Positioning:
High-performance luxury SUV, a halo model within the ML-Class lineup, targeted at affluent buyers seeking both utility and exhilarating driving dynamics.
Competitors:
BMW X5 M, Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Audi RS Q7 (though less direct), Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged.
Performance Focus:
Hand-built AMG 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, performance-tuned suspension, AMG braking system, aggressive styling.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual (Digital Software)
Format:
Software (likely PDF/Proprietary Digital Format)
Powertrain:
Engine (M156), Transmission (7G-TRONIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS), Drivetrain (4MATIC All-Wheel Drive)
Chassis:
Suspension (AIRMATIC), Steering, Brakes (AMG High-Performance Braking System), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio System, Navigation, Climate Control, Safety Systems (SRS, ABS, ESP)
Body And Interior:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Airbags, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Inspections
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Explanations, Component Testing Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Engine Specific Repairs:
Detailed procedures for M156 engine common issues such as camshaft adjuster wear, oil leaks, and performance tuning adjustments.
Drivetrain Maintenance:
Includes service information for the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, including differentials and transfer case.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component overhaul.
Diagnostic Tools:
Includes procedures and information relevant to using Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools such as STAR DIAGNOSIS (SDS).
Wiring Diagrams:
Extensive electrical schematic diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
6208 cc (6.2 Liters)
Horsepower:
507 hp @ 6800 rpm
Torque:
479 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz specified G48 or equivalent (blue/green).
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 liters (9 quarts)
Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (specific model dependent, e.g., ME 9.7)
Transmission Type:
AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmissions:
N/A for this AMG variant.
Shift Modes:
Comfort (C), Sport (S), Manual (M) with paddle shifters.
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9.0 liters (9.5 quarts)
Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 134)
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star (for similar W164 models)
IIHS Front Offset:
Good (for similar W164 models)
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP)
Anti-Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS) with Brake Assist (BAS)
All Wheel Drive:
Standard (4MATIC)
Airbags:
Front, Side, Curtain, and Driver's Knee Airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and Force Limiters
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Features:
Navigation system, CD/DVD changer, AM/FM radio, auxiliary audio input, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control; optional DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control might be available.
Parking Assist:
Front and rear parking sensors (PARKTRONIC).
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling.
System Type:
Dual-zone automatic climate control (THERMATIC) or optional THERMOTRONIC with additional zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable (based on ASSYST PLUS system), typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles for optimal performance and longevity.
Spark Plug Interval:
Typically 60,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on plug type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 343.0 (Hydraulic fluid)
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and rotors (due to performance driving), suspension bushings, front camshaft adjusters (M156 engine), spark plugs and ignition coils.
Electronic Issues:
Can include occasional issues with sensors, control modules, and COMAND infotainment system.
Amg Legacy:
AMG, established in 1967, known for its high-performance engine tuning and vehicle development for Mercedes-Benz.
W164 Generation:
The W164 ML-Class replaced the W163 and introduced significant improvements in refinement, technology, and performance. The ML63 AMG variant was the pinnacle of performance for this generation.
Production Years:
2006-2011 (W164 generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
