Positioning:
Essential tool for Mercedes-Benz W163 M-Class owners and independent repair shops seeking dealership-level repair information.
Advantage:
Provides vehicle-specific, technician-level data, surpassing generic repair guides. Offers comprehensive coverage in a single, easily accessible digital format.
Digital Convenience:
One-stop PDF manual, eliminating physical manual clutter and damage. Allows targeted printing of needed sections.
Accuracy:
Directly mirrors the information used by Mercedes-Benz dealership technicians.
Engine:
Comprehensive Engine Service, Diagnosis, and Repair
Control System:
Engine Control System, Drivetrain Control, Body Control Modules
Mechanical:
All Mechanical Systems and Components
Fuel Service:
Fuel System Service, Specifications, and Diagnosis
Emission Control:
Emission Control Systems and Troubleshooting
Intake Exhaust Cooling:
Intake, Exhaust, and Cooling System Service
Lube:
Lubrication Systems and Specifications
Ignition Charging:
Ignition, Starting, and Charging System Service and Diagnosis
Automatic Transmission:
Automatic Transmission Service, Diagnosis, and Repair
Manual Transmission:
Manual Transmission Service and Repair (if applicable models)
Transfer Case:
Transfer Case and Propeller Shaft Service
Drive Axle:
Drive Axle and Differential Service
Suspension:
Suspension System Service and Diagnosis
Steering:
Steering Column and Power Steering System Service
Brakes:
Brake System Control, Service, and Parking Brake
HVAC:
Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Service and Repair
Restraint System:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and Seat Belt Service
Body Electrical:
Extensive Electrical System Coverage, including Door Locks, Wiper/Washer, Horn, Mirrors, Instrument Panel, and more
Interior Exterior:
Interior and Exterior Trim, Body Panel Service, and Glass/Mirror Replacement
Multiplex Can:
Multiplex/CAN Communication Systems and Diagnostics
Maintenance:
Routine Maintenance Procedures, Schedules, and Fluid Specifications
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting and Diagnostic Procedures for all systems
Repair:
Step-by-step Repair Instructions for all components
Wiring Schematics:
Complete Wiring Schematics for all vehicle systems
Illustrations:
Detailed Diagrams and Illustrations for clarity
Depth:
Factory High Detail, Technician Level
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free)
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac
Printability:
Yes, all pages are printable
Zoom Capabilities:
Yes, images can be blown up for enlarged prints
Binding:
Digital (PDF), eliminating physical binding concerns
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Options:
Covers multiple engine variants for the W163 chassis. Likely includes: 2.3L Inline-4 (M111), 3.2L V6 (M112), 4.3L V8 (M113), 5.0L V8 (M113), 2.7L Diesel (OM612), 3.2L Diesel (OM612)
Typical Hp Range:
150-300+ hp (depending on engine variant)
Typical Torque Range:
200-450+ lb-ft (depending on engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Direct Injection (DI) for later models; Diesel Common Rail Injection for diesel variants.
Oil Type:
Specific MB-approval oils (e.g., MB 229.5 for gasoline, MB 228.51 for diesel). Manual will specify exact grades and viscosities (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40).
Type:
Likely 5-speed Automatic (e.g., 5G-TRONIC 722.6) for most models. Some earlier models might have had a 4-speed automatic.
Manual Transmission:
Manual transmissions were not commonly offered in the W163 M-Class for most markets, particularly North America. The manual would cover if offered on specific regional variants.
Fluid Type:
Specific ATF fluid required (e.g., MB 236.10 or 236.14 for 722.6). Manual will detail exact specifications.
Transfer Case:
4MATIC All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system with specific service and fluid requirements.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star rating (driver and passenger) in frontal crash tests (for early models).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good rating in side-impact crash tests (for later models equipped with side airbags).
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) / Traction Control System standard on most models.
Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program) introduced during the W163 lifespan, standard on later models.
ABS:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags standard; optional side airbags for front occupants and optional third-row airbags on some models.
Seat Belts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters for front occupants, three-point belts for all seating positions.
Head Unit:
Various Mercedes-Benz Audio or COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) systems, depending on model year and options. Manual covers diagnostics and repair.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system, coverage for operation and troubleshooting.
Parking Assistance:
Optional parking sensors (Parktronic) on some models. Manual would cover their function and diagnostics.
Telematics:
Optional telematics systems (e.g., Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid) covered for service and troubleshooting.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil specification. Manual will provide exact interval and service indicator reset procedures.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Often cited as 'lifetime' by manufacturers, but recommended by many experts and in this manual to be changed every 60,000-80,000 miles for longevity, especially for the 5G-TRONIC automatic.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz approved G48 (blue ethylene glycol) coolant or equivalent, mixed at 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify exact type and change interval.
Common Problems Gasoline:
Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) issues, ignition coil failures, crank position sensor failures, ABS/ESP sensor faults, oil cooler leaks, transmission conductor plate issues (on 722.6), rust on body panels (particularly wheel arches and tailgate).
Common Problems Diesel:
Glow plug issues, injector seal leaks, turbocharger problems, EGR valve issues, DPF regeneration issues (on later models with DPF).
Common Problems General:
Window regulator failures, door lock actuator issues, climate control blower motor resistor failures, headlight leveling sensor problems.
Brand Focus:
Mercedes-Benz's entry into the burgeoning SUV market, leveraging its reputation for luxury, engineering, and safety.
Launch Year:
1997 (as a 1998 model year vehicle)
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
Facelifted in 2001 (for the 2002 model year) with revised styling, interior, and powertrain updates.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; also produced in Brazil and East Malaysia.
