Positioning:
The 2004 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG represented the pinnacle of performance luxury sedans in its segment, combining a potent handcrafted V8 engine with the refined comfort and advanced technology expected of a Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Competitors:
Competed with high-performance executive sedans such as the BMW M5 (E60), Audi S6, and Cadillac CTS-V.
Performance Focus:
Hand-built AMG 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, significant horsepower and torque output for its era, performance-tuned suspension and braking systems.
Luxury Comfort:
Premium interior materials, advanced climate control, sophisticated infotainment system, spacious and comfortable cabin, AIRMATIC suspension for ride quality.
Technology:
SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control), COMAND navigation, optional driver assistance systems, advanced electronic control units (ECUs) for engine and chassis management.
Engine:
Supercharged 5.4L V8 (M113 E55 ML), Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU).
Transmission:
AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6, enhanced for AMG), Transmission operation, removal, installation, overhaul, fluid service, electronic control.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshafts, differentials, axle components, CV joints.
Brakes:
High-performance AMG braking system, ABS, ESP, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) operation and service, brake discs, pads, lines, hydraulic system, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
AMG sports suspension, AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) semi-active air suspension with adaptive damping, front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Speed-sensitive hydraulic power steering, steering column, steering gear, power steering pump, fluid specifications.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, interior trim, body hardware, rust prevention, chassis components.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting, power accessories, CAN bus communication, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control (THERMOTRONIC), HVAC system, refrigerant, A/C compressor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, climate control module.
Infotainment And Navigation:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation System), radio, CD player, navigation system, speaker system, telematics, antenna systems.
Safety And Restraint Systems:
Airbags (front, side, curtain), seatbelts, SRS system, pre-tensioners, crash sensors, ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts, fault finding for all major systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid).
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, cylinder head service, supercharger belt replacement, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, driveshaft and differential service.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Special Procedures:
SBC system bleeding and calibration, AIRMATIC system troubleshooting and component replacement, keyless-go system diagnostics, software updates and module programming.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners, critical for engine, drivetrain, suspension, and brake components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits, including power distribution, grounds, and component connections.
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts, covering from basic maintenance to complete component overhauls and complex diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Flexible Service System (ASSYST) - typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, but can vary based on driving conditions.
Major Service Interval:
Service B (typically around 20,000-30,000 miles) includes more comprehensive checks and replacements (e.g., brake fluid, cabin filter, spark plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
Mobil 1 0W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved G48 (Antifreeze/Coolant) or equivalent
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 PLUS (MB-Approval 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB-Approval 236.3 Hydraulic Fluid
Common Issue 1:
SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) pump and accumulator failure: Can lead to reduced braking performance or complete loss of braking. Requires specialized diagnostic and replacement procedures.
Common Issue 2:
AIRMATIC suspension leaks (air springs, valve blocks, compressor): Can result in uneven ride height or a sagging suspension. Requires leak detection and component replacement.
Common Issue 3:
Ignition coil failure: Can cause misfires and rough running. Usually requires replacement of affected coils.
Common Issue 4:
Supercharger belt slippage or failure: Can impact engine power and acceleration. Belt and tensioner inspection are crucial.
Common Issue 5:
Oil leaks from valve covers or oil cooler seals: Common on higher mileage V8 engines. Requires gasket replacement.
Common Issue 6:
EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve issues: Can lead to rough idle or poor performance. Cleaning or replacement may be necessary.
Manufacturer History:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and performance, dating back to the invention of the automobile by Karl Benz in 1886.
E Class Heritage:
The E-Class lineage, dating back to the 1950s (Ponton, Fintail), has always represented Mercedes-Benz's mid-size executive sedan offering, evolving through distinct generations (W110, W114/W115, W123, W124, W210, W211).
E55 Amg Evolution:
The E55 AMG variant, introduced in earlier generations (W124, W210), became a performance benchmark by integrating AMG's specialized engineering with the E-Class platform. The W211 E55 AMG, launched for the 2003 model year, marked a significant leap with its supercharged V8 engine.
Production Years:
2003-2006 (for W211 E55 AMG)
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany