The 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML55 AMG represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the high-performance luxury SUV segment, blending utility with AMG's legendary performance tuning.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other performance-oriented SUVs of its era, offering a unique combination of brand prestige, V8 power, and AMG refinement. Its blend of luxury and sportiness differentiated it from more utilitarian SUVs.
Key Features
Key Features:
Hand-built AMG 5.4L V8 engine, enhanced AMG suspension and braking systems, unique AMG exterior styling, premium interior appointments, and the inherent versatility of the M-Class platform.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Coverage Summary:
Comprehensive coverage of 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML55 AMG features, operation, maintenance, and specifications.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Typically 300-500 pages for this era of Mercedes-Benz owner's manuals.
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Systems Covered:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving Operations, Customer Assistance, Safety Defect Reporting (US Only), Cleaning, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Accessories.
Covers essential owner-level information, focusing on operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Does not typically include detailed diagnostic or repair procedures, which are found in service manuals.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution scan of original factory manual, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Engine Displacement:
5.4 Liters (5439 cc)
Engine Code:
M113 E55
Performance
Horsepower:
349 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
376 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Engine Compartment
Engine Compartment Layout:
Longitudinal
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic
Transmission Model:
AMG SPEEDSHIFT
Features
Transmission Features:
Tighter shift points for improved acceleration, manual shifting mode.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 190.4 inches
Width:
Approx. 75.4 inches
Height:
Approx. 67.7 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 111 inches
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4900-5000 lbs
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 39.0 cu ft (rear seats up)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not rated for this specific variant and year in easily accessible public databases.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not rated for this specific variant and year in easily accessible public databases.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head airbags, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners, height-adjustable seat belts, LATCH child seat system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Factory-installed audio system (AM/FM stereo with CD player), optional navigation system.
Speaker System:
Standard premium sound system, potentially with Bose or Harmon Kardon branding.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Keyless entry, power adjustable mirrors, power windows, power locks.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to the manual for scheduled maintenance items at specific mileage intervals (e.g., 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles), which often include spark plug replacement, fluid changes, and inspection of various systems.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
Mobil 1 Synthetic 0W-40 or equivalent meeting MB 229.5 specification.
Potential issues include ABC suspension leaks (if equipped), MAF sensor failures, rattling from the catalytic converter heat shields, transmission solenoid issues, and rust on the unibody frame, especially in corrosive environments. Owner's manual helps in early detection and basic care.
Part Numbers
Engine Oil Filter Part Number:
Examples: Mann-Filter HU 719/3 X, Bosch 72061.
Air Filter Part Number:
Examples: Mann-Filter C30121/2.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz boasts a long heritage of engineering excellence, luxury, and pioneering automotive technology since its inception.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The M-Class (W163) was Mercedes-Benz's first foray into the SUV market, launched in 1997. The ML55 AMG variant, introduced in 1999, was the high-performance iteration developed by AMG.
Production
Production Years:
ML55 AMG: 1999-2003
Assembly Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
While specific awards for the 2000 ML55 AMG are less commonly cited than overall M-Class reviews, it was recognized for its performance capabilities within the SUV segment.