Support & New Offering:
1996 to 2004 Mercedes Benz SLK230/200/320 SLK55 AMG grilles

Get rid of that old, cracked up, brittle grille you have!! And, Give your car that fresh new look with a well deserved brand new grille!

These grilles come in two colors:
- Silver finish w/chrome trimmings
- Black w/chrome trimmings

Available is the 3-fin grille and 2-fin grille as per pictures attached.

Same price any model or color = P8,000.00 w/free installation. This is a super price reduction from previous price of P13,500.00

For more details, Please contact:
Francis Godinez
09171223726