Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking a blend of luxury, utility, and off-road capability.
Competitors:
BMW X5, Lexus RX300, Audi allroad quattro, Volvo XC90
Drivetrain:
Standard 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.
Engine Powertrain:
Smooth and refined M112 V6 engine.
Comfort And Luxury:
Premium interior materials, advanced climate control, and comfortable seating typical of Mercedes-Benz.
Utility:
SUV body style offering ample cargo space and towing capability.
Vehicle Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Interior Features, Exterior Features, Safety Systems, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Operation
Engine Management:
Detailed explanations of engine operation, warning lamps, and basic troubleshooting for the M112 V6 engine.
Powertrain Operation:
Explanation of the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, gear selection, and driving modes (Comfort, Sport).
4Matic AWD:
Information on the permanent all-wheel-drive system operation and its benefits.
Braking System:
Details on ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Brake Assist.
Safety Features:
Coverage of airbags (front, side), SRS, seat belt pre-tensioners, and child seat anchoring systems (ISOFIX).
Comfort Controls:
Operation of climate control, heated seats, power seats, and sunroof.
Lighting And Wipers:
Explanation of exterior and interior lighting functions, automatic headlamps, and wiper controls.
Instrument Cluster:
Understanding of all gauges, indicators, and warning lights.
Routine Maintenance:
Guidance on checking fluid levels, tire pressure, and basic cleaning.
Troubleshooting Basics:
Information to help diagnose common issues using dashboard indicators and basic checks.
Key Fob Operation:
Instructions on using the remote key fob for locking, unlocking, and alarm.
Infotainment Operation:
Basic operation of the audio system and radio functions.
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level understanding and operation, not detailed repair procedures. Focuses on safe operation and routine checks.
Engine Type:
V6, SOHC (3 Valves per Cylinder)
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic (or equivalent MB-Approved 229.5 specification)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Coolant (Glysantin G48) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (722.6)
Drive Wheels:
4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
Electronic Control:
Electronically controlled with multiple shift modes (Comfort, Sport).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 US quarts (7.0 liters) for a fluid and filter change.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Approved 236.10 Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent).
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver & Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4 Stars (Front Passenger), 3 Stars (Rear Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Electronic Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Child Seats:
ISOFIX child seat anchoring points
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with optional Bose sound system.
Navigation:
Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Parktronic parking sensors available.
Telematics:
Optional Tele Aid emergency calling system.
Keyless Entry:
Standard remote keyless entry.
Power Features:
Power windows, power locks, power mirrors, power adjustable front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Transmission Service:
Approximately every 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) for fluid and filter change, consult service manual for exact mileage.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually.
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Approved Power Steering Fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (MB 331.0 specification)
Common Problems:
Potential for Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil pack failures, ABS/ESP module failures (especially related to yaw rate sensors), blower motor resistor failure, and door handle actuator failures.
Rust Concerns:
Inspect wheel wells, rocker panels, and tailgate for rust, particularly in areas with road salt exposure.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, renowned for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety innovations in automotive history.
First Generation:
The W163 ML-Class was introduced in 1997 as Mercedes-Benz's first foray into the SUV market.
2001 Updates:
The 2001 model year featured minor updates, including new exterior color options and potential feature adjustments across trim levels.
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA (for North American market)
Production Years:
1997-2005 (W163 generation)
Automotive Journalism Awards:
While specific awards for the 2001 ML320 are not widely documented, the ML-Class generally received positive reviews for its luxury, comfort, and capability upon its introduction.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this era of Mercedes-Benz can be mixed; thorough inspection and maintenance are crucial.
