🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

M-Class

Model Variants:

ML320, ML430, ML55 AMG

Chassis Code:

W163

First Generation Years:

1998

Last Generation Years:

2005

Product Name:

Mercedes Benz ML320 ML430 ML55 M Class Service Repair Manual 1998-2005

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Mercedes-Benz owners seeking comprehensive service information

Value Proposition:

Provides professional-grade workshop manual content at a fraction of the cost of official dealer manuals, enabling significant savings on repair and maintenance.

Uniqueness:

Comprehensive A-Z coverage for all models and repairs within the specified years, detailed diagrams, and step-by-step instructions.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Models Covered:

Mercedes-Benz ML320, ML430, ML55 AMG (W163 chassis)

Production Years Covered:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Estimated Page Count:

Varies (typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive manuals)

Type:

Complete Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, combustion system, crankcase, crankshaft, pistons, cylinders, cylinder head/valves

Transmission Drivetrain:

Gearbox, clutch, transmission system, front wheel and steering system, rear wheel system

Chassis Suspension Brakes:

Chassis, suspension, braking system, wheels, tires

Electrical Electronics:

Electrical system, battery, charging system, ignition system, starter, lights, meters, switches, wiring diagrams

Body Exteriors:

Fenders, exhaust pipe, frame, body panels

Maintenance:

Periodic checks and adjustments, scheduled maintenance tasks

Repair:

All repair procedures from simple to complicated

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides and symptom analysis

Depth:

Factory-level technical information, comprehensive step-by-step instructions, exploded views, diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing

Printability:

Printable (individual pages or entire manual)

Binding:

Digital (PDF format, no physical binding)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Ml320 Engine:

3.2L M112 E32 V6 SOHC 18V

Ml320 Horsepower:

215 hp @ 5750 rpm

Ml320 Torque:

229 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Ml430 Engine:

4.3L M113 E43 V8 SOHC 24V

Ml430 Horsepower:

268 hp @ 5750 rpm

Ml430 Torque:

280 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Ml55 Engine:

5.4L M113 E55 V8 SOHC 24V (AMG-tuned)

Ml55 Horsepower:

342 hp @ 5500 rpm

Ml55 Torque:

376 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic (5G-TRONIC)

Optional Transmissions:

N/A (All models in this range used the 5G-TRONIC)

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (4MATIC)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Width:

Approx. 75.2 inches (1910 mm)

Height:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1790 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4500 - 4800 lbs (2040 - 2180 kg) depending on model

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for 1998-2001 models)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

Traction Control:

Standard (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)

Stability Control:

Standard (ESP - Electronic Stability Program)

Braking:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Airbags:

Front airbags, optional side airbags

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD stereo with optional CD changer, premium sound systems available (e.g., Bose).

Navigation:

Optional COMAND navigation system (later models).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Telephony:

Optional integrated cellular telephone system on some models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Approximately every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).

Major Service:

Recommended around 30,000, 60,000, and 100,000 miles, involving a more comprehensive inspection and fluid replacement.

Engine Oil Type:

Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5) or equivalent, check manual for exact specifications.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.10 automatic transmission fluid (ATF) or equivalent (e.g., Shell ATF 134).

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-48 or equivalent - typically a blue ethylene glycol based coolant with silicates).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Problems:

Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failure, intake manifold runner flap issues (M112/M113 engines), ignition coil failure, blower motor resistor failure, ABC suspension issues (if equipped), rust on body panels and frame, transmission solenoid issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Established luxury automotive manufacturer with a long history of engineering excellence and innovation.

W163 Introduction:

First generation of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, introduced in 1997 (for the 1998 model year) as the brand's first entry into the luxury SUV segment.

W163 Facelift:

Received a significant facelift for the 2002 model year, including updated styling, interior enhancements, and revised powertrains.

Manufacturing Location:

Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:

1999 MotorTrend Sport/Utility Vehicle of the Year for the ML320.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied by year and specific components; manual helps address common issues.