Engine Mechanics:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all engine components. Includes engine timing, valve adjustments, head gasket replacement, piston and ring installation, crankshaft and camshaft service.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emissions control systems (catalytic converter, EGR, PCV), oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensor (MAF), throttle body, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and repair.
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair of the 722.6 '5G-TRONIC' five-speed automatic transmission. Includes troubleshooting, component replacement (clutch packs, valve body, torque converter), fluid and filter changes, electronic control unit (TCU) diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel drive (4MATIC) system, transfer case, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, hub assemblies. Includes lubrication and inspection procedures.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), coil springs, anti-roll bars. Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, hoses), steering column, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) components and diagnostics. Brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuse box locations and diagrams, wiring diagrams for all major systems, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lights), horn, wipers, washers.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning (AC) system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant recharge), heating system (heater core, blower motor, climate control module), cabin air filter replacement.
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, door and window mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation, underbody coating, rust prevention, body sealing.
Restraints System:
Airbag system components, seat belts, SRS module diagnostics and replacement. Safety precautions for working with airbag systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush and replacement, transmission fluid and filter service, brake fluid replacement, power steering fluid replacement, differential fluid changes.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common problems, symptom-based diagnostics, use of diagnostic scan tools (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS), reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components, including alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, fuel injectors, radiators, AC compressors, window regulators, door handles, etc.
Major Overhaul:
Procedures for complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and suspension system rebuilds.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine timing specifications, valve clearances, fluid capacities, pressure test specifications, alignment specifications, tire pressure recommendations.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repair, including engine and transmission overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for models tested in earlier years, later models saw improvements).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable/Good (depending on year and specific test configuration).
Active Safety Features:
4MATIC All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, optional rear side airbags, side curtain airbags (later models), front and rear crumple zones, reinforced passenger compartment, seatbelt pretensioners.
Infotainment System:
Early models featured a basic AM/FM/CD player with optional navigation. Later models offered more advanced COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) systems with larger displays, improved audio quality, and more integrated features.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, ESP, traction control, optional park assist (Parktronic), rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control.
Connectivity Features:
Early models had limited connectivity. Later models offered optional telematics systems (e.g., Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid), satellite radio readiness, and integration with mobile phones via Bluetooth (later models).
Lighting Options:
Halogen headlights, optional Xenon HID headlights with dynamic aiming, fog lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 40,000 miles (64,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
ML320 (M112): 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs. ML500 (M113): 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Transmission Service Interval:
Every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) for fluid and filter change (highly recommended for longevity).
Coolant Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Common Issues List:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failures, ignition coil failures (especially on V6 engines), ABS/ESP sensor issues, O2 sensor failures, transmission conductor plate failures (common on 722.6 transmissions), front suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), window regulator failures, crankcase ventilation system (PCV) clogging, fuel pump failures, rust on the rear quarter panels and rocker panels.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 specification hydraulic fluid.
Cooling System Capacity:
Approximately 10.6 quarts (10.0 L).
