Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV (Performance Variant)
Competitors:
BMW X5 M, Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Audi Q7 V12 TDI (in terms of performance SUV segment)
Performance Focus:
The ML63 AMG variant represents the pinnacle of performance within the M-Class range, featuring a handcrafted AMG engine and enhanced chassis dynamics.
Amg Heritage:
Highlights the AMG philosophy of 'Driving Performance' with specific details relevant to the specialized components and tuning of the AMG model.
Primary Coverage:
Operation, Maintenance, Specifications, Safety, Features
Secondary Coverage:
Instrument Cluster, Entertainment, Climate Control, Lighting, Driver Controls, Locks, Security, Seating, Restraints, Driving Assistance, Customer Assistance, Cleaning, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel, Air Filter, Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specs, Accessories, Service Information, Maintenance Information
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for Mercedes-Benz owner's manuals of this era)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, fuel, cooling, exhaust (as pertains to owner maintenance/understanding)
Chassis:
Brakes (basic operation, warning lights), Steering (basic operation)
Electrical:
Instrument cluster, lighting systems, infotainment, climate control, power locks, security system, battery maintenance
Body And Interior:
Seating adjustment, safety restraints, door locks, windows, mirrors, interior cleaning
Maintenance:
Fluid checks (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure monitoring, basic cleaning procedures, jump starting
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, climate control operation, infotainment system usage, lighting controls, driver assistance feature activation/deactivation
Safety Features:
Explanation of airbags, seatbelt usage, child seat installation (LATCH/ISOFIX), ABS, ESP operation
Depth:
Owner-level understanding and basic maintenance. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions. Focuses on safe operation and routine upkeep.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
6.2 Liters (6208 cc)
Horsepower:
507 hp @ 6800 rpm
Torque:
479 lb-ft (650 Nm) @ 5200 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Injection System:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 32 valves (4 per cylinder)
Bore X Stroke:
102.2 mm x 94.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.3:1
Length:
Approx. 191.4 inches (4862 mm)
Width:
Approx. 75.0 inches (1905 mm)
Height:
Approx. 72.1 inches (1831 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 5000 lbs (2268 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 6500 lbs (2948 kg)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for W164 platform, specific AMG rating not always separate)
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good (for W164 platform)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front, side, curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Child Restraints:
ISOFIX/LATCH system
Command System:
Detailed operation of the COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) infotainment system, including navigation, radio, CD/DVD player, and media interface.
Harman Kardon:
Likely includes information on the optional Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system.
Parktronic:
Operation of the parking assist system.
Distronic:
If equipped, details on the adaptive cruise control system.
Media Interface:
Information on connecting external media devices (e.g., via optional Media Interface cable).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific service indicator reset procedures.
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to the manual for 'Service A', 'Service B', and subsequent interval services which include checks of various systems, filters, spark plugs, etc.
Engine Oil Spec:
MB 229.5 (Synthetic engine oil, viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-40, consult manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) - verify with manual
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 or 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Plus (or refer to manual for MB specific approval)
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
MB 343.0 (or refer to manual for MB specific approval)
Engine M156 Common Issues:
Camshaft/lifter wear (requiring replacement of camshafts and lifters), coolant leaks from plastic components, throttle actuator issues.
Transmission Common Issues:
Torque converter issues, mechatronic unit problems (less common but possible).
Airmatic Suspension Common Issues:
While not explicitly listed in the manual's primary coverage, some W164 models with optional Airmatic have been known to experience leaks in air springs or compressor failures.
Oil Filter Example:
Example: Mann-Filter HU 718/5 y, Mercedes-Benz A 116 092 00 05 (Always verify for your specific VIN)
Air Filter Example:
Example: Mann-Filter C 30 005, Mercedes-Benz A 273 094 02 01 (Always verify for your specific VIN)
Amg History:
AMG, originally an independent engineering firm, has a long history of performance tuning Mercedes-Benz vehicles, focusing on engine power, handling, and distinctive styling.
W164 Generation:
The W164 M-Class generation (2006-2011) represented a significant step forward in comfort, technology, and on-road dynamics for Mercedes-Benz's SUV lineup. The ML63 AMG variant was introduced as the high-performance flagship.
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA