🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

G-Class

Model Variant:

G500

Year:

2004

Code:

W463

Generation Number:

2nd Generation (Pre-2007 Facelift)

👋 Introduction

Category:

Luxury SUV, Off-Road Vehicle

Target Audience:

Affluent consumers seeking robust off-road capability, luxury appointments, and a distinctive, utilitarian design.

Key Competitors 2004:

Land Rover Range Rover, Lexus LX 470, Cadillac Escalade, Toyota Land Cruiser.

Design Philosophy:

Body-on-frame construction, legendary off-road prowess, robust and utilitarian aesthetic, luxury interior.

Distinctive Attributes:

Three independently locking differentials, exceptional ground clearance, commanding road presence, long-standing heritage.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Owner's Information, Operation, Maintenance, Specifications, Safety

Specific Sections:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this model's comprehensive manual)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system basics, lubrication, battery, starting system.

Chassis:

Braking system overview, steering system overview, suspension system overview, wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Lighting system operation, instrument cluster functions, infotainment system basics, power windows, locks, mirrors, climate control system.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt operation and adjustment, child seat installation, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program).

Exterior Features:

Door operation, hood, tailgate, wipers, mirrors, lighting controls.

Interior Features:

Seat adjustment, climate control, infotainment system, instrument cluster, driver controls, lock and security features.

Routine Maintenance:

Checking engine oil level, checking coolant level, checking brake fluid level, tire pressure checks, wiper blade inspection, headlight aiming (basic adjustment guidance).

Fluid Replacement:

Engine oil and filter change procedures, coolant replacement, brake fluid flush guidance, windshield washer fluid refill.

Basic Troubleshooting:

Interpreting warning lights and indicators, basic driver assistance system explanations.

Safety Procedures:

Seat belt usage, child restraint system installation guidance, airbag system information.

Driving Techniques:

Tips for driving in various conditions, off-road driving basics (for G-wagen's capability).

Diagnostics:

Basic diagnostic information related to warning lights and indicators. Does not include detailed electronic diagnostics or repair procedures.

Repair Level:

Covers operation, maintenance, and basic adjustments. Not a comprehensive repair manual for in-depth mechanical or electrical repairs.

Maintenance Scheduling:

Provides recommended maintenance intervals based on mileage and time.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Readability:

Searchable text, high-resolution for clarity.

Compatibility:

Requires PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader) and compatible with all devices capable of reading PDF files.

Quality:

Digital reproduction of factory original, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M113 E50

Engine Type:

V8 SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 24-valve

Displacement:

4966 cc (5.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

97.0 mm x 84.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Horsepower:

292 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

336 lb-ft @ 2800-4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Sequential multiport)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Locations Covered:

Identification of major components: engine oil fill cap, dipstick, coolant reservoir, brake fluid reservoir, battery, air filter housing, washer fluid reservoir.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic

Transmission Model:

722.6 (Mercedes-Benz 5G-TRONIC)

Features:

Electronic control, adaptive shift programs, manual shifting mode (Touchshift).

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 Automatic Transmission Fluid

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 - 9.0 liters (16.9 - 19.0 US quarts) for a complete fluid change and torque converter fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4605 mm (181.3 in)

Width:

1760 mm (69.3 in)

Height:

1931 mm (76.0 in)

Wheelbase:

2850 mm (112.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2170 kg (4784 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 2870 kg (6327 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3500 kg (7716 lbs) (check local regulations and vehicle specifics)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not specifically rated for 2004 model year in common databases, but built to high Mercedes-Benz standards for the era.

IIHS Side Impact:

Not specifically rated for 2004 model year in common databases.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esp:

Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)

Airbags:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags (front).

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters for front occupants, three-point seat belts for rear occupants.

Child Seat Anchors:

ISOFIX/LATCH compatible rear seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory fitted AM/FM CD player with navigation system option.

Audio System:

Optional Bose sound system.

Climate Controls:

Automatic climate control with independent driver/passenger temperature settings.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking sensors.

Teleaid:

Optional TeleAid emergency calling system.

Instrument Cluster:

Includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, odometer, trip odometer, and various warning lamps.

Steering Wheel:

Power-assisted steering, tilt adjustment. Multifunction steering wheel for audio and climate controls (on some models).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended at 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km), depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific service intervals.

Air Filter Replacement:

Check visually at every service, replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium spark plugs.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.5 (Synthetic Engine Oil) - SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Specification:

MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 (Glysantin G05 or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0).

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, brake pads/rotors, universal joints (driveshaft), various rubber seals and hoses.

Electrical Gremlins:

Can sometimes experience minor electrical issues due to age and complexity of systems. Sensor failures are not uncommon.

Rust Potential:

While robust, older models can be susceptible to rust in certain areas, especially if used in harsh climates or off-road without proper care.

📚 Vehicle History

Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing robust and capable vehicles, dating back to the early automotive pioneers. The G-Class (W460) was originally developed as a military vehicle in the 1970s.

G Class Evolution:

The W463 generation, introduced in 1990, shifted the G-Class towards a more luxurious and civilian-oriented offering while retaining its core off-road capabilities. The G500 variant with the V8 engine became a prominent model in this generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Graz, Austria (by Magna Steyr)

Production Years W463 G500:

Approximately 1999-2007 (with various engine updates and facelifts within this period).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Acclaim:

Consistently recognized for its exceptional off-road capabilities and durability, often cited as a benchmark in its class.

Resale Value:

Historically holds strong resale value due to its durability and iconic status.

Emisiones:

Meets U.S. EPA and CARB emissions standards for the 2004 model year.