🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

ML500

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

W164

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML500 (W164) represented a significant step forward in the luxury SUV segment, competing with vehicles like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Lexus RX. It offered a blend of performance, luxury, and off-road capability.

Competitive Analysis:

This manual provides the definitive technical resource for a vehicle that was engineered to set benchmarks in its class for comfort, safety, and powertrain refinement.

Key Features:

Offered powerful V8 engine, sophisticated 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, advanced safety features, and luxurious interior appointments. This manual ensures owners and technicians can maintain and repair these complex systems to factory standards.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete service and repair for 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML500 (W164 chassis)

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive software)

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download, likely PDF or proprietary executable)

Manual Type Detail:

Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Management (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic - 7G-TRONIC), Drivetrain (4MATIC All-Wheel Drive), Suspension (Front Independent, Rear Independent), Steering System, Braking System (ABS, ESP, SBC), Electrical System (12V, charging, starting), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, HVAC (Climate Control), Infotainment, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Chassis, Body Panels, Interior Trim, Diagnostics (OBD-II, Star Diagnosis compatibility), Troubleshooting Guides

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Component Removal and Installation, Component Disassembly and Assembly, Adjustments, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting of Common Faults, Electrical Schematics, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Specifications, Wiring Diagrams, Repair Procedures, Special Tool Requirements, Reassembly and Final Checks

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level technical information suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

Troubleshooting:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including component locations and connector views.

Chassis Codes:

Exclusively covers the W164 chassis.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF or executable software package with search functionality.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Software)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Searchability:

Software is typically searchable by keywords, component, or system.

Updates:

N/A (This is for a specific model year; factory updates are not typically included in aftermarket digital manuals).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

M113 E50 (5.0L V8)

Horsepower:

302 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

339 lb-ft @ 2800-4000 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential multi-port injection.

Engine Code:

M113

Bore Stroke:

97.0 mm x 84.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 3 valves per cylinder

Engine Code Detailed:

M113.977 (Specific variant for ML500 W164)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic

Optional Transmission:

N/A (7G-TRONIC was standard on ML500 for this year)

Features:

Driver-adaptive shift logic, Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

MB-Approval 236.14 (e.g., Mercedes-Benz ATF Shell 134)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.5 inches (4788 mm)

Width:

75.2 inches (1910 mm)

Height:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,800 lbs (2177 kg)

Towing Capacity:

7,700 lbs (3500 kg) with optional tow package

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

40.3 cu ft (1141 L)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

85.0 cu ft (2407 L)

Wheelbase:

114.7 inches (2915 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.5 inches (216 mm) in standard configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

5 Stars

IIHS Front Crash:

Good

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

Active Features:

Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Passive Features:

Front airbags, front-side airbags, side curtain airbags, active front head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation system) with CD/DVD player, optional satellite radio, and optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.

Driver Assistance:

Optional Distronic adaptive cruise control, Parktronic parking assist system.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth hands-free communication (optional), Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid emergency calling system.

Lighting:

Optional Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination, LED taillights.

🔧 Maintenance

Service A Interval:

Approximately 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (flexible based on driving conditions and oil quality, monitored by 'Assyst Plus' system).

Service B Interval:

Approximately 20,000 miles or 24 months after Service A.

Engine Oil Spec:

MB-Approval 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic)

Coolant Spec:

MB-Approval 325.0 (Concentrate, requires mixing with distilled water) or pre-mixed MB-Approval 326.0

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

MB-Approval 343.0

Known Issues:

PCV valve failure leading to oil leaks/consumption, intake manifold flap runner issues, transmission control module (TCM) failures, SBC brake system hydraulic unit lifespan issues (though less prevalent on 2006 models with likely hardware revisions), air suspension compressor failure, electronic parking brake issues, coolant leaks from plastic components, ignition coil failures.

Spark Plug Part Number:

Bosch FGR7KQE0U (or equivalent with MB approval)

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter HU 833/1 (or equivalent with MB approval)

Engine Oil Capacity:

8.5 Liters (with filter change)

Tire Size Standard:

255/55R18

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive safety technology.

Model Evolution:

The W164 generation, introduced for the 2006 model year, was a significant redesign of the M-Class line, featuring a more robust chassis, updated styling, and a more luxurious and technologically advanced interior.

Production Location:

Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The W164 ML-Class, including the ML500, received various accolades for safety and luxury upon its release. Specific awards may vary by region and publication.

Ratings:

Consistently received high marks in luxury SUV comparisons for its performance, build quality, and advanced features.