Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Crossover/SUV
Target Audience Manual:
Mercedes-Benz R-Class (W251) owners, independent repair shops, automotive technicians.
Unique Selling Proposition:
The R-Class offered a unique blend of luxury, space, and comfort, positioned as a versatile family vehicle.
Manual Advantage:
Provides dealership-level, specific repair information, offering a significant advantage over generic repair guides.
Ease Of Use:
Single PDF manual, no need to flip through multiple books; printable pages for workshop use.
Information Organization:
Comprehensive coverage of all systems and repairs, facilitating efficient troubleshooting and repair.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, lubrication, cooling, intake and exhaust, emission control, ignition, starting and charging systems.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission, manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shafts, differentials, axles.
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Suspension system, steering column, power steering, brake control systems, hydraulic brakes, parking brake, tire and wheel assembly.
Electrical Electronics:
Complete electrical system, wiring schematics, multiplex/CAN communication, engine control system, instrument panel, lighting, audio/visual systems, horn, wipers and washers, door locks, engine immobilizer, cruise control.
Comfort Convenience:
Air conditioning system, supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belts, seats, exterior and interior body panels, engine hood, glass and mirrors.
Body And Chassis:
Covers exterior panels, interior trim, body sealing, chassis components, and structural elements.
Supplemental Restraint System:
Detailed instructions for SRS system components, diagnostics, and safety precautions for working with airbags.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all covered systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic routines for various systems.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting of the vehicle's electrical network, including wiring diagrams for all circuits and components.
Air Conditioning Service:
Procedures for refrigerant handling, system charging, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), and leak detection.
Engine Rebuilding:
Includes detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications and clearances.
Suspension Repair:
Covers replacement of control arms, ball joints, bushings, struts, shocks, and components related to the Airmatic suspension system.
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Visual Aids:
Diagrams, illustrations, and detailed wiring schematics included for clarity.
Special Tools:
Likely lists specific Mercedes-Benz factory tools required for certain repair procedures.
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader (free download)
File Size:
Not specified, but expect a substantial file size due to the comprehensive nature of the manual.
Printability:
Yes (All pages printable, zoomable images)
Binding Type:
Digital (No physical binding)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Operating Systems:
Windows Vista (32/64-bit), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac compatible.
Engine Options:
The R-Class (W251) was offered with several gasoline and diesel engines. Common variants include: R350 (3.5L V6 M272), R500 (5.0L V8 M113), R320 CDI (3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel OM642). The manual is expected to cover all these variations.
Performance Details:
The manual will provide specifications for horsepower, torque, engine RPM ranges, and performance tuning parameters.
Fuel System Type:
Typically multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or direct injection (CGI for later models), with detailed specifications for fuel pressure, injector flow rates, and fuel pump operation.
Oil Specifications:
Detailed specifications for engine oil viscosity grades (e.g., SAE 0W-40, 5W-40 for diesel) and Mercedes-Benz approved oil specifications (e.g., MB-Approval 229.5, 229.51) for different engine types and service intervals.
Coolant Specifications:
Information on coolant type (e.g., G05 or similar silicate-free antifreeze), mixture ratios, and coolant capacity.
Emission Systems:
Information on catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and particulate filters (for diesel models).
Standard Transmission Type:
All R-Class W251 models typically came equipped with an automatic transmission.
Optional Transmission Type:
N/A (All automatics for this generation and model)
Automatic Transmission Models:
Primarily the 7G-Tronic (722.9) 7-speed automatic transmission, and potentially the 5G-Tronic (722.6) in earlier models.
Transmission Fluid Specs:
Specific Mercedes-Benz approved transmission fluid specifications (e.g., ATF MB 236.10, 236.12, 236.14) and fluid capacities for each transmission type.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 3,215 mm (126.6 inches) for the long wheelbase version, and 2,909 mm (114.5 inches) for the standard wheelbase version.
Overall Length:
Varies by wheelbase, but significantly longer than traditional SUVs due to its unique platform.
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and configuration, typically ranging from approximately 2,050 kg to 2,300 kg (4,500 to 5,100 lbs).
Infotainment System:
Features like COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display), radio, CD/DVD player, and harman/kardon sound systems. Manual will cover system diagnostics and repair.
Driver Assistance Features:
Includes optional features like DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control), PARKTRONIC, and lane keeping assist. The manual will detail the operation and maintenance of these systems.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth connectivity, auxiliary audio input, and potentially a telematics system (e.g., Tele Aid).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 to 15,000 miles (16,000 to 24,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used. The manual will specify exact intervals.
Transmission Service Interval:
Often around 50,000 to 80,000 miles (80,000 to 130,000 km) for fluid and filter changes, especially for the 7G-Tronic. Manual will provide precise guidance.
Brake Fluid Spec:
Typically DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0) brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Specific hydraulic fluid as per Mercedes-Benz specifications, often a Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent.
Coolant Capacity:
Specific coolant capacity for each engine variant will be detailed in the manual.
Common R Class Issues:
The manual will likely address common W251 issues such as potential intake manifold problems (M272 engine), Airmatic suspension issues (air leaks, compressor failures), electronic module failures, and potential diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues on CDI models.
