Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV (W164 ML-Class)
Target Audience:
Owners seeking detailed DIY repair information, independent repair shops
Competitors 2008:
BMW X5, Audi Q7, Lexus RX
Vehicle Highlights:
Powerful V8 engine, comfortable ride, advanced safety features, luxurious interior
Manual Advantage:
Official, factory-level diagnostic and repair data, crucial for accurate maintenance and troubleshooting of complex Mercedes-Benz systems.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust systems
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC), transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, axles
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, power steering
Brakes:
Brake system components, ABS, ESP, brake diagnostics and repair
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, CAN bus communication
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, HVAC system, chassis components
Comfort Convenience:
Power windows, seats, mirrors, sunroof, keyless entry, climate control
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit diagrams, component testing
Repair Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, and body components
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Mercedes-Benz tools required for specific repairs
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, alignment data, and other critical tolerances
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced, including wiring diagrams and component testing procedures
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Engine Type:
V8, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
5.5 Liters (5461 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
98.0 mm x 90.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Horsepower:
382 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
Emissions Standard:
EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / CARB LEV II
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star
IIHS Front Crashworthiness:
Good
IIHS Side Crashworthiness:
Good
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
All-Season Traction Control (4ETS)
Brake Assist:
Brake Assist System (BAS)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and belt-force limiters
Child Seats:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Head Unit:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation System)
Audio System:
Boseยฎ surround sound system (optional)
Navigation:
HDD-based navigation system
Parking Aid:
PARKTRONIC (front and rear parking sensors)
Adaptive Cruise Control:
DISTRONIC (optional)
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Optional (part of Driving Assistance Package)
Bluetooth:
Bluetoothยฎ interface for hands-free calling
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months (depending on driving conditions, refer to manual for specific 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicators)
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended at 40,000-60,000 miles, consult manual for specific recommendations based on operating conditions.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 20,000 miles, replace as needed or at 40,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 10,000 miles, replace annually or as needed.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-40 Synthetic (Meets MB 229.5 specification)
Coolant:
MB 325.0 Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (Meets MB 331.0 specification)
Air Suspension Problems:
Leaking air springs, compressor failures (if equipped with optional AIRMATIC)
Ignition Coil Failures:
Can lead to misfires and rough running.
Oil Cooler Leaks:
Leaking seals can cause coolant loss and oil contamination.
Transfer Case Actuator:
Potential for failure, leading to AWD system issues.
7G-Tronic Transmission:
Conductor plate issues or mechatronic unit failures can occur.
Mercedes Benz Heritage:
Pioneer in automotive engineering, known for luxury, safety, and innovation since the late 19th century.
W164 Introduction:
The W164 generation of the M-Class was introduced for the 2006 model year, replacing the W163. The ML550, with the larger V8, debuted for the 2008 model year, offering increased performance.
W164 Platform:
Unibody construction, shared platform with the R-Class and GL-Class.
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
๐ Awards & Recognition
IIHS Top Safety Pick Year:
The W164 ML-Class often received high safety marks, contributing to the model line's reputation.
Car And Driver 2008 Comparison:
Frequently cited in comparative reviews for its blend of luxury, power, and utility.
