Segment:
Mid-size Luxury Performance Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 540i/M5 (E39), Audi A6 4.2 quattro, Lexus GS 430.
Performance Focus:
Hand-built AMG V8 engine, sport-tuned suspension, enhanced braking system.
Luxury Appointments:
Premium interior materials, advanced comfort features, refined ride quality.
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanation of engine functions and warnings.
Instrument Cluster:
Explanation of all gauges, warning lights, and indicators.
Entertainment Systems:
Operation of audio system, CD changer (if equipped), and antenna.
Climate Controls:
Operation of THERMATIC (automatic climate control) or THERMATIC dual-zone climate control.
Lighting Systems:
Operation of headlights (including Bi-Xenon if equipped), fog lights, interior lighting, and ambient lighting.
Driver Controls:
Explanation of steering wheel controls, turn signals, wipers, cruise control, and parking brake.
Locks And Security:
Operation of central locking, remote keyless entry, immobilizer, and alarm system.
Seating And Restraints:
Adjustment of front and rear seats, seat belts, front airbags, side airbags, and optional head curtain airbags.
Driving Operations:
Guidance on starting, shifting, braking, and general driving advice.
Customer Assistance:
Information on contacting Mercedes-Benz customer support and roadside assistance.
Safety Defect Reporting:
U.S.-specific procedures for reporting safety defects.
Cleaning And Care:
Recommendations for cleaning the interior and exterior of the vehicle.
Maintenance Information:
General overview of recommended maintenance.
Engine Compartment Overview:
Identification of key components in the engine bay.
Engine Oil Information:
Recommended oil type, viscosity, and checking procedure.
Battery Maintenance:
Information on battery care and location.
Fuel Information:
Recommended fuel octane rating and filling procedures.
Air Filter Information:
Location and general care of air filters.
Part Numbers:
Likely to include part numbers for common maintenance items like filters and fluids.
Refill Capacities:
Capacities for engine oil, coolant, washer fluid, and fuel tank.
Lubricant Specifications:
Specific lubricant requirements for various components.
Accessories:
Information on optional accessories and their use.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, wiper blade condition.
Safety Features Operation:
How to properly use seat belts, airbags, and child restraint systems.
Routine Checks:
Daily or weekly checks recommended by the manufacturer.
Depth:
Owner-level information, focusing on operation, basic checks, and maintenance, not in-depth repair procedures.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars (for driver and passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Skid Control)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional head curtain airbags (windowbags).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used).
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to the 'Assyst' service indicator on the instrument cluster, typically around 30,000-50,000 miles for more comprehensive checks.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 approved synthetic engine oil (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-40).
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 or 326.0 approved coolant (typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water).
Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.10 approved ATF for 5-speed automatic transmission.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0 or equivalent)
Common Concerns:
PCV valve failure (leading to oil leaks), aging plastic/rubber components (e.g., intake manifolds, hoses), OVP relay issues, fuel distributor leaks, rust on fenders and rocker panels, electronic module failures (e.g., EIS, TCU).
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter HU719/9x, Mahle OX165/1d (confirm with specific VIN).
Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter C30142/1, Mahle LX943/1 (confirm with specific VIN).
