🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: ML550 Model Code: W164 Model Year: 2008 Codes Engine Code: M273 (5.5L V8) Chassis Code: W164 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Luxury Mid-size SUV (W164 ML-Class) Target Audience: Owners seeking detailed DIY repair information, independent repair shops Competitive Analysis Competitors 2008: BMW X5, Audi Q7, Lexus RX Key Features Vehicle Highlights: Powerful V8 engine, comfortable ride, advanced safety features, luxurious interior Manual Advantage: Official, factory-level diagnostic and repair data, crucial for accurate maintenance and troubleshooting of complex Mercedes-Benz systems. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML550 (W164 Chassis) Engine Coverage: 5.5L V8 (M273.961) Transmission Coverage: 7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC) Page Count Estimated Pages: 3000+ Manual Type Type: Official Factory Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Software (Digital Download/CD-ROM) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust systems Drivetrain: Automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC), transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, axles Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension, steering system, power steering Brakes: Brake system components, ABS, ESP, brake diagnostics and repair Electrical Electronics: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, CAN bus communication Body Chassis: Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, HVAC system, chassis components Comfort Convenience: Power windows, seats, mirrors, sunroof, keyless entry, climate control Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, tune-ups Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit diagrams, component testing Repair Replacement: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, and body components Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized Mercedes-Benz tools required for specific repairs Specifications Tolerances: Torque specifications, clearances, alignment data, and other critical tolerances Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds) Diagnostic Capability: Advanced, including wiring diagrams and component testing procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Searchable PDF or proprietary diagnostic software platform Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages Binding Type Physical Binding: N/A (Software Format) Paper Type Physical Paper: N/A (Software Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: V8, Naturally Aspirated Displacement: 5.5 Liters (5461 cc) Bore X Stroke: 98.0 mm x 90.5 mm Compression Ratio: 10.7:1 Valve Train: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Performance Horsepower: 382 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended) Emissions Standard: EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / CARB LEV II 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 7-speed Automatic with Tiptronic and Steering Wheel Shift Paddles Transmission Code: 7G-TRONIC (722.9) Optional Optional Transmission: N/A for ML550 Features Drive Type: All-Wheel Drive (4MATIC) Gear Ratios: 4.377 / 2.859 / 1.927 / 1.570 / 1.157 / 1.000 / 0.728 (Reverse: 3.416) Transmission Fluid Spec: MB 236.14 (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 188.5 inches (4788 mm) Width: 75.2 inches (1910 mm) Height: 70.2 inches (1783 mm) Wheelbase: 114.7 inches (2915 mm) Ground Clearance: 8.0 inches (203 mm) (approx.) Weights Curb Weight: 4,707 lbs (2135 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 6,283 lbs (2850 kg) Cargo Cargo Volume Seats Up: 39.5 cu ft (1118 L) Cargo Volume Seats Down: 77.2 cu ft (2187 L) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5-Star NHTSA Side Impact: 5-Star IIHS Front Crashworthiness: Good IIHS Side Crashworthiness: Good IIHS Roof Strength: Good Active Features Stability Control: Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Traction Control: All-Season Traction Control (4ETS) Brake Assist: Brake Assist System (BAS) ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Passive Features Airbags: Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and belt-force limiters Child Seats: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation System) Audio System: Bose® surround sound system (optional) Navigation: HDD-based navigation system Driver Assistance Parking Aid: PARKTRONIC (front and rear parking sensors) Adaptive Cruise Control: DISTRONIC (optional) Blind Spot Monitoring: Optional (part of Driving Assistance Package) Connectivity Bluetooth: Bluetooth® interface for hands-free calling Auxiliary Input: Standard auxiliary audio input 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months (depending on driving conditions, refer to manual for specific 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicators) Transmission Fluid Service: Recommended at 40,000-60,000 miles, consult manual for specific recommendations based on operating conditions. Engine Air Filter: Inspect every 20,000 miles, replace as needed or at 40,000 miles. Cabin Air Filter: Inspect every 10,000 miles, replace annually or as needed. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: SAE 5W-40 Synthetic (Meets MB 229.5 specification) Coolant: MB 325.0 Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) Brake Fluid: DOT 4 Plus (Meets MB 331.0 specification) Known Issues Air Suspension Problems: Leaking air springs, compressor failures (if equipped with optional AIRMATIC) Ignition Coil Failures: Can...