🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

ML430

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

W163

Engine Code:

M113.942

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium mid-size luxury SUV, offering a blend of Mercedes-Benz refinement with SUV utility.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the BMW X5 (E53), Lexus RX (XU10), and Audi allroad. Differentiated by its V8 engine option and the brand's established reputation for luxury and engineering.

Key Features:

Powerful V8 engine, standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive, luxurious interior appointments, advanced safety features for its era, comfortable ride quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting, Maintenance Schedules, Specifications

Page Count:

Extensive (Software format, content is comprehensive and searchable)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital, likely PDF or proprietary executable with searchable content)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (M113 V8), Engine Fuel System (MPI), Engine Ignition System, Engine Cooling System, Engine Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (5G-TRONIC Automatic), Transfer Case, Drive Axles, Suspension (Front Independent, Rear Independent), Steering System (Hydraulic Power Steering), Brake System (ABS, EBD, BAS), Electrical System (12V System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Control Modules), HVAC System (Automatic Climate Control), Fuel Tank and Lines, Emissions Control System, Safety Systems (SRS Airbag), Body and Chassis Components, Interior Trim and Upholstery, Exterior Trim and Body Panels, Wheels and Tires.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Fluid Checks), Component Removal and Installation (Engine, Transmission, Suspension Arms, Brake Calipers, Alternator, Starter), Diagnostic Procedures (OBD-II Scan, Fault Code Interpretation), Troubleshooting Guides for Common Issues, Electrical System Diagnosis, HVAC System Servicing, Brake System Bleeding and Repair, Suspension Alignment Specifications, Steering System Adjustment, Fuel System Cleaning and Testing, Emission System Checks, SRS System Safety Precautions and Repair, Body Panel Repair and Adjustment, Interior Component Replacement.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complex diagnostic and repair procedures, including detailed specifications, torque values, wiring diagrams, and exploded views for complete overhaul.

Diagnostic Tools:

Covers procedures for using OBD-II scanners, Mercedes-Benz proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS), and multimeter testing for electrical diagnosis.

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Systematic, symptom-based troubleshooting trees and flowcharts.

Specifications Type:

Torque values, clearances, pressures, electrical resistance, fluid capacities, alignment data, diagnostic parameters.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (Searchable, potentially with interactive diagrams)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, quality dependent on display device)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Searchability:

High (Software typically allows for keyword searches across the entire manual)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.3L V8 (M113.942)

Horsepower:

275 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

284 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Design:

SOHC 32-valve V8, Aluminum Block and Cylinder Heads

Bore X Stroke:

92.2 mm x 82.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Engine Management System:

ME 2.8 engine control module (ECM)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic (5G-TRONIC, 722.6 series)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for ML430

Transmission Features:

Electronic control, Adaptive shift programs, Torque converter lock-up clutch.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 (or equivalent approved fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

111.0 inches (2819 mm)

Length:

185.5 inches (4712 mm)

Width:

71.9 inches (1826 mm)

Height:

67.0 inches (1702 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4600 lbs (2087 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 5995 lbs (2724 kg)

Cargo Volume:

32.1 cu ft (behind rear seats)

Standard Wheel Size:

17 x 7.5 inches

Standard Tire Size:

255/60R17

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 112 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:

Good (for comparable vehicles of the era)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), All-Season Traction Control (ASR), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), All-Wheel Drive (4MATIC).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, Side-impact airbags (front), Pretensioner seatbelts, Crumple zones, Roll-over protection.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, Cassette player, CD player, AM/FM radio, Premium audio system (e.g., Bose).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, Rain-sensing wipers (optional), Parking sensors (optional).

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; typically featured a cellular-based telematics system (TeleAid) if equipped.

Lighting Options:

Halogen headlights, Optional Xenon HID headlights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (consult manual for specific interval based on driving conditions)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 100,000 miles (typically iridium-tipped)

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic (MB 229.5 or 229.3)

Coolant Specification:

Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0, typically blue or green)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Plus (e.g., MB 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., MB 236.3)

Known Issues:

Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failures, Crankshaft position sensor issues, Ignition coil failures, EGR valve issues, SRS system warning lights, Window regulator failures, Transmission conductor plate problems, Suspension component wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), Rust on body panels (especially around wheel wells and rocker panels), Headlight condensation.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 quarts (with filter)

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 10.5 quarts

Oil Filter Part Number:

e.g., Mann-Filter HU 718/5 y, Mahle OX 104/1D (verify with specific vehicle VIN)

Air Filter Part Number:

e.g., Mann-Filter C 34251, Mahle LX 712 (verify with specific vehicle VIN)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, is renowned for luxury vehicles, advanced engineering, and pioneering automotive safety and technology.

Model Evolution:

The W163 M-Class was Mercedes-Benz's first foray into the SUV segment, launched in 1997. The ML430, introduced for the 2000 model year, represented a significant performance upgrade with its V8 engine.

Production Years:

ML430 produced from 2000-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA (for North American market)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

As a model, the W163 M-Class received various accolades and criticisms during its production run, often praised for its comfort and V8 performance but sometimes critiqued for handling and interior build quality compared to rivals. Specific awards for the ML430 are less common than for the overall model line.