Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV
Key Selling Points:
Mercedes-Benz luxury, robust V8 engine, advanced 4MATIC AWD system, comfortable ride
Primary Competitors:
BMW X5 (E53), Lexus RX300, Land Rover Discovery Series II
Unique Features:
Unibody construction for SUV, pioneering luxury SUV segment
Engine:
4.3L V8 (M113), including lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, and performance tuning
Transmission:
5G-TRONIC (722.6) automatic transmission, including operation, diagnostics, and overhaul
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (4MATIC) system, including differentials, drive shafts, and transfer case
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, shocks, control arms, and springs
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, including ABS, EBD, brake pads, rotors, calipers, and fluid specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, including steering rack, pump, and fluid
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, including battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuse box, relays, and body control modules
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, including climate control operation and component service
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, and exterior components
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and diagnostic procedures
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Engine component repair, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic trees and symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Diagnostics:
Component testing, scan tool usage, wiring schematic interpretation
Torque Specifications:
Torque values for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not Rated (NHTSA ratings for this era are less standardized)
IIHS Side Impact:
Not Rated
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Electronic Traction Control System (ETS)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) (Introduced on later models, check specific VIN)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil)
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 40,000 miles (recommended)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, meeting MB 229.5 Specification
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 Quarts (8.0 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G48 / BASF Glysantin) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (e.g., MB 331.0 Specification)
Common Problems:
Mass airflow sensor (MAF) failure, ignition coil failure, evaporator core leaks (HVAC), front suspension components (ball joints, bushings), catalytic converter issues, rust on body panels (especially around wheel wells and rear hatch)
Troubleshooting Tips:
Regularly check for oil leaks, listen for suspension noises, and monitor engine performance for signs of MAF or ignition issues.
