Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (M112, M113, M137 V6, V8, V12 engines), fuel, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, engine management (ME, LH-SFI, etc.)
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (5G-TRONIC 722.6), hydraulic control, electronic control, torque converter, removal/installation, internal components
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, axles, differential, rear axle housing, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shocks, control arms, springs, bushings, air suspension (ABC - Active Body Control) components and diagnostics
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake discs, pads, calipers, lines, fluid, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, linkage, hydraulic pump
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), body control modules (BCM), comfort modules, CAN-BUS communication, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system, refrigerant circuits, climate control modules, blower motor, compressor, evaporator, condenser
Body:
Body panels, doors, hoods, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, seats, convertible top (if applicable), sunroof
Infotainment:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, radio, navigation, amplifier, speakers, antenna systems
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing, wiring harness tracing
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, and replacement procedures for all covered systems
Diagnostics:
Use of diagnostic scan tools (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS), sensor data interpretation, actuator testing, module programming/coding
Specifications:
Torque specifications, alignment procedures, component measurements, clearances
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth component overhauls and electrical diagnostics
User Level:
Professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
System Name:
COMAND 2.0 / 2.5
Features:
CD-based navigation, AM/FM radio, CD player, cassette deck (early models), optional premium sound systems
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional DISTRONIC (Distance Pilot)
Parking Assistance:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors
Bus Systems:
CAN-BUS for module communication, LIN-BUS for certain components
Seats:
Multi-contour, heated, ventilated, massaging seats (optional)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions, often extended with synthetic oil)
Major Service A:
Approx. 15,000 - 20,000 miles (includes inspection of various systems, fluid level checks)
Major Service B:
Approx. 30,000 - 40,000 miles (includes items from Service A plus brake fluid change, cabin filter replacement, spark plug replacement at later intervals)
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 (MB 229.3 or MB 229.5)
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 (Glycol-based, blue/green, antifreeze/coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Abc Suspension:
Hydraulic leaks, pump failures, strut failures, pressure accumulator issues (common on high-mileage vehicles)
Ignition Coils:
Coil pack failures, particularly on V8 and V12 engines, leading to misfires
Catalytic Converters:
Premature failure due to age or engine issues
Window Regulators:
Motor or mechanism failure
Door Lock Actuators:
Failure of central locking mechanisms