Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Key Competitors:
BMW X5 (E53), Lexus RX (RX300/330), Land Rover Discovery, Volvo XC90
Design Philosophy:
First SUV from Mercedes-Benz, blending off-road capability with luxury and on-road comfort, known for robust construction and advanced features for its era.
Target Audience:
Families seeking a premium, versatile vehicle with off-road potential and the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
Covered Years:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Digital Format)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (Assumed based on typical product offerings)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (including M112 V6, M113 V8), Transmission (5G-Tronic automatic), Drivetrain (4MATIC all-wheel drive, low-range transfer case, differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (independent front, solid axle rear with coil springs), Steering (rack and pinion, hydraulic assist), Brakes (front ventilated discs, rear discs, ABS, ESP)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, ignition system, fuel injection system, climate control, power accessories, instrument cluster, SRS (airbag) system
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, upholstery, HVAC system components, sound insulation, exterior trim, interior trim, sunroof
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes), inspections, lubrication, battery maintenance
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using diagnostic tools, circuit testing
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major components and sub-assemblies
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (5G-Tronic, 722.6 series)
Optional:
N/A (Automatic was standard across the W163 range)
Driving Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Transfer Case:
2-speed electronically controlled transfer case with low-range gearing (standard on 4MATIC models)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB Approved ATF Fluid (e.g., MB 236.10, MB 236.14 - consult manual for exact specification for model year)
Length:
Approx. 187.1 inches (4753 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.8 inches (1824 mm)
Height:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 111 inches (2820 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,200 - 4,700 lbs (1905 - 2132 kg), varies by engine and trim
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with optional trailer hitch
NHTSA Front Driver:
Good (for its era, some limitations compared to modern standards)
NHTSA Front Passenger:
Good (for its era)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (with side airbags, optional)
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP) across most models and years
Anti-Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Traction Control System:
Standard (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Audio System:
Premium sound systems available (e.g., Bose), CD players, cassette decks.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system (COMAND 2.0/2.5 for later models).
Parking Assistance:
Optional parking sensors (Parktronic).
Telematics:
Optional teleaid system for emergency assistance.
Climate System:
Automatic climate control (THERMATIC or THERMATIC) with dual-zone capability available.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil)
Service Intervals Filters
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or annually
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles for optimal performance (though some sources might suggest longer, manual recommendation is key)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic (MB Approval 229.3 or 229.5)
Coolant Specification:
MB Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0, 325.5)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (or DOT 4 Plus)
ABS Esp Module:
Failure of the ABS/ESP control module, often indicated by warning lights.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can lead to stalling or no-start conditions.
Idling Issues V6:
Rough idle or stalling, often related to vacuum leaks or MAF sensor issues in M112 engines.
Window Regulator:
Common failure of power window regulators.
Rear Main Seal Leak:
Potential for rear main crankshaft seal leaks.
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz, known for luxury, engineering, and durability since 1926.
First SUV:
The W163 marked Mercedes-Benz's first foray into the SUV segment, originally called the 'M-Class'.
Facelift:
Received a significant facelift for the 2002 model year, including updated styling, interior enhancements, and revised powertrains.
Manufacturing Plant:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA (also known as MBUSI - Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc.)
Production Span:
1997-2005
