Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Target Audience:
Technicians, DIY enthusiasts, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Key Competitors:
BMW X5 (E53), Lexus RX (RX300/RX330), Volvo XC90 (First Generation)
Design Philosophy:
Combines Mercedes-Benz luxury and engineering with SUV practicality and off-road capability.
Powertrain:
Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Cooling System, Emission System, Engine Control System, Differential/Drive, Axle
Chassis:
Brake System, Suspension, Steering, Chassis/Body
Electrical:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams
Comfort And Safety:
Heater/Air Conditioning, Restraint System, Interior
Body And Frame:
Body construction, collision repair, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seals.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, piping.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire types, sizes, pressures, wheel specifications, lug bolt torque.
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Tyre Rotation
Diagnostics And Repair:
Troubleshooting, Component Repair, System Diagnosis, Overhaul Procedures
Special Tools:
Lists and diagrams for specialized tools required for specific repair and diagnostic procedures.
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Systematic approach to diagnosing common and complex vehicle issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic procedures, including detailed specifications, torque values, and component testing.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes detailed diagnostic trees, fault code interpretations, and procedures for using diagnostic tools (e.g., Star/DAS).
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed procedures for major component rebuilds, including engine, transmission, and differentials.
Engine Options Covered:
M112 (4.3L V8), M111 (2.3L Supercharged Inline-4), OM611 (2.7L Turbo Diesel - some markets)
Typical Horsepower Range:
170 hp (ML320) to 288 hp (ML500)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Common Rail Direct Injection (for Diesel models)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4-star (Driver and Passenger - simulated)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
All-Season Traction Control (4-ETS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, Optional side airbags
Optional Features:
Bose premium sound system, CD changer, COMAND navigation system (later models).
Available Features:
Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC), Cruise Control, Rain-sensing wipers.
Early Connectivity:
Analog cellular phone integration (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Approximately 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (dependent on driving conditions).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per severe service schedule.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-30) depending on engine and year.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or MB specification)
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (e.g., ATF 4-speed, ATF 5-speed)
Common Electrical Faults:
Crankshaft position sensor failures, MAF sensor issues, SAM unit (Signal Acquisition Module) problems.
Common Powertrain Issues:
Timing chain wear (M112 engine), transmission valve body issues, differential seal leaks.
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, premature failure of strut mounts.
Brand Philosophy:
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety innovations.
Positioning In Lineup:
The first SUV offered by Mercedes-Benz, designed to compete in the burgeoning luxury SUV market.
Manufacturing Locations:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Rastatt, Germany (later models)
