Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheels, tires, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS, ASR, ESP, brake pad and rotor replacement, parking brake
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (interior/exterior), instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), power windows, mirrors, seats, door locks, wipers, horns
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (manual and automatic climate control), refrigerant handling
MB Approved ATF (e.g., Shell ATF 134 or equivalent)
Transfer Case:
Integrated with AWD system, often with low-range gearing option for ML models
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Approx:
184.5 inches (4686 mm)
Width Approx:
71.5 inches (1816 mm)
Height Approx:
67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx Ml320:
4400 lbs (2000 kg)
Towing Capacity Approx:
5000 lbs (2268 kg)
Wheelbase Approx:
111 inches (2820 mm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for models tested during the period)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for models tested during the period)
Active Features
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) standard on most models
Traction Control:
All-Season Traction Control (ASR) standard
Antilock Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Options:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Bose sound system.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (COMAND 2.0/2.5).
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Optional Parktronic parking assist system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth phone integration (e.g., UHI interface).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended at 40,000-60,000 miles (check manual for specific model year recommendations).
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
API SM or higher, ACEA A3/B4, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic (check owner's manual for exact MB approval number).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Approved Hydraulic Fluid (e.g., CHF 11 S or equivalent, specific to model)
Known Issues
Common Problem Interior Plastics:
Deterioration of interior plastic trim and soft-touch surfaces due to age and UV exposure.
Common Problem ABS Esp Sensors:
Failure of ABS/ESP sensors or control modules, leading to warning lights and system malfunction.
Common Problem Cooling System:
Leaking coolant hoses, radiator, or water pump; potential for head gasket issues on some V6 engines.
Common Problem Transmission:
Transmission fluid leaks, 'limp mode' activation, or shifting issues, often related to the conductor plate or valve body.
Common Problem Window Regulators:
Window regulator failure, causing windows to drop into the door panels.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz, established reputation for luxury, engineering, and durability.
Model Evolution
First Generation W163:
Introduced in 1997 as Mercedes-Benz's first entry into the SUV market, blending luxury car comfort with off-road capability.
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
Facelifted for the 2002 model year, featuring updated styling, interior refinements, and engine enhancements.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Common Awards Era:
While specific awards for every model year are not detailed here, the M-Class generally competed in segments that received critical acclaim for luxury, comfort, and performance in its era.
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