Positioning:
Premium off-road SUV with legendary durability and capability, catering to a niche market seeking robust engineering and off-road prowess.
Competitors:
Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, Jeep Wrangler (though often positioned more luxuriously than direct competitors).
Vehicle Attributes:
Body-on-frame construction, three independently locking differentials, permanent four-wheel drive, robust chassis, exceptional off-road articulation and capability, luxury interior appointments (for its class).
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving money, understanding their vehicle better, and ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Technical Advantage:
Provides dealer-level diagnostic and repair information, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in troubleshooting and fixing issues.
Engine Variants Covered:
M112 (E32) 3.2L V6, M113 (E43) 4.3L V8, OM602 (DE 29 LA) 2.9L Inline-5 Turbo Diesel, OM606 (DE 30 LA) 3.0L Inline-6 Turbo Diesel
Transmission Variants Covered:
4-speed automatic (722.6), 5-speed automatic (722.6), 5-speed manual
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (actual count not specified, but described as complete A-Z)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system, intake system, emissions control, starting and charging system, ignition system, automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case, drive shafts, differentials, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (hydraulic power steering), wheels, tires, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), parking brake
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, glass, mirrors, wipers, washers, locks, climate control (air conditioning), instrumentation, meters, audio system
Electrical:
Wiring schematics, multiplex/CAN communication, lighting, power windows, power seats, horn, cruise control, supplementary restraint system (SRS), engine immobilizer, battery, alternator, starter motor
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacement, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical system repairs, body panel repair
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical system parameters, diagnostic values
Depth:
Comprehensive A-Z coverage, suitable for dealership technicians, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and chassis component overhauls.
Searchability:
Searchable text within PDF
Printability:
Fully printable, allowing users to print specific pages or sections.
Image Scaling:
Images and diagrams can be blown up for enlarged viewing and printing.
Binding:
Digital (PDF) - no physical binding
Digital Format:
Designed to be printed on standard paper, eliminating the need for specialized paper.
Operating Systems:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible.
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free online downloads).
Engine Option 1:
M112 E32: 3.2L SOHC V6
Engine Option 2:
M113 E43: 4.3L SOHC V8
Diesel Engine Option 1:
OM602 DE 29 LA: 2.9L SOHC Inline-5 Turbocharged Diesel
Diesel Engine Option 2:
OM606 DE 30 LA: 3.0L SOHC Inline-6 Turbocharged Diesel
Horsepower M112:
Approx. 215 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque M112:
Approx. 221 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Horsepower M113:
Approx. 275 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque M113:
Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Horsepower Om602:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4600 rpm
Torque Om602:
Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for gasoline engines, Bosch inline injection pump for diesel engines.
Cylinder Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy (M112, M113), Cast Iron (OM602, OM606)
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy (M112, M113), Aluminum Alloy (OM602, OM606)
Transmission Type:
5-speed automatic (722.6 'NAG1') on most models, with 4-speed automatic (722.4) on some older W463 variants and a 5-speed manual available on select models.
Transmission Options:
5-speed manual transmission (less common).
Transfer Case:
Two-speed transfer case with lockable center differential and lockable front/rear differentials (standard equipment).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.14 approved fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF 134).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 specification, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (specific MB recommendation should be consulted in manual).
Wheelbase Short:
Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 in)
Wheelbase Long:
Approx. 2850 mm (112.2 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 205 mm (8.1 in) to 210 mm (8.3 in) depending on tires and suspension.
Curb Weight Approx:
Approx. 2100 - 2400 kg (4630 - 5291 lbs) depending on configuration.
Towing Capacity Approx:
Up to 3500 kg (7716 lbs) on approved models.
Crash Test Results:
While specific 2000 model year NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings might be scarce or not directly comparable to modern standards, the W463 chassis is known for its robust construction and inherent safety due to its solid build.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on some models (ASR - Acceleration Skid Control).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced body structure and A-pillars contributing to rollover resistance.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette or CD player with optional premium sound system. Aux input or Bluetooth connectivity not standard for this era.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Parking Assistance:
No factory parking sensors or backup cameras for this model year.
Telematics:
Limited to basic vehicle functions, no integrated navigation or smartphone connectivity beyond aftermarket solutions.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power locks, power adjustable mirrors, heated front seats (optional/standard depending on trim).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific mileage/time recommendations.
Transmission Service:
Automatic transmission fluid and filter change typically recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles. Manual transmission fluid change less frequent, often 60,000-100,000 miles. Consult manual.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years regardless of mileage to prevent moisture absorption.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, ACEA A3/B4, viscosity grade typically 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-30 depending on climate. Refer to owner's manual or MB specifications (e.g., MB-Approval 229.3 or 229.5).
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz specified coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Common Wear Items:
Differential seals, hub bearings, window regulators, tailgate hinges, blower motor resistor, various suspension bushings (control arms, sway bar links), fuel pump, ignition coils (V6/V8 models).
Diesel Specific:
Glow plug issues, injector pump seals, turbocharger wear on older OM602 engines.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing robust and durable vehicles, particularly for military and off-road applications, establishing a reputation for engineering excellence.
W463 Introduction:
The W463 generation was introduced in 1989 as a significant modernization of the original G-Wagen (W460/W461), featuring more refined styling, independent front suspension (on some models), and improved interior comfort while retaining its core off-road capabilities.
Manufacturing Location:
Graz, Austria (produced by Magna Steyr under contract for Mercedes-Benz).
Production Span:
The W463 platform was produced from 1989 through 2018, with the 2000 model year representing a mid-cycle evolution of this highly successful design.
Off Road Accolades:
Consistently recognized for its exceptional off-road capability and durability by automotive publications and off-road enthusiasts worldwide. Often cited as one of the most capable production off-road vehicles ever made.
Reliability Perception:
While generally considered robust, its complexity and German engineering can lead to higher maintenance costs. Reliability is often perceived as good when properly maintained.
Factory Standards:
Manufactured to Mercedes-Benz's stringent quality and engineering standards.
