Market Position:
The 2004 Mercedes-Benz G500 is positioned as a premium, luxury, off-road capable SUV, often referred to as a 'G-Wagen' or 'G-Class'. It blends robust engineering with high-end comfort and luxury appointments.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other high-end luxury SUVs like the Land Rover Range Rover, Lexus LX, and Cadillac Escalade, while offering a distinct European luxury and superior off-road capability.
Key Features:
Iconic boxy styling, permanent all-wheel drive, three lockable differentials, powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior, exceptional off-road prowess, sophisticated driving dynamics for its class.
Coverage Areas:
Complete mechanical, electrical, body, and chassis repair for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz G500.
Page Count:
Extensive (software, typically equivalent to 1000+ printed pages)
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (likely PDF-based or proprietary viewer)
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain (4WD, differentials), Transmission (Automatic), Brakes (ABS, ESP), Steering, Suspension, Electrical System, Climate Control, Body & Chassis, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, complete disassembly and reassembly of major components, electrical system diagnosis and repair, body panel replacement, chassis lubrication, fluid changes, component replacement, performance tuning adjustments.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostic and repair procedures, including component-level troubleshooting and specifications for rebuilds.
Displacement:
4966 cc (5.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 84.0 mm
Horsepower:
292 hp @ 5500 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
335 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (EIS)
Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostatically controlled fan.
Emission Control:
Secondary Air Injection System, Catalytic Converters, EGR (where applicable).
Standard Transmission:
5G-TRONIC 5-speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 Series)
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, torque converter lock-up clutch, adaptive shift programs.
Drivetrain:
Permanent All-Wheel Drive (4MATIC)
Differential Locks:
Center differential lock, rear differential lock, front differential lock (driver-activated).
Transfer Case:
Two-speed transfer case with lockable center and rear differentials.
Length:
4707 mm (185.3 in)
Height:
1934 mm (76.1 in)
Wheelbase:
2850 mm (112.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,460 kg (5,423 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3,100 kg (6,834 lbs)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 650 - 1580 Liters (with rear seats folded)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 230 mm (9.06 in)
Approach Angle:
36 degrees
Departure Angle:
27 degrees
Breakover Angle:
21 degrees
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4-star (Driver), 5-star (Passenger) - 2004 Model Year Standards
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good
Passive Features:
Dual-stage front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags (optional), seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (ASR), all-wheel drive.
Front Brakes:
Ventilated Discs, 330 mm diameter
Rear Brakes:
Ventilated Discs, 325 mm diameter
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x130 mm
Standard Wheel Size:
18 x 7.5 inches
Standard Tire Size:
265/60R18
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with CD player and optional navigation.
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system (often optional).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (rear), electronic traction control.
Connectivity:
Limited by 2004 standards; typically includes integrated phone preparation (GSM).
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC).
Lighting:
Bi-xenon headlights (optional/standard depending on market), fog lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 100,000 miles (iridium type).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 miles (Mercedes-Benz service recommendation often states 'lifetime', but regular changes are recommended for longevity).
Engine Oil Specification:
Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts)
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz Coolant/Antifreeze (MB 325.0 or MB 326.0), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (MB-Approval 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Hydraulic Fluid: MB 343.0 or equivalent Pentosin CHF 11S
Known Issues:
Rear main seal leaks, fuel pump failures, aging O-rings and seals leading to fluid leaks, potential for rust on the chassis, electronic component failures (e.g., ABS sensors, window regulators), HVAC blower motor issues.
Typical Maintenance Cost:
High due to specialized parts and labor costs associated with Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and innovation, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
Model Evolution:
The G-Class, initially developed as a military vehicle, has evolved into a highly sought-after luxury SUV. The W463 generation, introduced in 1990, refined its design and luxury features while retaining its core off-road capabilities.
Production Location:
Graz, Austria (by Magna Steyr)
Production Years For W463 G500:
1998-2004 (for the 5.0L V8)
Recognitions:
While specific awards for the 2004 model year are less documented, the G-Class consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction surveys for luxury SUVs and off-road capability.
Ratings:
Frequently lauded for its build quality, durability, and off-road performance by automotive journalists and enthusiast publications.
