🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

M-Class

Year:

2011

Chassis Code:

W164

Market Segment:

Mid-size Luxury SUV

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W164 generation) was positioned as a premium mid-size luxury SUV, competing with vehicles like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, Lexus RX, and Cadillac SRX.

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and advanced automotive technology, which is reflected in the M-Class.

Key Features:

This manual covers a vehicle known for its comfortable ride, sophisticated interior, powerful engine options, and advanced safety features for its time. Key technologies include the COMAND infotainment system and various electronic driver aids.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All aspects of vehicle operation, safety, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

Page Count:

Estimated 400-500 pages (typical for a full owner's manual of this era/class, actual number may vary based on specific model configurations).

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, transmission, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical system (lighting, charging, starting), climate control, infotainment (audio, navigation, phone), safety systems (airbags, seat belts, ABS, ESP), driver assistance systems, body and interior features, wheels and tires.

Procedures Included:

Pre-driving checks, adjusting seats and steering wheel, using climate control, operating infotainment and communication systems, understanding dashboard indicators and warning lights, basic troubleshooting for common issues, emergency procedures (tire change, jump-starting, towing), vehicle appearance and care (washing, waxing, interior cleaning).

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive user-level information. Covers operation, feature usage, and basic maintenance. Does not delve into in-depth diagnostic procedures or component-level repairs typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely fully searchable if OCR'd correctly.

Printability:

Printable, allowing for physical copies.

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Offered Usdm:

3.5L V6 (M272 E35)

Horsepower V6:

268 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque V6:

258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm

Engine Options:

ML350 (3.5L V6), ML550 (5.5L V8), ML63 AMG (6.2L V8 - naturally aspirated)

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Code V6:

M272

Engine Code V8:

M273 (5.5L), M156 (6.2L AMG)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Drivetrain:

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Standard Transmission:

7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS)

Transmission Features:

TouchShift manual shift control, adaptive transmission logic.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approx. 188.5 inches (4788 mm)

Exterior Width:

Approx. 75.2 inches (1910 mm)

Exterior Height:

Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 114.7 inches (2915 mm)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 72.4 cubic feet (2050 liters)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 38.5 cubic feet (1089 liters)

Curb Weight Ml350:

Approx. 4600-4700 lbs (2087-2132 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Rollover Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for models with optional side-impact airbags, often standard on higher trims)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS), Hill Start Assist.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), active front head restraints, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.

Driver Assistance Options:

Optional: Parktronic, DISTRONIC cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation System) with a central color display.

Audio Features:

AM/FM radio, CD/DVD player, MP3 capability, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth hands-free calling, optional USB interface for iPod and other devices.

Driver Assistance Systems:

Features like the aforementioned DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control), Parktronic parking assist, and optional rearview camera enhance driver convenience and safety.

Other Technology:

Keyless-Go (optional push-button start), power liftgate, automatic climate control, bi-xenon headlamps with cornering function.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable, typically based on Mercedes-Benz Flexible Service System (ASSYST PLUS), often around 10,000 miles or 12 months.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Recommended replacement around 40,000-60,000 miles, though some sources suggest longer intervals for lifetime fluid.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Engine Oil Spec Ml350:

MB Approval 229.5 or 229.51, SAE 0W-30, 0W-40, or 5W-40 synthetic.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

MB Approval 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC).

Coolant Spec:

MB Approval 325.0 or 326.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, blue or green).

Known Issues Common:

Potential for M272 V6 engine balance shaft wear (leading to check engine light, rough idle), oil cooler seal leaks, ABS/ESP module failures, rear air suspension issues (if equipped), starter motor issues.

Known Issues Common Transmission:

Solenoid issues in the 7G-TRONIC, particularly with rough shifting or engagement problems.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Commonly 271-184-00-25 or similar depending on engine (refer to manual for exact fitment).

📚 Vehicle History

W164 Generation Years:

2006-2011

Mid Cycle Refresh:

Facelifted for the 2009 model year, introducing updated styling, new engine options, and enhanced technology.

Production Locations:

Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA (North American market production); Rastatt, Germany (European market production).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award Example 2011:

Often received good reviews for its comfortable ride and refined interior. Competitors like the BMW X5 and Lexus RX frequently appeared on 'best of' lists. Specific awards for the 2011 model may vary.

Consumers Reports Rating:

Consumer Reports ratings for the 2011 M-Class were generally average to above average, with strengths in ride comfort and performance, but some concerns over predicted reliability in certain areas (e.g., electronics).