Market Position:
The 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W164) positioned as a premium mid-size luxury SUV, competing with vehicles like the BMW X5, Lexus RX, and Audi Q7. Targeted affluent buyers seeking comfort, luxury, performance, and off-road capability in an SUV package.
Competitive Analysis:
The W164 M-Class offered a refined driving experience, advanced technology, and the prestige associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand. Its interior quality and comfort were generally considered superior to many competitors, while its performance, particularly with the V8 engine in the ML500, was a strong selling point.
Key Features:
Available 4MATIC all-wheel drive, luxurious interior, advanced safety features, powerful engine options, improved ride comfort and handling compared to the previous generation (W163).
Coverage Areas:
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
Page Count:
Not specified in product information, typical for this model year is 300-400 pages.
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Systems Covered:
Powertrain (Engine, Transmission), Chassis (Suspension, Brakes, Steering), Electrical System, Climate Control, Infotainment, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Lighting, Security, Body and Interior.
Procedures Included:
Basic checks (oil, coolant, tire pressure), fluid top-offs, fuse replacement, bulb replacement, information on operating various vehicle systems, basic troubleshooting, maintenance scheduling, safety restraint usage, security system operation.
Technical Depth:
Owner-level information focusing on operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not cover in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in a Service Manual.
Length:
188.2 inches (4780 mm)
Width:
74.7 inches (1897 mm)
Height:
70.7 inches (1796 mm)
Wheelbase:
114.7 inches (2915 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 105 cu ft (2973 L)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
37.1 cu ft (1050 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
72.4 cu ft (2050 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4740 lbs (2150 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 6400 lbs (2900 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) with optional trailer hitch
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
5-Star
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good
IIHS Side Crash Test:
Good
Active Features:
4-wheel Electronic Traction System (4-ETS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Passive Features:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags, active front head restraints, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation EXpert) with CD player, radio, navigation system, and optional auxiliary inputs or changer. Features include a color display and intuitive controls.
Driver Assistance:
Parktronic parking assist, adaptive cruise control (DISTRONIC - optional), bi-xenon headlamps with cornering illumination.
Connectivity:
Pre-wiring for cellular phone with Bluetooth interface (optional), UHI connector.
Climate Controls:
Dual-zone automatic climate control with adjustable fan speed, temperature, and airflow distribution. Rear climate control vents.
Service Interval General:
Follow the flexible service system (ASSYST PLUS) indicated by the instrument cluster. Typically, oil changes every 10,000 miles or annually, with major services at prescribed intervals (e.g., 30,000, 60,000 miles) covering filters, spark plugs, and fluid checks.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 (Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters)
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 / MB 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue or Green)
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.14 (7-speed automatic transmission fluid - ATF)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Differential Fluid Specification:
MB 235.7 (Hypoid gear oil, API GL-5)
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
MB 236.3 (Hydraulic fluid)
Known Issues:
Potential issues include early model year air suspension component failures (if equipped), electronic module glitches, and occasional transmission control unit issues. Check for specific model year service bulletins.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann Filter HU 719/6X, Mahle KL 249/4, Mercedes-Benz A 000 180 26 09
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann Filter C 35120, Mahle LX 1024, Mercedes-Benz A 271 094 01 04
Refill Capacities:
Refer to manual for specific capacities for engine oil, coolant, washer fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and differential fluid.
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, a globally recognized luxury automotive brand, has a rich history dating back to the invention of the automobile in the late 19th century. Known for engineering excellence, innovation, and luxury.
Model Evolution:
The W164 M-Class, introduced for the 2006 model year, represented a significant redesign from its predecessor (W163). It featured a more car-like unibody construction, improved aerodynamics, enhanced interior luxury, and a wider range of advanced technologies, setting a new standard for the model.
Production Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
Production Years W164:
2005-2011
