Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV
Key Competitors 2000:
BMW X5, Lexus RX300, Volvo XC90 (upcoming), Acura MDX
Vehicle Distinctiveness:
Offered Mercedes-Benz's signature luxury and build quality in the burgeoning SUV segment, featuring robust construction and advanced comfort features.
Advantage For Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs themselves, saving time and money, and increasing vehicle understanding.
Digital Format Advantage:
One-stop digital resource, easily searchable, printable on demand, eliminating the need for multiple physical manuals and preventing damage to original documents.
Engine Systems:
Engine, Control System, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging
Drivetrain Systems:
Auto Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel
Braking Steering Systems:
Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering
Electrical Electronics Systems:
Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Instrument Panel
Chassis Body Systems:
Exterior & Interior, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Air Condition
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed diagnosis for all systems, including troubleshooting guides and symptom-based repair strategies.
Maintenance Procedures:
Comprehensive scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, and component inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for mechanical, electrical, and bodywork repairs, including component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Wiring Schematics:
Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complex engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Options 2000 Model Year:
3.2L V6 (M112 E32) and 4.3L V8 (M113 E43)
3.2L V6 Horsepower:
Approximately 215 hp @ 5750 rpm
3.2L V6 Torque:
Approximately 229 lb-ft @ 3000-4500 rpm
4.3L V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 275 hp @ 5750 rpm
4.3L V8 Torque:
Approximately 280 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Fuel Delivery Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU Type:
ME 2.0/2.8 (Engine Control Unit)
Spark Plug Type:
Platinum or Iridium (specifics in manual)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (722.6 'G-Tronic')
Manual Transmission Availability:
Not available for the 2000 model year W163 M-Class in most markets.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, torque converter lock-up, adaptive shift programs.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 (ATF LT 71141 or equivalent)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2820 mm (111.0 in)
Length:
Approx. 4530-4635 mm (178.3-182.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1830-1835 mm (72.0-72.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1735-1760 mm (68.3-69.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1900-2100 kg (4189-4630 lbs), varies by engine and equipment
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3500 kg (7716 lbs) with optional tow package
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-star (for driver and passenger)
IIHS Crash Test Results:
Good in frontal offset, moderate in side impact (varies by specific test and year)
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Skid Control)
Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Braking Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side airbags (front and rear)
Seat Belts:
Pretensioners and force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH/ISOFIX system
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional CD changer, premium sound systems (e.g., Bose).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Optional parking sensors (front and rear) for later models, though less common on the 2000 model.
Telematics System:
Limited by modern standards; could include basic cellular integration for telecommunications in some premium packages.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact conditions and oil type).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Recommended every 50,000-60,000 miles or as per specific driving conditions (refer to manual for precise interval and procedure).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 (e.g., 5W-40 or 0W-40 synthetic) or MB 229.3 (e.g., 5W-40 synthetic) – consult manual for specific engine and climate recommendations.
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, blue color) or MB 326.0 (ready-mixed)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB spec: 331.0)
Common W163 Concerns:
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid failures, Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) issues, Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor problems, ABS/ESP module failures, power seat module corrosion, interior plastic wear.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter HU 718/1 k or equivalent Mercedes-Benz P/N A 112 180 00 09
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and durability since its inception.
W163 Introduction:
The W163 M-Class was Mercedes-Benz's first foray into the SUV market, launched in 1997 (for model year 1998) to compete with established luxury SUVs.
2000 Model Year Updates:
The 2000 model year falls within the first generation (W163), receiving minor updates; a significant facelift occurred for the 2002 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA (primary)
