🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

M-Class

Generation Code:

W163

Model Year:

2001

Generation Years:

1997-2005

Chassis Code:

W163

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W163) owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts.

Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level diagnostic, maintenance, and repair information, enabling cost savings and empowering users to maintain their vehicles effectively.

Advantage Over Generic Guides:

Vehicle-specific, not generic. Utilizes exact information used by factory technicians.

Content Format:

Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, specifications.

Usability:

Easy-to-use PDF format, printable pages, zoomable images.

Completeness:

Comprehensive A-Z coverage for all models and all repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All Models and All Repairs A-Z

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust, Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case, Drivetrain, Axles, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Supplemental Restraint System, Body Electrical, Interior, Exterior, Diagnostics, Wiring Schematics

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, described as comprehensive enough for all repairs A-Z)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control system, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and repair, timing belt/chain procedures (if applicable), component testing and replacement.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission service and repair, manual transmission service and repair (if applicable), transfer case operation and repair, drive shaft and axle maintenance and repair, differential service, wheel bearing replacement.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component diagnosis and replacement, shock absorber/strut service, steering column repair, power steering system service, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic component replacement (master cylinder, calipers, lines), brake pad and rotor replacement, parking brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair.

Electrical Electronics:

Complete wiring schematics, lighting systems, power windows, power locks, instrument cluster, audio systems, horns, wipers and washers, cruise control, engine immobilizer, multiplex/CAN communication systems, supplemental restraint system (SRS) components and diagnostics.

Body Interior Exterior:

Door lock mechanisms, seat adjustments and repair, engine hood and door operation, windshield/glass replacement, mirror service, instrument panel removal and installation, exterior and interior trim component service.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), scheduled maintenance intervals, lubrication procedures, component inspection.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic fault codes (DTCs) interpretation, step-by-step diagnostic routines for various systems, component testing procedures.

Repair Procedures:

Complete step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor vehicle components, component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly procedures, torque specifications for critical fasteners.

Technical Specifications:

Detailed specifications for all systems, including engine data, transmission gear ratios, brake component specifications, suspension geometry, electrical system voltages, fluid capacities and types, tire and wheel specifications.

Depth:

Factory level detail, equivalent to what dealership technicians use. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content within the PDF

Printable:

Yes, all pages are printable.

Image Scalability:

Images can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies.

Binding:

Digital (PDF) - No physical binding. Users print specific pages as needed.

Paper Type Recommendation:

User dependent (for printed pages)

Reader:

Adobe PDF Reader (free)

Compression:

Winzip (or equivalent unzipping software, free)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2001:

Likely includes ML320 (3.7L V6 M112 E37), ML350 (3.7L V6 M112 E37 - in some markets, or a transition from ML320), ML500 (5.0L V8 M113 E50), ML55 AMG (5.4L V8 M113 E55).

Ml320 Horsepower Approx:

215 hp @ 5500 rpm

Ml320 Torque Approx:

229 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Ml500 Horsepower Approx:

292 hp @ 5500 rpm

Ml500 Torque Approx:

335 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Ml55 Amg Horsepower:

342 hp @ 5500 rpm

Ml55 Amg Torque:

376 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz specifications (e.g., MB 325.0 or similar coolant)

Engine Oil Spec:

MB 229.3 or MB 229.5 (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 depending on climate and specific engine)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Ml320:

5-speed Automatic (722.6 series)

Transmission Type Ml500 Ml55:

5-speed Automatic (722.6 series)

Optional Transmission:

None typically offered for this model year in North America; primarily 5-speed auto.

Transmission Features:

Touchshift (manual selection of gears), electronic control unit (ECU) managed for optimal performance and economy.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (e.g., ATF 4/5 Speed Transmission Fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 180.5 inches (4585 mm)

Width:

Approx. 71.8 inches (1824 mm)

Height:

Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 111.0 inches (2820 mm)

Curb Weight Ml320:

Approx. 4300 lbs (1950 kg)

Curb Weight Ml500:

Approx. 4500 lbs (2041 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) with optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Five Stars (for driver and front passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

Four Stars (for front and rear passengers)

Active Safety Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Traction Control System (TCS).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side airbags (front), optional curtain airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cabin.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Features:

AM/FM stereo, CD player (optional cassette), navigation system (optional), Bose premium sound system (optional).

Driver Assistance Features Available:

Parktronic parking assist (optional), cruise control.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; typically features for phone integration via optional systems or aftermarket solutions. No integrated Bluetooth or USB as standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Typical:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement Typical:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Typical:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement Typical:

For M112 V6 engines: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium plugs. For M113 V8 engines: 75,000 miles (120,000 km) with iridium plugs.

Coolant Capacity Ml320:

Approx. 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check owner's manual for specific requirement)

Common W163 Issues Potential:

Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil failures, transmission control module (TCM) failures, ABS/ESP sensor problems, rust in wheel wells and door sills, cooling system leaks (especially lower radiator hose).

Common W163 Issues Potential 2:

Power steering leaks, headlight condensation, tailgate struts, interior electrical gremlins, door lock actuator failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Establishment:

Founded in 1886 by Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler, a pioneer in automobile manufacturing.

W163 Introduction:

The first generation M-Class (W163) was introduced in 1997 as Mercedes-Benz's entry into the luxury SUV market.

W163 Facelift:

Received a significant facelift for the 2002 model year, with minor updates for 2001 model year leading into it.

Production Location:

Initially manufactured in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA, to meet demand and utilize North American production capabilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:

1998 MotorTrend SUV of the Year (for the first generation M-Class).

Road And Track Awards:

Often recognized for its blend of comfort, luxury, and off-road capability in its segment at the time of its release.