🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

ML Class

Chassis Code:

W164

Model Year:

2008

Generation Code:

Second Generation (W164)

Product Code Descriptor:

Service Repair Workshop Manual Download PDF

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Luxury Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)

Key Competitors:

BMW X5, Audi Q7, Lexus RX, Volvo XC90, Cadillac SRX.

Vehicle Philosophy:

Combines Mercedes-Benz luxury, comfort, and advanced technology with SUV practicality and off-road capability (especially with 4MATIC).

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent technicians with factory-level repair and maintenance data, ensuring accuracy and cost-effectiveness.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (exact number not specified, but described as 'very detailed')

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English (implied by typical market and product description)

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Licensing Terms:

No expiry dates, lifetime use, unlimited devices

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine management (ECU), turbocharging/supercharging (if applicable).

Transmission Systems:

Automatic Transmission (e.g., 7G-TRONIC), manual transmission (if offered), transfer case, drive shafts, differentials.

Drivetrain Systems:

All-Wheel Drive (4MATIC) system, axles, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Braking Systems:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Steering Systems:

Power steering system, steering column, steering rack, hydraulic fluid specifications.

Suspension Systems:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, air suspension (AIRMATIC, if equipped), leveling control.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, CAN bus communication.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, sunroof, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention, corrosion protection.

HVAC Systems:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant types, system operation, component testing.

Infotainment Systems:

COMAND system (if equipped), audio system, navigation, telephone integration, display units, speaker systems.

Safety Systems:

Airbags, seat belts, seat belt pretensioners, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components, passive safety features.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission), tire rotation and balancing, spark plug replacement, brake inspection.

Troubleshooting Procedures:

Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, mechanical diagnostics.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component repair and replacement (pistons, rings, valves, bearings), transmission overhaul and repair, brake system repair (calipers, master cylinder), suspension component replacement (shocks, ball joints), electrical component testing and replacement (sensors, actuators, modules), body panel repair and replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed steps for diagnosing specific malfunctions, including use of diagnostic tools and equipment.

Installation Procedures:

Component installation and removal procedures, including specific torque specifications and alignment guides.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostics, including electrical schematics and component testing methods.

Visual Aids:

Hundreds of pages with detailed photos, diagrams, and exploded views.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text (typical for factory PDFs)

Printability:

Printable (single pages or entire manual)

Binding:

Digital (downloadable PDF, no physical binding)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2008:

Commonly includes 3.0L V6 (ML350), 5.0L V8 (ML500), and potentially 3.2L Diesel V6 (ML320 CDI) or 4.0L Diesel V8 (ML420 CDI) depending on market. The manual is likely comprehensive for all variants offered in its target market.

Engine Code Examples:

M272 (3.5L V6 gasoline), M113 (5.0L V8 gasoline), OM642 (3.0L V6 diesel).

Horsepower Range Typical:

Approximately 228 hp (ML350) to 382 hp (ML500).

Torque Range Typical:

Approximately 273 lb-ft (ML350) to 391 lb-ft (ML500).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection or direct injection depending on engine variant.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended for gasoline engines), Diesel fuel (ULSD for diesel engines).

Oil Type Recommendation:

Typically Mobil 1 Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or equivalent meeting MB-Approval 229.5 specification (verify with manual for specific engine).

Coolant Type Recommendation:

MB-Approval 325.0 (Blue/Green silicate-containing coolant) or 326.0 (premixed) or 325.6 (Yellow silicate-containing coolant) depending on model year and original fill.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC)

Optional Transmission:

Not typically offered for W164 in North America, but manual variations exist in other markets.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Specification 236.14 (ATF LT 71141 or equivalent, blue color).

Transfer Case:

Integrated with 7G-TRONIC for 4MATIC AWD system.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 114.7 inches (2916 mm)

Length:

Approx. 189.5 inches (4813 mm)

Width:

Approx. 75.9 inches (1928 mm)

Height:

Approx. 69.5 inches (1765 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 4,600 - 4,900 lbs (2087 - 2223 kg) depending on engine and equipment.

Towing Capacity:

Typically up to 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) with optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Typically received high ratings (e.g., 5-star) in NHTSA frontal and side impact crash tests for its era. (Specific ratings should be verified for the exact model year).

IIHS Ratings:

Often awarded 'Top Safety Pick' by IIHS. (Specific ratings should be verified for the exact model year).

Active Safety Systems:

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive, ABS, ESP, Traction Control (ASR), Brake Assist (BAS), tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Passive Safety Features:

Multi-stage front airbags, side airbags, window airbags, front active head restraints, front seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, featuring a central display, radio, CD/DVD player, optional navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional features might include: Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC), adaptive cruise control (DISTRONIC), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, auxiliary audio input.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Flexible service system (ASSYST PLUS) indicates specific needs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Typically recommended around 50,000 to 70,000 miles for the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission (verify in manual for specific interval and fluid type).

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles or as indicated by the service system.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 to 20,000 miles or annually.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0).

Common Issues W164:

Potential issues can include: leaking oil cooler seals, coolant leaks from crossover pipes or thermostat housing, front balance shaft wear (M272 engine), active suspension system faults (AIRMATIC), fuel pump failures, and certain electronic module failures. The manual will detail diagnostics and repair for these.

Common Issues W164 Diesel:

For diesel models (e.g., OM642), common issues can include: NOx sensor failures, glow plug issues, DPF regeneration problems, and EGR valve problems. The manual will provide specific diagnostic procedures for these.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Recognition:

Mercedes-Benz is renowned for luxury, engineering quality, safety, and technological innovation.

W164 Introduction:

The W164 ML-Class was introduced in 2005 as a successor to the W163, featuring a significant redesign, improved aerodynamics, more sophisticated interior, and advanced technology, including the 4MATIC AWD system as standard in many markets.

W164 Facelift:

The W164 received a facelift for the 2009 model year, which included updated styling, new powertrains, and further technological enhancements. The 2008 model falls within the pre-facelift period.

Manufacturing Plant:

Primarily manufactured at the Mercedes-Benz Tuscaloosa plant in Alabama, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards General:

The ML-Class generally received positive reviews for its luxury, performance, and safety during its production run, often cited in 'best SUV' or 'luxury SUV' comparisons by automotive publications.