Positioning:
The 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML500 (W163) was positioned as a premium mid-size luxury SUV, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and off-road capability.
Competitors:
Competed against other luxury SUVs of its era such as the BMW X5, Lexus RX, Audi Q7 (introduced later but conceptually similar), and Cadillac Escalade.
Vehicle Highlights:
Powerful V8 engine, standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive, luxurious interior appointments, advanced safety features for its time, and a sophisticated ride quality.
Value:
This officially licensed software provides factory-accurate repair and diagnostic information, essential for accurate maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs, saving time and preventing costly mistakes.
Engine Management:
Detailed coverage of the M112 E50 engine, including fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, and lubrication systems.
Powertrain:
Comprehensive information on the 722.6 5-speed automatic transmission, including control systems, torque converter, and internal components. Coverage of the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
Chassis And Suspension:
In-depth technical data for the independent front and rear suspension, steering system (including power steering), and braking system (ABS, ESP).
Electrical And Electronic Systems:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical architecture, including starting and charging systems, lighting, comfort systems, instrument cluster, and diagnostic interfaces. Includes detailed wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Information on body panels, doors, windows, seating, HVAC system components, and safety restraints.
Maintenance And Service:
Step-by-step procedures for routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults, including error code interpretation.
Repair And Replacement:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and repair, from minor adjustments to major sub-assembly overhauls.
Component Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise technical specifications, measurements, and tolerances required for accurate assembly and repair.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for critical fasteners across all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes advanced diagnostic information and detailed electrical troubleshooting.
Format:
Proprietary software application, likely with a PDF-like interface for document viewing. Searchable text capabilities are standard for this type of product.
Printability:
Printable pages for specific sections or the entire manual. High-resolution diagrams and illustrations suitable for printing.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Software)
Paper Quality:
Not Applicable (Software)
Engine Type:
V8, 4-valve per cylinder, SOHC (M112 E50)
Displacement:
4966 cc (5.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
292 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
335 lb-ft @ 2700-4250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME 2.8 or similar)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 84.0 mm
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Front-dual airbags, front-side airbags, and optional rear side airbags. Rollover sensor with pre-tensioning seatbelts.
Audio System:
Standard premium audio system with CD player. Optional Bose sound system. COMAND APS navigation system available.
Driver Aids:
Cruise control, Parktronic parking assist (optional).
Connectivity Features:
Tele Aid emergency system, optional hands-free communication system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions; consult manual for severe conditions).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically recommended around 50,000-60,000 miles. Refer to manual for specific procedure and fluid type.
Major Service Points:
Spark plugs (approx. 100,000 miles), serpentine belt, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid change.
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 (MB 229.5 specification is critical).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or equivalent, typically a blue or greenish color, long-life silicate-based).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (e.g., Pentosin DOT 4 LV or MB approval).
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failure, mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, transmission solenoid issues, catalytic converter failure, fuel pump issues, rust on fenders and rocker panels, O2 sensor failures, ABS/ESP sensor failures.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regularly check and replace air filters, perform timely fluid changes, and inspect for any early signs of corrosion.
Mercedes Benz SUV History:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing robust and luxurious vehicles. The M-Class (W163) marked their entry into the modern luxury SUV segment in the late 1990s.
W163 Generation:
The W163 generation (1998-2005) was the first generation of the M-Class. The 2005 model year represents the final year of this generation, featuring various updates and refinements, including the introduction of the more powerful ML500 variant.
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA (assembly plant)
