Positioning:
Premium Luxury Crossover/MPV
Competitors:
BMW X5, Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, Lexus RX
Vehicle Focus:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, advanced technology, luxury appointments, available all-wheel drive
Value:
Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information, enabling DIY repairs and informed service decisions, saving time and money.
Powertrain:
Engine (various configurations), Fuel Service, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust/Cooling Systems, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission (if applicable to specific W251 variants), Transfer Case, Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle
Chassis:
Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brakes, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering
Electrical Electronics:
Ignition Starting Charging, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Electrical Systems, Multiplex/CAN Communication
Body Interior:
Body, Exterior & Interior Components, Seats, Engine Hood/Doors
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems, component removal and installation, adjustments
Technical Data:
Specifications, torque values, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, tolerances, diagnostic procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, technician-level detail for diagnosis, maintenance, and repair
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac
Features:
Searchable text, printable pages, ability to blow up images
Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing detailed diagrams and schematics
Binding:
Digital (PDF), no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital)
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (or similar decompression utility)
Engine Options:
Likely includes 3.5L V6 (e.g., M272) and potentially 4.7L V8 (e.g., M273) gasoline engines, and a 3.0L V6 turbodiesel (e.g., OM642) for different markets. Specific engine codes are crucial for precise data.
Horsepower Torque:
Variable by engine. For example, the R350 with M272 V6 typically produced around 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The R500 with M273 V8 would be higher. Diesel variants would offer strong torque.
Type:
Fuel Injection (MPI/GDI depending on engine variant), Diesel Common Rail for turbodiesel models.
System:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with thermostat and fan.
Type:
7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS)
Drivetrain:
4MATIC All-Wheel Drive was widely available and often standard on higher trims.
Control:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shift programs, manual shifting modes (e.g., via paddle shifters or selector lever).
Length:
Approximately 196.5 inches (for standard wheelbase)
Width:
Approximately 78.5 inches
Height:
Approximately 67.7 inches
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, typically ranging from 4,600 lbs to over 5,000 lbs.
NHTSA Safety:
The W251 R-Class generally performed well in crash tests, achieving good ratings. Specific ratings for the 2012 model would need to be verified.
Driver Assistance:
ABS, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS), tire pressure monitoring (TPMS), available Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, front and rear head airbags.
System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system, typically with a 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional Harman Kardon surround sound.
Advanced Features:
Optional features included DISTRONIC PLUS (adaptive cruise control with proximity warning and braking), PARKTRONIC parking assist, rearview camera, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Assist.
Integration:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional USB interface for media playback.
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, using synthetic oil (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent meeting MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51).
Transmission Fluid:
Mercedes-Benz typically recommends a transmission fluid and filter change at intervals like 40,000 to 60,000 miles, using specified ATF (e.g., MB-Approval 236.10 or 236.14).
Coolant Change:
Initial change at ~15,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years. Use Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., ZEREX G48).
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific hydraulic fluid approved by Mercedes-Benz (check manual for specific part number, often MB-Approval 343.0).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0).
Engine M272:
Timing chain wear, balance shaft issues (if applicable to early production of M272), intake manifold flap issues, oil leaks from valve covers and oil filter housing.
Transmission 7G Tronic:
Solenoid issues, torque converter problems, occasional rough shifting.
Air Suspension:
If equipped with Airmatic, air springs can leak, compressor failure, valve block issues.
Electronics:
Various module failures (e.g., SAM units), CAN bus communication errors, occasional sensor failures.
