Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Key Competitors:
BMW X5, Lexus RX300, Audi allroad quattro, Volvo XC90.
Vehicle Usp:
Offered Mercedes-Benz luxury and refinement in an SUV package, often with advanced 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and powerful engine options.
Diy Advantage:
Enables cost savings on maintenance and repairs by empowering owners with step-by-step instructions and visuals.
General Coverage:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types within the specified years.
Estimated Page Count:
High volume, likely exceeding 1500 pages
Type:
Complete Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Digital Format:
Downloadable (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition, exhaust, engine control systems (ECU), transmission (automatic).
Drivetrain:
Four-Wheel Drive (4MATIC) system, differentials, axles, driveshafts, wheel bearings.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, ESP), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, comfort systems (HVAC, power windows/locks), SRS (Airbag) system.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, chassis lubrication points.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine component removal/installation, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretations, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, technical data for all components, electrical system schematics.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs and diagnostics, including engine and transmission rebuilds.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Printability:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or entire sections.
Binding:
N/A (Downloadable Format)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Downloadable Format)
Required Software:
Adobe Reader (free download)
Engine Type:
3.2L V6 SOHC M112 E32
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Engine Type:
4.3L V8 SOHC M113 E43
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 92.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
275 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Engine Type:
5.4L V8 SOHC M113 E55 AMG
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 92.0 mm
Horsepower:
349 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
376 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Engine Oil Ml320 Ml430:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 Synthetic (API SM or higher, MB-Approval 229.5)
Engine Oil Ml55:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (API SM or higher, MB-Approval 229.5)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Good (when tested in later models of this generation, but specific testing varies by year).
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Good (when tested in later models of this generation, but specific testing varies by year).
Brake Assist Plus:
Available, enhances braking force in emergency situations.
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP) on most models, helps prevent skidding.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard (4MATIC) on most models, enhances traction and stability.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Audio System:
Premium audio systems from Bose or Becker available, with options for CD players and navigation systems (COMAND).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Distronic adaptive cruise control on some models.
Phone Integration:
Optional hands-free communication systems (e.g., UHI interface).
Service Intervals Oil Ml320 Ml430
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil).
Service Intervals Oil Ml55
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil).
Major Service Points:
Spark plug replacement (approx. 100,000 miles), coolant flush (approx. 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years), transmission fluid and filter service (approx. 60,000 miles or 4 years).
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can cause stalling or no-start conditions.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Can become dirty or fail, leading to rough idling and poor performance.
Cooling System Leaks:
Plastic components in the cooling system can become brittle and leak over time.
Ignition Coils:
Can fail, leading to misfires and rough running.
E Class Window Regulators:
Common failure point for power windows.
Brand Focus:
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety innovations.
W163 Introduction:
Introduced in 1997 for the 1998 model year, marking Mercedes-Benz's entry into the luxury SUV market.
Facelift:
Received a significant facelift for the 2002 model year (W163 series continuation), featuring revised styling, improved interior, and updated technology.
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA.
Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:
Not directly awarded in this specific model year range, but the M-Class lineage has been recognized in the SUV segment.
Consumer Reports:
Ratings varied by model year, with early models sometimes showing average reliability but later models showing improvement.
