Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Target Audience:
Families seeking luxury, utility, and off-road capability
Key Competitors 2003:
BMW X5, Lexus RX 330, Audi allroad quattro, Acura MDX, Volvo XC90
Luxury Appointments:
Premium interior materials, advanced comfort features
Powertrain Options:
Available V6 and V8 engines, standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive (on some models)
Off Road Capability:
Robust chassis, advanced traction control systems, optional off-road packages
Engine Systems:
Engine compartment overview, engine oil, fuel system, air filter(s), cooling system, lubrication, specifications, maintenance
Electrical Systems:
Battery, lights, instrument cluster, infotainment systems, driver controls, locks and security
Chassis Systems:
Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Body And Interior:
Climate controls, seating, safety restraints, door locks, security, cleaning
Maintenance:
Preventative maintenance, scheduled service intervals, fluid checks and refills, filter replacements, basic inspections
Repair Information:
Step-by-step repair instructions for various components, troubleshooting procedures
Technical Specifications:
Refill capacities, lubricant specifications, part numbers (for service items), tire pressure, wheel torque
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Troubleshooting common issues, identifying symptoms and potential causes
Repair Complexity:
Covers basic to intermediate DIY repairs, suitable for home mechanics and professional technicians
Compatibility:
Windows, Linux, Mac, Tablets, Smartphones (requires PDF reader)
Printability:
Printable from any computer and printer
Illustration Quality:
Illustrated with step-by-step instructions, best quality
Physical Format:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Physical Format:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Code:
M112 E37 (for ML350)
Engine Type:
3.7L V6 SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 84.0 mm
Horsepower:
232 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-30 or equivalent
Engine Oil Capacity:
7.5 quarts (7.1 liters) with filter
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Test:
Good
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard
Traction Control:
Standard
Antilock Braking System:
Standard
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side airbags, optional side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system with AM/FM radio, CD player, and optional navigation system.
Climate Controls:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings and pollen filter.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park assist sensors.
Universal Garage Door Opener:
Optional integrated system.
Tele Aid:
Optional telematics system for emergency assistance and vehicle location.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent) - blue color
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can lead to stalling or no-start conditions.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Can cause rough idling, poor acceleration, and check engine lights.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Faulty purge valve or charcoal canister can trigger emissions-related check engine lights.
Heater Control Valve:
Leaking or malfunctioning valve can affect HVAC performance.
Window Regulator Failure:
Common issue where power windows stop working or operate erratically.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Pioneer in automotive engineering, renowned for luxury, safety, and performance since the late 19th century.
M Class Introduction:
First generation (W163) introduced in 1997 as Mercedes-Benz's entry into the luxury SUV market.
W163 Facelift:
Received a significant facelift for the 2002 model year, including updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements. The 2003 ML350 was part of this updated generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
Production Years:
1997-2005 (W163 generation)
