Vehicle Class:
Luxury Mid-size SUV
Target Audience:
Luxury SUV buyers seeking comfort, capability, and advanced features
Key Competitors:
BMW X5, Lexus RX, Land Rover Discovery
Unique Selling Points:
Mercedes-Benz luxury and engineering, advanced safety features, optional V8 engine, robust build quality
Powertrain:
Engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic), transfer case, drive axles, differentials, propeller shafts
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Engine control modules (ECU), body control modules (BCM), lighting systems, instrument cluster, power accessories, climate control electronics, infotainment system wiring
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, bumpers, exterior trim, collision repair guidance
Maintenance:
Routine service checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacements
Repair:
Component-level repair, sub-assembly replacement, major overhaul procedures, electrical troubleshooting and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed diagnostic procedures
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text, enabling quick access to specific topics
Illustration Quality:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations, detailed step-by-step guides
Binding Format:
Digital download (no physical binding)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Likely 4-star (driver and passenger), based on period testing
IIHS Side Impact:
Good, based on period testing
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation)
Electronic Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Braking System:
4-wheel disc brakes with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Bose premium sound system
Navigation:
Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with integrated GPS
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors
Connectivity Options:
Limited by era; typical features include auxiliary input for audio (later models), optional satellite radio
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Major Service Interval:
Around 30,000-40,000 miles, includes spark plugs, filters, coolant flush
Engine Oil Spec:
MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or similar synthetic)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (for 5G-TRONIC)
Coolant Spec:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, pink or blue)
Common Problems:
Balance shaft wear on early M112 engines, electronic module failures (e.g., ESP/ABS module), window regulator failures, catalytic converter issues, early transmission torque converter problems
Brand Origin:
Germany, founded in 1926 through merger of Benz & Cie. and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft
Brand Reputation:
Renowned for luxury, engineering, safety, and innovation in automotive industry
Introduction Year:
1997 (for model year 1998)
First Generation:
W163 (1998-2005)
Facelift:
Minor facelift for 2002 model year, including revised front fascia, lighting, and interior updates
Manufacturing Plant:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
