Market Position:
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML550 4MATIC was positioned as a premium, mid-size luxury SUV known for its powerful V8 engine, robust 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, and high levels of comfort and refinement, competing in a segment with vehicles like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Lexus RX.
Competitive Analysis:
The ML550 4MATIC distinguished itself with its potent engine output and the sophisticated 4MATIC system, offering a blend of performance and all-weather capability. Its interior emphasized luxury materials and advanced features for its time, though some competitors offered more cutting-edge technology or a sportier driving dynamic.
Key Features:
5.5L V8 Engine, 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive, Luxurious Interior, Advanced Safety Features, Powerful Acceleration, Comfortable Ride Quality
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Coverage Areas:
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, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
Refer to original factory manual; typically 300-400 pages for this model/trim.
Systems Covered:
Powertrain (Engine, Transmission), Chassis (Suspension, Brakes, Steering), Electrical System (Lighting, Power Features, Infotainment), Climate Control System, Safety Systems (Airbags, Restraints), Security System, Driver Controls and Interfaces, Exterior and Interior Features, Maintenance Procedures, Fluid Specifications
Procedures Included:
Basic checks (fluid levels, tire pressure), operation of vehicle features, safety system usage, basic maintenance tasks (e.g., jump starting, changing wiper blades), understanding dashboard indicators, fuel requirements, cleaning and care, troubleshooting common alerts, accessing vehicle settings
Technical Depth:
Covers owner-level operation, basic maintenance, and safety information. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typically found in a service manual.
File Quality:
Digital scan of factory original, searchable text may vary based on scan quality.
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Required Software:
PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
5.5 Liters (5461 cc)
Horsepower:
382 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Electronic Sequential Fuel Injection (Bosch)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for the 2011 model year, tested under older protocols)
IIHS Ratings:
Good in front and side impact tests (for the W164 platform)
Active Features List:
4MATIC All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist
Passive Features List:
Front Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Front and Rear Side Curtain Airbags, Active Front Head Restraints, Crumple Zones, High-Strength Steel Body Structure
Optional Safety Features:
Bi-Xenon Headlights with Cornering Light Function, PARKTRONIC Parking Assist, Lane Keeping Assist (if equipped), Blind Spot Assist (if equipped)
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation EXperience) with 6.5-inch color display. Features include AM/FM radio, CD/DVD changer, auxiliary input, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional navigation system.
Audio System:
Standard sound system with 8 speakers. Optional Harman Kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound system available.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors, optional rearview camera, optional Lane Keeping Assist, optional Blind Spot Assist.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Optional Media Interface for connecting external media devices.
Service Intervals:
Based on the 'ASSYST PLUS' service system, which calculates intervals based on driving style and conditions. Typical major service intervals are around 10,000 miles or annually, with specific component checks at various mileage points as outlined in the full service manual.
Engine Oil Spec:
MB Approval 229.5 or 229.51 (e.g., Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 or 0W-40)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 Liters) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Spec:
MB Approval 236.14 (e.g., Mercedes-Benz ATF LT 71141)
Coolant Spec:
MB Approval 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Approval 331.0)
Differential Fluid Front Spec:
MB Approval 235.7 (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-85)
Differential Fluid Rear Spec:
MB Approval 235.7 (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-85)
Transfer Case Fluid Spec:
MB Approval 236.14 (or equivalent Dexron III/VI)
Known Issues:
Potential issues can include: Air suspension compressor failure (if equipped), oil leaks from valve covers or oil cooler seals, catalytic converter failure, transmission sensor issues (conductor plate), ignition coil failure, and potential rust on certain body panels over time. The manual will guide on proper care to mitigate these.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter HU832z, Mahle OX247/1D, Hengst E11H01D205
Air Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter C35176, Mahle LX1649, Hengst E2640L
Cabin Air Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter CU2940, Mahle LAK258, Hengst E2940LI
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive safety and technology, established in the late 19th century.
Model Evolution:
The 2011 M-Class is part of the second generation (W164) of the M-Class SUV, which debuted for the 2006 model year and received a mid-cycle refresh for 2009. The W164 introduced unibody construction, improved handling, and a more luxurious interior compared to its predecessor.
Production Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
Production Years For W164:
2005-2011
