🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: M-Class Model Variant: ML320, ML430, ML55 AMG Year: 2000 Codes Chassis Code: W163 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Luxury Mid-Size SUV / SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) Introduction Year: 1997 (for the W163 generation) Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: BMW X5 (E53), Lexus RX300, Volvo XC90, Land Rover Discovery. Key Features Brand Prestige: Represents Mercedes-Benz's entry into the premium SUV market, emphasizing luxury, comfort, and advanced engineering. Drivetrain: Standard 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system (except potentially early ML320 models in some markets, though 4MATIC became standard early on). Suspension: Independent suspension on all wheels, offering a refined ride quality compared to many body-on-frame SUVs of the era. Interior Comfort: High-quality materials, spacious cabin, comfortable seating, and advanced features for its time. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Owner's Operations and Information Specific Models Covered: ML320, ML430, ML55 AMG (W163 Chassis) Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 350-450 pages (typical for this era of Mercedes-Benz owner's manuals) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual / Operator's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed Book 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain Operation: Engine start/stop, driving modes, transmission operation, fuel system overview. Chassis And Suspension: 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), suspension system basics. Electrical System: Lighting controls, instrument cluster functions, interior and exterior lighting, power accessories (windows, mirrors, seats), fuse box locations and identification. Comfort And Convenience: Climate control system (manual and automatic), seat adjustments, door locks, remote keyless entry, power liftgate (if equipped). Infotainment: Audio system operation (radio, CD player), navigation system basics (if equipped), teleaid system (if equipped). Safety Features: Airbag system operation, seat belt usage, child restraint systems, emergency procedures. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement guidance. Basic Troubleshooting: Understanding dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic operational checks. Emergency Operation: Jumping a dead battery, changing a flat tire, vehicle towing information. Vehicle Care: Cleaning and care recommendations for interior and exterior surfaces. Technical Depth Depth: Operational and user-focused. Provides information for the owner to safely operate and maintain the vehicle. Does not contain detailed diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typically found in a service manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format Digital: N/A (Printed) Print Quality Print Quality: High-quality OEM printing, durable paper stock. Binding Type Binding: Stapled or perfect bound, designed for durability in vehicle use. Paper Type Paper Type: Glossy or semi-gloss paper for clear text and image reproduction. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Ml320 Engine: 3.2L M112 E32 V6 (SOHC, 18 valves) Ml320 Horsepower: 215 hp @ 5,750 rpm Ml320 Torque: 229 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm Ml430 Engine: 4.3L M113 E43 V8 (SOHC, 24 valves) Ml430 Horsepower: 268 hp @ 5,500 rpm Ml430 Torque: 284 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm Ml55 Amg Engine: 5.4L M113 E55 V8 (SOHC, 24 valves) Ml55 Amg Horsepower: 342 hp @ 5,500 rpm Ml55 Amg Torque: 376 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm Performance Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) Fuel System Fuel Injection: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine Management ECM Type: Bosch Motronic Engine Control Module (specific variant depends on engine) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed automatic transmission Transmission Code V6 V8: 722.6xx (e.g., 722.600, 722.642) Transmission Fluid Type: MB Approval 236.10 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF 134) Optional Optional Transmission: N/A (All W163 models for 2000 featured the 5-speed automatic) Features Transmission Modes: Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes, offering different shift points and acceleration characteristics. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 111.0 inches (2820 mm) Length: 189.3 inches (4808 mm) Width: 71.6 inches (1819 mm) Height: 68.0 inches (1727 mm) Ground Clearance: 8.0 inches (203 mm) (approximate, may vary slightly) Weights Curb Weight Ml320: 4,450 lbs (2018 kg) Curb Weight Ml430: 4,650 lbs (2109 kg) Curb Weight Ml55 Amg: 4,800 lbs (2177 kg) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat: 31.5 cu ft (892 L) Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded: 79.0 cu ft (2237 L) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver: 4-star rating (for model year 2000) NHTSA Frontal Passenger: 4-star rating (for model year 2000) IIHS Frontal Offset: Acceptable (for similar models of the era) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Esp: Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Traction Control: Standard ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) integrated with ESP. Passive Features Airbags Front: Driver and front passenger airbags Airbags Side: Optional front side-impact airbags (check VIN for specific fitment) Seat Belts: 3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point rear seat belts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Bose premium sound system with CD changer (optional), AM/FM radio, cassette player. Navigation: Optional GPS navigation system, often featuring a trunk-mounted CD-ROM drive. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Parking Assist: Optional Parktronic parking assist system (audible sensors). Connectivity Teleaid: Optional Tele Aid...