Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats)
Alternator, Starter Motor, Fuel Pump, Radiator, Water Pump, Power Steering Pump, AC Compressor
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, detailed repair procedures, diagnostic information, component specifications, and electrical system schematics. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Text-searchable (OCR processed where applicable)
Print Quality
Resolution:
High-resolution graphics and schematics for clear viewing and printing
Up to 3500 kg (7716 lbs) with optional towing package
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 630 Liters (22.2 cu ft) behind rear seats; 2019 Liters (71.3 cu ft) with rear seats folded
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger - for models equipped with side airbags and rollover protection)
IIHS Ratings:
Good (Frontal Offset, Side Impact - varies by specific features and testing year)
Active Features
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Skid Control)
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal Airbags (Driver and Passenger), Side Airbags (Front and Rear Optional), Side Curtain Airbags (Optional)
Seat Belts:
3-point Inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
Rollover Protection:
Integrated structural reinforcement, potential for active rollover prevention systems (optional)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Bose), SiriusXM satellite radio readiness.
Navigation:
Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with CD-ROM based maps.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assist:
Optional front and rear PARKTRONIC parking sensors.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control; optional Distronic adaptive cruise control on some higher-trim models.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional factory-installed or aftermarket Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling.
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control with optional rear AC vents.
Seating:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory function, heated front seats (optional), leather upholstery.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (based on Flexible Service System, 'ASSYST')
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles (64,000 - 96,000 km) for optimal longevity. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Coolant Flush:
Initial fill typically good for 5 years or 100,000 miles; subsequent flushes every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, API SM or higher, MB-Approval 229.5
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (16.9 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
MB Spec 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue or Green)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB Spec 236.3 (Hydraulic Fluid, Green)
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, mass airflow sensor (MAF), catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, various suspension bushings and control arms, transmission conductor plate.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can experience issues with window regulators, central locking actuators, and sometimes HVAC blower motor resistors due to age and electrical component fatigue.
Rust And Corrosion:
Areas prone to rust include wheel arches, rocker panels, and the underside, especially in regions with road salt. Regular inspection and rustproofing are advisable.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Luxury automobiles, pioneering SUVs with the G-Wagen, focus on engineering excellence and durability.
Model Evolution
W163 Introduction:
Introduced in 1997 as Mercedes-Benz's first mid-size luxury SUV, aiming to blend traditional Mercedes comfort with off-road capability.
Facelift 2001:
Significant update for the 2002 model year, affecting styling, interior, and powertrain options, aligning with the models covered by this manual.
Production
Production Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA (for North American market and global export)
Production Timeline:
W163 generation produced from 1997 to 2005. ML 350 model introduced in 2003 as a successor to the ML320.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Past Awards:
While specific awards for the ML 350 model year 2002-2005 are not prominently listed in general reviews, the W163 platform generally received positive feedback for its luxury appointments and capability upon its introduction. It was a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied over the years; some models and components showed average to below-average reliability in certain reports due to complexity and specific part failures.
Certifications
Emission Standards:
Designed to meet EPA and CARB emissions standards for the respective model years.
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