Market Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Porsche Panamera, Jaguar XJ
Design Philosophy:
Elegant and sophisticated design, advanced technology, supreme comfort, and powerful performance
Technological Innovations:
AIRMATIC/ABC suspension, DISTRONIC PLUS, COMAND NTG 3.5 infotainment, advanced safety systems
Manual Utility:
Provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair procedures, ensuring accurate and efficient maintenance
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Page Count Estimate:
Varies by specific volume, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive coverage
Manual Classification:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
File Format Details:
Searchable PDF, allows for quick access to information via keywords and table of contents
Print Quality:
High-resolution images, diagrams, and text for clear viewing and printing
Binding Type:
Not applicable for digital format, but original printed manuals typically feature sturdy binding for frequent use
Paper Type:
Not applicable for digital format, but original printed manuals often use durable, glossy paper
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel injection, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 7G-TRONIC), transmission control module, torque converter, driveline components (axles, driveshafts)
Braking Systems:
Brake hydraulics, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control - early W221 variants), brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
12V electrical system, charging system (alternator, battery), starter system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control module (BCM), CAN bus communication
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, Active Body Control (ABC) or AIRMATIC air suspension systems, power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment specifications
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components, refrigerant handling, climate control module
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, interior trim, seats, airbags, restraints, glass, sunroof
Infotainment Navigation:
COMAND system, radio, navigation, telephone, media interface, speaker systems
Driver Assistance:
Distronic Plus (adaptive cruise control), Parktronic (parking assist), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Night View Assist
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing, electrical system diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation, internal component repair, adjustments
Specification Data:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, diagnostic values, alignment specifications, electrical schematics
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full mechanical/electrical overhauls
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed guidance on interpreting diagnostic trouble codes and performing component-level diagnostics
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, system-specific electrical wiring diagrams with component locations and circuit descriptions
Engine Options 2009:
3.5L V6 (M272), 5.5L V8 (M273), 6.0L V12 (M275)
Engine Code V12:
M275 E60
V6 Horsepower:
268 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
V6 Torque:
258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm (approx.)
V8 Horsepower:
382 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
V8 Torque:
391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm (approx.)
V12 Horsepower:
510 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
V12 Torque:
612 lb-ft @ 1800-3500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Emission Standards:
Designed to meet EPA/CARB emission standards for the model year
Standard Transmission Type:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (older models, less common in 2009 W221 variants)
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with multiple shift modes (Comfort, Sport)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) standard, 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely received 'Good' ratings in relevant IIHS crash tests for its era
Active Safety Systems:
ABS, ESP, Brake Assist (BAS), Pre-Safe predictive occupant protection system, Traction Control
Optional Active Features:
Distronic Plus (Adaptive Cruise Control), Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Night View Assist
Passive Safety Features:
Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain, knee), crumple zones, high-strength steel chassis, seatbelt pretensioners
Airbag Locations:
Frontal, front-side, rear-side, curtain, driver's knee airbags
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) NTG 3.5
Infotainment Features:
AM/FM/HD radio, CD/DVD changer, navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Driver Assistance Suite:
Comprehensive suite including adaptive cruise control (Distronic Plus), parking assistance (Parktronic), lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive high-beam assist.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional Mercedes-Benz Media Interface for iPod/USB connectivity.
Comfort Features:
Multi-contour front seats with massage function, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, multi-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used, refer to specific manual recommendations)
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to 'Service A' and 'Service B' schedules, which occur at alternating mileage/time intervals and include more comprehensive checks and replacements (e.g., brake fluid, cabin filters, spark plugs)
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5, MB 229.51, MB 229.52 (e.g., Mobil 1 ESP 0W-40 or similar approved synthetic)
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 (Blue or Green coolant, silicate-free)
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Common Issues M272 V6:
Balance shaft wear in early M272 engines (affecting timing chain), intake manifold tumble flap actuator failure, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil cooler seals.
Common Issues W221 Suspension:
AIRMATIC strut leaks or compressor failure, ABC system hydraulic leaks and pump issues, control arm bushings wear.
Common Issues Electronics:
COMAND system glitches, E-Class specific issues like electronic parking brake faults, SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) issues.
Common Issues Brakes:
SBC system issues (on earlier W221 models, less common on 2009+), wear on brake pads and rotors due to vehicle weight.
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and pioneering automotive technology, particularly in the luxury sedan segment.
W221 Introduction Year:
2005 (as a 2006 model year vehicle)
W221 Key Advancements:
Introduction of PRE-SAFE®, DISTRONIC PLUS, AIRMATIC suspension, COMAND NTG, and significant advancements in safety and comfort.
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Sindelfingen, Germany