Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, professional technicians.
Competitors 2010:
BMW X5, Audi Q7, Lexus RX, Acura MDX, Volvo XC90, Cadillac SRX.
Vehicle Selling Points:
Mercedes-Benz refinement, robust V6 engine, available 4MATIC all-wheel drive, luxurious interior, advanced safety features, comfortable ride.
Benefits To Owner:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to maintain their vehicle's performance, diagnose issues, and perform repairs, potentially saving significant costs on dealership services.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection, pump, injectors), exhaust system.
Engine Electronic:
Engine Control Module (ECM) diagnostics, sensors (MAP, MAF, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position, Knock), actuators (throttle body, EGR valve), ignition system (coils, spark plugs), emissions control systems.
Transmission Automatic:
722.9 (7G-TRONIC) automatic transmission: overhaul, mechatronics, torque converter, electronic control, fluid changes, filter replacement.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (4MATIC) system, transfer case, front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, axle shafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), air suspension system (AIRMATIC), leveling control, springs, anti-roll bars.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake system.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering column, steering rack, tie rods, power steering fluid.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, sunroof.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags, seat belts, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), climate control.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, system resets.
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil and filter changes, fluid checks and replacements (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, battery testing and replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all covered systems. Includes torque specifications, special tool requirements, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring diagram interpretation for electrical issues.
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing major and minor components, including engine parts, transmission components, suspension arms, brake calipers, sensors, and electronic modules.
Diagnostics And Calibration:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools, reading fault codes, clearing codes, performing system adaptations and calibrations (e.g., throttle body calibration, steering angle sensor calibration).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including intricate electronic system diagnostics and repair.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium spark plugs.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for the 7G-TRONIC transmission fluid and filter change.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 150,000 miles (240,000 km), then every 75,000 miles (120,000 km) or 5 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
MB 229.5 (Fully Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40)
Coolant Spec:
MB 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Common Problems:
M272 engine balance shaft wear (leading to rough idle, CEL), ignition coil failures, front suspension component wear (control arm bushings, ball joints), AIRMATIC suspension leaks, O2 sensor failures, potentially sticky throttle body.
Transmission Issues:
Mechatronic unit issues in the 7G-TRONIC transmission can lead to shifting problems or failure to engage gears.