Segment:
Mid-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology.
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type.
Vehicle Highlights:
The 2003 E500 represents the pinnacle of the W211 E-Class offering, emphasizing V8 power, sophisticated ride quality, and cutting-edge (for its time) technology. It's a flagship model known for its robust build and refined driving experience.
General Coverage:
Comprehensive owner's manual information
Specific Systems Covered:
Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving Procedures, Customer Assistance, Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter, Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories
Estimated Page Count:
Estimated 300-400 pages (typical for this model/year)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Digital Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Powertrain Systems:
Engine operation, fluid types, fuel recommendations, air intake system, battery, basic engine compartment identification.
Chassis Systems:
Braking system overview (driver interaction), steering wheel controls, lighting operation, lock and security functions, seating adjustments, safety restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Interior Systems:
Instrument cluster indicators and warnings, climate control operation (HVAC), entertainment system basics (radio, CD changer if equipped), driver controls (wipers, turn signals, cruise control).
Basic Maintenance:
Checking and topping off essential fluids (oil, coolant, washer fluid), checking tire pressures, basic cleaning instructions.
Safety Features Operation:
Proper use of seatbelts, child seat installation guidelines, airbag system explanations, emergency operation procedures.
Driver Assistance Operation:
Operation of cruise control, basic understanding of available driver aids (though advanced diagnostics would be in a service manual).
Depth Of Information:
Covers essential owner information for day-to-day operation and basic checks. Does not include repair procedures, detailed diagnostics, or wiring diagrams. Focuses on 'how to use' rather than 'how to fix'.
Compatibility:
Viewable on any device with a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader).
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval.
Print Readability:
High-quality digital reproduction of factory original. Assumed to be clear and legible for printing if desired.
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4.966 liters (5.0L)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valvetrain:
SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust)
Horsepower:
302 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
339 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 0W-40 (Synthetic recommended for Mercedes-Benz engines)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
MB-approved antifreeze/coolant (e.g., Mercedes-Benz Z 000 989 08 25 or equivalent HOAT, typically blue)
Air Filter Part Number:
Typical part number range: A 211 094 00 04 (verify with VIN for exact fitment)
Wheelbase:
115.1 inches (2926 mm)
Length:
190.9 inches (4850 mm)
Width:
71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
57.1 inches (1450 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,800 - 4,000 lbs (1724 - 1814 kg), depending on options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4,900 lbs (2223 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not typically specified for this model in the US market; usually limited to accessory trailer hitches for light trailers.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger) for 2003 Model Year
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for models tested)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS)
Traction Control:
Acceleration Skid Control (ASR), integrated with ESP
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags:
Front airbags (dual-stage), front side airbags, window curtain airbags (front and rear).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Primary System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system
Features:
AM/FM radio, CD player (single or multi-changer), optional navigation system, telephone integration (Bluetooth or proprietary cradle).
Display:
Color LCD display integrated into the dashboard.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Parking Assist:
Optional Parktronic parking sensors (front and rear).
Phone Integration:
Optional factory-installed hands-free phone system, often requiring a specific cradle.
Headlights:
Halogen or optional Bi-Xenon headlights with integrated fog lamps. Automatic headlight activation.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, based on the Flexible Service System (ASSYST).
Major Service Intervals:
Key service items (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant) are scheduled at higher mileage intervals, often around 30,000-60,000 miles depending on the specific component.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0 specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 specification hydraulic fluid (typically Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent, color green).
Differential Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 API GL-5 compliant for rear-wheel drive models.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings, ball joints), ignition coils (due to V8 configuration), MAF sensor, climate control blower motor resistor, SBC brake system accumulator (if equipped with Sensotronic Brake Control).
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent electrical issues can sometimes arise due to complex wiring harnesses and modules, though generally robust.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and durability, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
E Class Lineage:
The E-Class has been a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz's lineup for decades, evolving through various generations (W124, W210, W211, etc.), consistently representing the brand's mid-size executive sedan offering.
W211 Generation:
The W211 generation (2003-2009) introduced significant styling updates, improved aerodynamics, and advanced technology like COMAND, optional Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, and updated safety features compared to its W210 predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Sindelfingen, Germany, with potential for other global assembly plants.
