🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: G-Class Chassis Code: W463 Year: 1996 Generation W463 Generation Start Year: 1990 W463 Generation End Year: 2018 Codes W463 Chassis Designation: Geländewagen 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Luxury SUV / Off-Road Vehicle Target Audience: Owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance, repair, and customization of their G-Class Competitive Analysis Competitive Set 1996: Land Rover Discovery, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Land Cruiser Key Features Manual Advantage: Vehicle-specific, dealership-level technical data, eliminating generic repair information User Experience: Easy-to-use PDF format, printable pages, searchable content, no physical wear and tear Content Richness: Diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and comprehensive specifications 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: All Models & All Repairs A-Z Specific Model Coverage: 1996 Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W463) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (Implied, specific number not provided) Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Management: Engine, Control System, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging Drivetrain: Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension Chassis And Brakes: Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering Electrical And Body: Electrical, Air Condition, Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/ Door, Exterior & Interior, Multiplex/ Can Communication Procedures Included Maintenance And Servicing: Complete step-by-step instructions for maintenance, service, and diagnosis Repair And Rebuild: Comprehensive repair procedures for all covered systems, from minor adjustments to major overhauls Diagnostics: Diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving issues across all vehicle systems Technical Depth Depth: Factory highly detailed, exact same manual used by dealership technicians 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Windows Vista (32/64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac Software Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free online) Print Quality Printability: All pages printable, with ability to blow-up images for enlarged copies Binding Type Binding: Digital (PDF) Paper Type Paper Type Digital: N/A (Digital format, but printable on any paper type) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options 1996: Likely G 320 (M104 inline-6), G 300 Turbo Diesel (OM603 inline-5 turbo diesel), G 300 Diesel (OM603 inline-5 diesel), G 500 (M119 V8) - Manual will cover specific powertrains available in 1996 Performance Horsepower Torque General: Varies by engine; M104 approx. 208 hp, OM603 approx. 113 hp (turbo), M119 approx. 322 hp. Manual provides exact figures and performance data. Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic or similar electronic injection depending on engine variant) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (for petrol engines), Diesel fuel (for diesel engines) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 4-speed automatic (common for many W463 models) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 5-speed manual (less common, but available on some variants) Features Drivetrain Layout: 4x4 Permanent (Four-wheel drive) Transfer Case: Two-speed transfer case with locking differentials (center, front, rear options) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Mm: 2850 (for standard wheelbase, specific variants may differ) Overall Length Mm: 4215 (for standard wheelbase, specific variants may differ) Overall Width Mm: 1760 (excluding mirrors) Overall Height Mm: 1931 Weights Curb Weight Kg: Approx. 2000-2300 kg (varies significantly by engine and equipment) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg: Typically around 2800-3000 kg 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Results General: Limited comprehensive official crash test data available for this era's specific W463 models in standardized formats like NHTSA/Euro NCAP. The vehicle's robust construction is a key safety feature. Active Features Traction Control: Available on some models/trims as ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) Antilock Brakes: Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger airbags (standard on most 1996 models) Body Construction: Heavy-duty, ladder frame chassis and steel body for exceptional durability and off-road capability. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory premium audio systems with AM/FM radio, cassette player, and optional CD changer. Manual covers head unit operation and basic troubleshooting. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Factory installed cruise control system (covered in manual). Connectivity Multiplex Communication: Manual includes details on multiplex wiring and CAN communication protocols for diagnosed modules. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (or annually), check manual for specific engine/oil type Major Service Interval: Refer to manual for specific mileage-based major service checks (e.g., 30,000, 60,000 miles). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: API SG/SH or higher, viscosity typically 0W-30, 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on climate and engine (refer to manual for precise MB-Spec). Coolant Specification: Mercedes-Benz approved G 05 or G 06 coolant (silicate-free ethylene glycol based) Brake Fluid Specification: DOT 4 or DOT 3 brake fluid Transmission Fluid Specification: MB-Approval 236.x (e.g., 236.1 for older automatics). Manual specifies exact fluid. Known Issues Common Wear Items: Rust on body panels (especially around wheel arches, sills), aging rubber seals and...