🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

E-Class

Model Variant:

E500 4MATIC

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

W211

Generation Code:

Second Generation (W211)

Engine Code:

M273 (Note: Often referred to as M113.968 for the 5.0L V8 in earlier W211 E500 models, but the 2004 E500 4MATIC would likely have the updated M273.961 or similar variant)

Transmission Code:

722.6 (5G-TRONIC)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan

Segment Ranking:

Positioned as a premium offering in the luxury segment, competing with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6.

Key Competitors:

BMW 5 Series (E60), Audi A6 (C6), Lexus GS (S190), Cadillac STS, Lincoln LS.

Differentiators:

Mercedes-Benz's renowned build quality, comfort, advanced safety features for its time, and the availability of the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

Target Audience:

Affluent individuals and families seeking a blend of luxury, performance, technology, and brand prestige.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Operation, maintenance, safety, and basic troubleshooting for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz E500 4MATIC.

Specific Topics:

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.

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a comprehensive owner's manual of this era).

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF (Instant Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Basic information on engine operation, fuel requirements, and fluid capacities. Detailed engine mechanicals and diagnostics are typically in a separate Service Manual.

Chassis:

Information on brakes, steering, and suspension operation, along with tire pressure recommendations and wheel/tire specifications.

Electrical:

Details on the instrument cluster, lighting controls, infotainment system basics, and power accessories. Complex wiring diagrams are found in Service Manuals.

Interior:

Coverage of climate controls, seating adjustments, safety restraints, locks, security systems, and entertainment features.

Safety Systems:

Extensive coverage of airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and child seat installation guidelines.

Routine Maintenance:

Guidance on checking and topping up fluids (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, and basic cleaning procedures.

Basic Troubleshooting:

Information on warning lights, dashboard indicators, and basic actions to take for common minor issues.

Driving Techniques:

Tips on efficient driving, using cruise control, and understanding the vehicle's dynamics.

Security Operations:

Instructions for using the remote locking system, anti-theft alarm, and keyless entry (if equipped).

Depth Level:

Owner-oriented. Focuses on safe and proper operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features and controls. Does not provide detailed repair procedures or diagnostic steps.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text due to PDF format, allowing users to find specific information quickly.

Compatibility:

Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (PCs, Macs, tablets, smartphones) using software like Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader, or built-in PDF viewers.

Quality:

Digital rendition of factory original. Image quality may vary slightly from original print, but content is identical. Assumed high resolution for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

4966 cc (5.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

97.0 mm x 84.0 mm (typical for M273 or similar).

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1 (typical for M273).

Valvetrain:

SOHC with 3 valves per cylinder and Twin Spark ignition (early M113) or DOHC with 4 valves per cylinder and Variable Valve Timing (M273).

Horsepower:

302 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

339 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Emissions Control:

Catalytic converters, Oxygen sensors, Secondary air injection system (depending on market).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 5G-TRONIC)

Drive System:

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive

Shift Modes:

Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes.

Overdrive:

Yes

Fluid Type:

MB Specification 236.14 (or equivalent for 5G-TRONIC)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

190.6 inches (4841 mm)

Width:

71.7 inches (1821 mm)

Height:

57.4 inches (1458 mm)

Wheelbase:

112.4 inches (2855 mm)

Front Track:

61.4 inches (1560 mm)

Rear Track:

61.1 inches (1552 mm)

Front Headroom:

37.5 inches (953 mm)

Rear Headroom:

37.2 inches (945 mm)

Front Legroom:

41.7 inches (1059 mm)

Rear Legroom:

35.3 inches (897 mm)

Shoulder Room Front:

56.3 inches (1430 mm)

Shoulder Room Rear:

55.3 inches (1405 mm)

Trunk Volume:

15.9 cubic feet (450 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3800-3900 lbs (1724-1769 kg) depending on options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 5000 lbs (2268 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Typically not specified or very limited for E-Class sedan.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars (Driver), 5 Stars (Passenger) for 2004 model.

NHTSA Side Impact:

5 Stars (Front), 5 Stars (Rear) for 2004 model.

IIHS Front Crash:

Good

IIHS Side Crash:

Good

IIHS Rear Crash:

Good

Traction Control:

ASR (Acceleration Skid Control)

Stability Control:

ESP (Electronic Stability Program)

Braking System:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with Brake Assist (BAS)

Drivetrain:

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side airbags, window curtain airbags (standard on most models).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pretensioners and belt force limiters. Rear seatbelt reminders.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

Head Restraints:

Active front head restraints (NECK-PRO) to reduce whiplash injuries in rear impacts.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with CD player, Radio, and optional Navigation system. May have integrated phone functionality.

Audio System:

Standard premium audio system, potentially Harman Kardon branded.

Display:

Central color display on the dashboard for COMAND, climate, and vehicle settings.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control, possibly with DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control) as an option.

Parking Assistance:

Optional Parktronic parking sensors (front and rear).

Lighting Features:

Automatic headlights, Xenon headlights with cornering function (optional), power-adjustable headlights.

Phone Integration:

Factory-installed hands-free communication system, often with a cradle for specific phone models.

Remote Functions:

Remote key fob for locking/unlocking, trunk release. Possibly an infrared key for some functions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (based on 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicators). Check the specific service message on the instrument cluster.

Major Service Intervals:

Major services ('Service B', etc.) are indicated by the car's maintenance system and usually involve more extensive checks and fluid changes (e.g., transmission fluid, brake fluid).

Engine Oil Specification:

MB Approval 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 - 8.5 liters (8.5 - 9.0 US quarts) depending on engine variant. Check manual for exact capacity.

Coolant Type:

MB Specification 325.0 or 326.0 (Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid:

MB Specification 343.0 (Hydraulic Fluid)

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Specification 236.14 (for 5G-TRONIC)

Common Wear Items:

Intake manifold flaps (prone to failure, causing CEL), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) module issues, SAM module (Signal Acquisition Module) corrosion, cooling system leaks (especially plastic components), Airmatic suspension issues (if equipped, though E500 4MATIC might have standard suspension), crankshaft position sensor failure.

Common Electrical:

Door module issues, COMAND system glitches, tailgate latch problems.

Routine Maintenance Focus:

Importance of using correct MB-spec fluids, timely replacement of spark plugs (e.g., 100,000 miles), and regular checks of the cooling system and air filters.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long and storied history dating back to the invention of the automobile, known for engineering excellence, luxury, and innovation.

E Class Lineage:

The E-Class lineage traces back to the Mercedes-Benz W120 'Ponton' and subsequent models like the W114/W115 'Stroke Eight', W123, W124, and W210. The W211 generation marked a significant technological leap with improved aerodynamics, safety, and luxury amenities.

W211 Introduction:

The W211 E-Class was introduced in 2002 for the 2003 model year, replacing the W210. The 2004 model year saw the introduction of the E500 4MATIC, offering enhanced traction and stability.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen), but also South Africa and other locations for global markets.

Production Years W211:

2002-2009 (for the W211 generation).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Consistently received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, reflecting Mercedes-Benz's focus on safety engineering.

Design Awards:

While specific awards for the 2004 model might be hard to pinpoint, the W211 generation was recognized for its sophisticated and timeless design language.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports generally rated the W211 E-Class as 'Average' to 'Above Average' for reliability in its later years, though early models had some reported issues.