The Mercedes-Benz ML-Class (W163) was a significant player in the burgeoning luxury SUV market, offering a blend of Mercedes-Benz comfort, safety, and off-road capability.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
• BMW X5
• Audi allroad quattro
• Lexus RX300
Key Features
Features:
• Available V6 and V8 engines
• Advanced safety systems
• Comfortable and spacious interior
• Permanent All-Wheel Drive (4MATIC)
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Focus:
Repair and Service
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians, Enthusiast DIYers
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
High, typically over 1500 pages for a complete set
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and body repairs.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Text-searchable (usually)
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution scans, suitable for printing
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Ml320 Engine:
3.7L M112 E37 V6 (SOHC, 18 valves)
Ml320 Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5750 rpm
Ml320 Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3000-4500 rpm
Ml350 Engine:
3.7L M112 E37 V6 (SOHC, 18 valves) - *Note: Some markets might have a 3.7L designated as ML350, others a 3.7L ML320. In North America, the ML350 was typically the 3.7L V6 for this model year.*
• Front Side-Impact Airbags (optional/standard depending on trim)
Seatbelts:
3-Point Height-Adjustable Front Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters, Rear 3-Point Seatbelts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional Bose premium sound system
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (COMAND)
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Parking Sensors:
Optional Front and Rear Parktronic
Connectivity
Tele Aid:
Optional Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid emergency communication system
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km), check manual for specifics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (MB Spec 229.5 or 229.51)
Coolant Spec:
MB Spec 325.0 (Glysantin G48 or equivalent Blue/Green Ethylene Glycol)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Plus (or DOT 4)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failures
• Cracked dashboard (due to UV exposure)
• ABS/ESP module failures
• Power steering leaks
• Sagging headliner
• Transmission conductor plate issues (less common on early 722.6 but possible)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, extending from early passenger cars to pioneering vehicles like the G-Wagen.
Model Evolution
Generation:
First Generation (W163) - Introduced in 1997 for the 1998 model year.
Facelift:
Facelifted for the 2002 model year, but the 2001 model represents the pre-facelift design.
Production
Production Years:
1997-2005 (W163)
Manufacturing Plant:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards:
While specific awards for the 2001 model are not widely documented as standalone accolades, the ML-Class as a whole established Mercedes-Benz in the luxury SUV segment and was generally well-received for its premium attributes.