Positioning:
The 2001 E55 AMG (W210) represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz's E-Class sedan performance for its era, blending luxury, comfort, and formidable V8 power. This manual targets owners and independent technicians seeking authoritative guidance for maintaining and repairing this high-performance vehicle.
Competitors Of The Era:
BMW M5 (E39), Audi S6 (C5), Jaguar S-Type R, Porsche Panamera (later competitor)
Manufacturer Focus:
Official Mercedes-Benz licensed content ensures accuracy and completeness mirroring factory service information.
User Benefit:
Provides essential information for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics to perform diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs effectively, saving time and money.
Engine:
Full Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Engine Management (ECU/DME), Lubrication System, Cooling System
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (722.6 5-Speed Gtronic), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Gearbox Overhaul, Fluid Service, Troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Rear Axle, Drive Shafts, CV Joints, Differential Service
Suspension:
Front & Rear Suspension Components, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Alignment Specifications, AMG-Specific Suspension Tuning
Brakes:
Front & Rear Brake Systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Brake Fluid Specifications, Component Replacement, Bleeding Procedures
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Gearbox, Steering Column, Tie Rods, Alignment Procedures
Electrical:
12V Battery System, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System (Starter), Lighting System, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, ECU Diagnostics, CAN Bus System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Seals, Body Repair Procedures, Rust Prevention
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning System, Climate Control, Refrigerant Service, Component Replacement
Interior:
Seats, Upholstery, Interior Trim, Dashboard Components, Airbags, Seatbelts
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fault Code Interpretation, Electrical Diagnosis
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuild Procedures, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Repair
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnostics, STAR DIAGNOSIS (SDS) System Integration, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, complex repairs, and complete component overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and assembly procedures.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
5-Star (for W210 E-Class, specific AMG ratings may vary)
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Skid Control)
Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Airbags:
Frontal Airbags, Side Airbags (front and rear optional), Window Airbags (optional)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning Seatbelts with Force Limiters
Head Restraints:
Active Head Restraints (Neck-Pro)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Consult manual for precise intervals based on driving conditions.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to the manual for specific mileage-based major service intervals (e.g., 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles) which include spark plug replacement, coolant flush, and transmission fluid service.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (MB Approval 229.5)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (9.0 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or equivalent), mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Specification 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (MB Specification 331.0)
Common Problems:
Spark plug well sealing (oil leaks), Crankshaft position sensor failure, Biodegradable wiring harness insulation (older models), Transmission conductor plate issues, Suspension component wear (e.g., bushings, ball joints), ABC suspension issues (if equipped, though less common on standard E55 AMG of this year, it was an option).
Mercedes Benz Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and performance, particularly with its AMG division.
W210 Generation:
The W210 generation (1995-2002) marked a significant design shift for the E-Class, moving towards a more rounded and aerodynamic look compared to its predecessor. The E55 AMG variant was introduced to offer a potent, yet refined, performance sedan.
Production Years:
W210 E55 AMG produced from 1999 to 2002. The 2001 model year falls within this range.
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany