Market Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive technicians.
Competitors 1999:
BMW X5 (E53), Lexus RX300, Acura SLX, Land Rover Discovery Series II.
Unique Selling Points:
Premium brand cachet, robust M112 V6 engine, sophisticated interior, and Mercedes-Benz's established engineering reputation.
Vehicle Highlights:
Comfortable ride, refined interior, capable on-road handling for an SUV, available permanent all-wheel drive (4MATIC).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling cost-effective maintenance and troubleshooting, ensuring optimal vehicle performance and longevity.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Diagnostic Procedures, Maintenance Schedules, Troubleshooting Guides, Wiring Diagrams
Page Count:
Extensive (estimated 1000+ pages in digital format)
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul procedures, component specifications, timing, lubrication, cooling system diagnostics and repair.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (MFI), ignition system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, O2 sensors), OBD-II diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, transfer case, driveshafts, U-joints, axle shafts, seals, and bearings.
Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission (722.6 '5G-TRONIC'), fluid service, internal component diagnosis, torque converter, electronic control module (ETC).
Suspension Front:
Independent front suspension, MacPherson struts, coil springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel bearings.
Suspension Rear:
Multi-link rear suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, power steering pump, tie rods, steering linkage, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starter, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring harnesses, diagnostic connectors.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, seals, interior trim, underbody protection, frame structure.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant types and service procedures.
Comfort And Convenience:
Power windows, power locks, power seats, sunroof, cruise control, central locking system.
Basic Maintenance:
Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms, fault code interpretation, component testing procedures.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II scanning and interpretation, specific diagnostic tests for engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including component locations and connector pinouts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and component-level repair.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4-star (Driver), 4-star (Passenger)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable
Active Safety Features:
All-Wheel Drive (4MATIC), ABS, Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil quality used).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles (check manual for specific interval).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (typically iridium-tipped plugs).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ or higher, MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 specification (e.g., SAE 5W-40 or 0W-40).
Engine Oil Capacity:
7.7 Quarts (7.3 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Specification:
MB Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Problems Engine:
Minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil cooler seals, potential for timing chain tensioner wear over high mileage.
Common Problems Transmission:
Transmission conductor plate issues leading to shifting problems, potential for torque converter seal leaks.
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, front sway bar links, and rear shock absorbers leading to noise or uneven tire wear.
Common Problems HVAC:
Blend door actuator failures causing HVAC temperature control issues, AC refrigerant leaks.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, door lock actuator failures, MAF sensor issues, crank position sensor failure.