2003 Mercedes-benz M Class Owners Manual

왘 Reinstall the charged battery. Follow the previously described steps in re- verse order.

Warning!

Never charge a battery while still installed in the vehicle. Gases may escape during charg- ing and cause explosions that may result in paint damage, corrosion or personal injury.

262

The following procedures must be car- ried out following any interruption of battery power (e.g. due to reconnec- tion): 앫 Set the clock (컄 page 112). 앫 Set the date in trip computer

(컄 page 172).

앫 Calibrate the compass

(컄 page 174).

앫 Resynchronize the ESP

(컄 page 225).

앫 Resynchronize side windows

(컄 page 136).

앫 Resynchronize sliding/pop-up

roof*(컄 page 138).

Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Large 12-volt storage batteries contain lead. Recycling of batteries is the preferred method of disposal. Many states require sellers of batteries to accept old batteries for recycling.

Practical hints Battery

263

i Jumper cables with polarity reversal protection are available at any autho- rized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Practical hints Jump starting Jump starting

Warning!

Failure to follow these directions will cause damage to the electronic components, and can lead to a battery explosion and severe injury or death.

Never lean over batteries while connecting or jump starting, you might get injured.

Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not allow this fluid to come in contact with eyes, skin or clothing. In case it does, immediately flush affected area with water, and seek medical help if necessary.

A battery will also produce hydrogen gas, which is flammable and very explosive. Keep flames or sparks away from battery, avoid improper connection of jumper cables, smoking etc.

Attempting to jump start a frozen battery can result in it exploding, causing personal injury.

Read all instructions before proceeding.

264

If the battery is discharged, the engine can be started with jumper cables and the bat- tery of another vehicle. Observe the follow- ing: 앫 Jump starting should only be performed when the engine and catalytic convert- er are cold.

앫 Do not start the engine if the battery is

frozen. Let the battery thaw out first.

앫 Only jump start from batteries with the same voltage rating (12V). Jump start- ing with a more powerful battery could damage the vehicle's electrical system, which will not be covered by the Mer- cedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

앫 Use only jumper cables with sufficient-

cross-section, insulated terminal clamps and polarity reversal protec- tion.

Warning!

Keep flames or sparks away from battery. Do not smoke.

Observe all safety instructions and precau- tions when handling automotive batteries (컄 page 261).

The battery is located in the engine com- partment. 왘 Make sure that the two vehicles do not

touch.

왘 Turn off all electrical consumers. 왘 Apply parking brake. 왘 Shift selector lever to position P.

Jump starting may only be performed on the battery installed in the engine compartment. Avoid repeated and lengthy starting at- tempts. Do not attempt to start the engine us- ing a battery quick charge unit. If engine does not run after several un- successful starting attempts, have it checked at the nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. Excessive unburned fuel generated by repeated failed starting attempts may damage the catalytic converter. Make sure the jumper cables do not have loose or missing insulation. Make sure the cable clamps do not touch any other metal part while the other end is still attached to a battery.

Practical hints Jump starting

1 Positive terminal 2 Cable clamps 3 Negative terminal 4 Cover 왘 Remove cover 4 from positive terminal

on both vehicles.

왘 Connect positive terminals 1 on the

batteries with the jumper cables. Start with the charged battery.

265

Practical hints Jump starting

왘 Let the engine of the assisting vehicle

run at idle speed.

왘 Connect the negative terminals 3 of the batteries with the jumper cables. Start with the charged battery.

왘 Start the engine of the disabled vehi-

cle.

Now you can again turn on the electrical consumers. Do not turn on the lights under any circumstances. 왘 Remove the jumper cables first from the negative terminals 3 of the batter- ies and then from the positive terminals 1.

왘 Have the battery checked at the

nearest authorized Mercedes-Benz Center.

The vehicle cannot be started via tow-start.

266

Towing the vehicle Mercedes-Benz recommends that the vehi- cle be transported with all wheels off the ground using flatbed or appropriate wheel lift/dolly equipment. This method is pref- erable to other types of towing.

Use flatbed or wheel lift/dolly equip- ment, with key in steering lock turned to position 0. Do not tow with sling-type equipment. Towing with sling-type equipment over bumpy roads will damage radiator and supports. To prevent damage during transport, do not tie down vehicle by its chassis or suspension parts. Use the towing eyes. Switch off the ESP (컄 page 76), tow-away alarm (컄 page 80) and the automatic central locking (컄 page 89).

When circumstances do not permit the recommended towing methods, the vehi- cle may be towed with all wheels on the ground only so far as necessary to have the vehicle moved to a safe location where the recommended towing methods can be em- ployed.

When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, the selector lever must be in position N and the key must be in steering lock position 2. When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, the vehicle may be towed only for distances up to 30 miles (50 km) and at a speed not to exceed 30 mph (50 km/h). If the vehicle is towed with the front axle raised (observe instructions re- garding flexible drive shaft), the engine must be shut off (key in steering lock position 1). Otherwise, the 4-ETS may become engaged which may cause loss of towing control.

Practical hints Towing the vehicle

To be certain to avoid additional dam- age to the vehicle powertrain, however you should observe the following: 앫 With damage to the front axle

앫 raise front axle 앫 remove flexible drive shaft be- tween rear axle and transfer case

앫 With damage to the rear axle

앫 raise rear axle 앫 tow vehicle with wheel lift or

dolly placed under front wheels

앫 With damage to the transfer case 앫 remove flexible drive shaft to

the drive axles

Always install new self-locking nuts when reinstalling flexible drive shaft.

267

Practical hints Towing the vehicle

Warning!

Warning!

If circumstances require towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, always tow with a tow bar if: 앫 the engine will not run 앫 there is a malfunction in the power sup- ply or in the vehicle’s electrical system Prior to towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, make certain that the key is in steering lock position 2.

If the key is left in steering lock position 0 for an extended period of time, it can no longer be turned in the switch. In this case, the steering is locked. To unlock, remove key from steering lock and reinsert.

With the engine not running, there is no power assistance for the braking and steer- ing systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably higher de- gree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle. Adapt your driving accord- ingly.

To signal turns while being towed with hazard warning flasher in use, turn key in steering lock to position 2 and acti- vate combination switch for left or right turn signal in usual manner – only the selected turn signal will operate. Upon canceling the turn signal, the haz- ard warning flasher will operate again.

The vehicle cannot be started via tow-start.

268

When towing the vehicle with all wheels on the ground, note the following: With the automatic central locking acti- vated and the key in steering lock position 2, the vehicle doors lock if the left front wheel is turning at vehicle speeds of approx. 9 mph (15 km/h) or more. To prevent the vehicle doors from lock- ing, deactivate the automatic central locking (컄 page 89). Towing of the vehicle should only be done using the towing eye. Never at- tach tow cable, tow rope or tow rod to vehicle chassis, frame or suspension parts.

i The selector lever will remain locked in position P and the key will not turn in the steering lock if the battery is dis- connected or discharged. See notes on the battery (컄 page 261) or on jump starting (컄 page 264). Manual unlocking of transmission se- lector lever (컄 page 245)

Practical hints Towing the vehicle

Front towing eye

The front towing eye is located on the pas- senger side below the bumper.

The rear towing eye is located behind the right side cover in the bumper panel.

1 Towing eye

Rear towing eye

Warning!

In order to avoid possible serious burns or injury, use extreme caution when removing the cover, because the rear exhaust pipe is extremely hot.

ML 320, ML 350, ML 500
1 Cover 2 Towing eye To remove cover: 왘 Pry out the cover 1 using a flat blade

screwdriver (컄 page 237).

To reinstall cover: 왘 Engage cover at bottom and press in

top securely.

269

Stranded vehicle

Freeing a stranded vehicle, on which the wheels are dug into sand or mud, should be done with the greatest of care, especial- ly if the vehicle is heavily loaded. Avoid pulling the vehicle jerkily or diago- nally, since it could result in damage to the chassis alignment. Never try to free a vehicle that is still cou- pled to a trailer. If possible, a vehicle equipped with trailer hitch receiver should be pulled backward in its own previously made tracks.

Practical hints Towing the vehicle

ML 55 AMG and vehicles with sport pack- age* 1 Cover 2 Towing eye To remove cover: 왘 Grip cover at bottom and securely pull

out.

To reinstall cover: 왘 Engage cover and press in securely.

270

Fuses Only install fuses that have been tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz and that have the specified amperage rat- ing. Never attempt to repair or bridge a blown fuse. Have the cause determined and remedied by an authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

The fuse chart is printed on the corre- sponding fuse box cover. The amperages of the fuses are also indicated there.

Practical hints Fuses

Fuse box in engine compartment

The fuse box is located in the engine com- partment on the left-hand side.

1 Clamps 2 Fuse box cover

Removing/installing cover 왘 Release clamps 1
왘 Lift fuse box cover 2 up. 왘 Install cover 1 in reverse order.

3 Fuse chart 4 Fuse extractor 5 Spare fuses

271

Practical hints Fuses

Auxiliary fuse box in front passenger footwell

Removing/installing cover 왘 Turn both locks 1 90° counterclock-

The auxiliary fuse box is located in the front passenger compartment.

wise.

왘 Remove cover 2 in direction of arrow. 왘 Install cover 2 in reverse order.

1 Lock 2 Cover

272

Technical data Spare parts service

Warranty coverage

Identification labels

Layout of poly-V-belt drive

Engine

Rims and tires

Electrical system

Main Dimensions

Weights

Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

Consumer information

273

Technical data Spare parts service

The “Technical data” section provides the necessary technical data for your vehicle.

The use of non-genuine parts and ac- cessories not authorized by Mercedes-Benz could damage the vehi- cle, which is not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty, or could compromise the vehicle’s dura- bility or safety.

Spare parts service All authorized Mercedes-Benz Centers maintain a stock of original spare parts re- quired for maintenance and repair work. In addition, strategically located parts distri- bution centers provide quick and reliable parts service. More than 300 000 different spare parts for Mercedes-Benz models are available. Mercedes-Benz original spare parts are subjected to stringent quality inspections. Each part has been specifically developed, manufactured or selected for and adapted to Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Therefore, Mercedes-Benz original spare parts should be installed.

274

Warranty coverage Your vehicle is covered under the terms of the “warranties” printed in the Service and Warranty Information booklet. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center will exchange or repair any defec- tive parts originally installed on the vehicle in accordance with the terms of the follow- ing warranties: 앫 New Vehicle Limited Warranty 앫 Emission System Warranty 앫 Emission Performance Warranty 앫 California, Maine, Massachusetts, and

Vermont Emission Control Systems Warranty

Replacement parts and accessories are covered by the Mercedes-Benz Spare Parts and Accessories warranties, copies of which are available at any Mercedes-Benz Center.

Loss of Service and Warranty Information Booklet

Should you lose your Service and Warranty Information booklet, have your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center arrange for a re- placement. It will be mailed to you.

Technical data Warranty coverage

275

Technical data Identification labels Identification labels

When ordering spare parts, please specify vehicle identification and en- gine numbers.

1 Certification label and Paintwork num-

ber

2 Engine number (engraved on engine) 3 VIN, visible (lower edge of windshield) 4 Emission control label

Vacuum line routing for emission con- trol system

5 Information label, California version

276

Layout of poly-V-belt drive

1 Automatic belt tensioner 2 Power steering pump 3 Air conditioning compressor 4 Crankshaft 5 Coolant pump 6 Generator/Alternator 7 Idler pully

Technical data Layout of poly-V-belt drive

277

Technical data Engine Engine

Model Engine Mode of operation

ML 320 (163.1541) 112
4-stroke engine, gaso- line injection 3.54 in (89.90 mm) 3.31 in (84.00 mm)

No. of cylinders Bore Stroke Total piston displacement 195 cu.in. (3199 cm3) Compression ratio Output acc. to SAE J 1349 215 hp/5600 rpm

10:1

ML 350 (163.1571) 112
4-stroke engine, gaso- line injection 3.81 in (97.00 mm) 3.31 in (84.00 mm) 227 cu.in. (3724 cm3) 10:1
241 hp/5600 rpm (180 kW/5600 rpm) 259 ft.lb/3000 rpm (350 Nm/3000 rpm) 6000 rpm 1-4-3-6-2-5
7 ft 10 in (2390 mm)

ML 500 (163.1751) 113
4-stroke engine, gaso- line injection 3.81 in (97.00 mm) 3.31 in (84.00 mm) 303 cu.in. (4966 cm3) 10:1
288 hp/5600 rpm (215 kW/5600 rpm) 325 ft.lb/2700 rpm (440 Nm/2700 rpm) 6000 rpm 1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8
7 ft 10 in (2390 mm)

ML 55 AMG (163.1741) 113
4-stroke engine, gasoline injection 3.81 in (97.00 mm) 3.62 in (92.00 mm) 332 cu.in. (5439 cm3) 10.5:1
342 hp/5500 rpm (255 kW/5500 rpm) 376 ft.lb/2800 rpm (510 Nm/2800 rpm) 6000 rpm 1-5-4-2-6-3-7-8
7 ft 10 in (2390 mm)

Maximum torque acc. to SAE J 1349
Maximum engine speed Firing order Poly-V-belt 1 The quoted data apply only to the standard vehicle. See an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center for the corresponding data of all special bodies and special equipment.

(160 kW/5600 rpm) 233 ft.lb/3000 rpm (315 Nm/3000 rpm) 6000 rpm 1-4-3-6-2-5
7 ft 10 in (2390 mm)

278

Rims and tires Use only tires and rims which have been specifically developed for your vehicle and tested and approved by Mercedes-Benz. Other tires and rims can have detrimental effects, such as 앫 poor handling characteristics 앫 increased noise 앫 increased fuel consumption

Moreover, tires and rims not approved by Mercedes-Benz may, under load, ex- hibit dimensional variations and differ- ent tire deformation characteristics under load that could cause them to come into contact with the vehicle body or axle parts. Damage to the tires or the vehicle may be the result.

Technical data Rims and tires

Further information on tires and rims is available at any authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center. A tire inflation pressure table is located on the fuel filler cap of the vehicle. The tire pressure should be checked regu- larly and should only be adjusted on cold tires. Follow tire manufacturer’s maintenance recommendation includ- ed with vehicle.

Rims and tires

Model Rims (light alloy) Wheel offset All season tires (radial-ply-tires) Rims* (light alloy) Wheel offset* All season tires (radial-ply-tires)* 1 Must not be used with snow chains.

ML 320, ML 350
8 J x 17 H2 ET 52
2.0 in (52 mm) 255/60 R17 106 H 8 ½ J x 17 H2 ET 47
1.85 in (47 mm) 275/55 R17 109 V

ML 500 8 ½ J x 17 H2 ET 52
2.0 in (52 mm) 275/55 R17 109 V 8 ½ J x 17 H2 ET 47
1.85 in (47 mm) 275/55 R17 109 V

ML 55 AMG 9 J x 18 H2 ET 52
2.0 in (52 mm) 285/50 R18 109 W1

279

Technical data Rims and tires

Rims and winter tires*

Model Rims (light alloy) Wheel offset All season tires (radial-ply-tires)

ML 55 AMG 8 ½ J x 17 H2 ET 52
2.0 in (52 mm) 275/55 R17 109 H

Spare wheel

Model Rim Wheel offset Space-saver tire 1 Must not be used with snow chains.

ML 320, ML 350, ML 500, ML 55 AMG 4Jx18 H 2 ET0
0 in (0 mm) T155/90 D18 113M1

280

Technical data Electrical system

Electrical system

Model Generator (alternator) Starter motor Battery Spark plugs

Electrode gap Tightening torque

ML 320, ML 350
14 V/120 A 12 V/1.7 kW 12 V/100 Ah Bosch F 8 DPP332
Bosch F 8 DPER 0.039 in (1.0 mm) 15 – 22 ft.lb (20 – 30 Nm)

ML 500
14 V/150 A 12 V/1.7 kW 12 V/100 Ah Bosch F 8 DPP332
Bosch F 8 DPER 0.039 in (1.0 mm) 15 – 22 ft.lb (20 – 30 Nm)

ML 55 AMG 14 V/150 A 12 V/1.7 kW 12 V/100 Ah NGK PFR 5-11

0.039 in (1.0 mm) 15 – 22 ft.lb (20 – 30 Nm)

281

ML 320, ML 350, ML 500
182.6 in (4638 mm) 83.7 in (2126 mm) 71.7 in (1820 mm) 111.0 in (2820 mm) 61.2 in (1555 mm) 61.2 in (1555 mm) 8.03 in (204 mm) 468.5 in (11.9 m)

ML 55 AMG 182.5 in (4635 mm) 83.7 in (2126 mm) 71.0 in (1804 mm) 111.0 in (2820 mm) 61.2 in (1555 mm) 61.2 in (1555 mm) 7.4 in (188 mm) 468.5 in (11.9 m)

Technical data Main Dimensions Main Dimensions

Model Overall vehicle length Overall vehicle width Overall vehicle height Wheelbase Track, front Track, rear Ground clearance Turning radius

282

Weights

Roof load max.

220 lb (100 kg)

Technical data Weights

283

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. Capacities

Vehicle components and their respective lubricants must match.

Therefore use only brand tested and rec- ommended by us.

Please refer to the Factory Approved Ser- vice Products pamphlet, or inquire at your Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Model ML 320, ML 350, ML 500
ML 55 AMG

Capacity 8.5 US qt (8.0 l)

8.0 US qt (7.5 l) 9.0 US qt (8.5 l)

1.6 US qt (1.5 l) 1.3 US qt (1.25 l) 1.2 US qt (1.1 l) approx. 0.65 US qt (0.6 l) approx. 1.5 oz (43 g) each 0.75 US qt (0.7 l)

Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. Recommended engine oils

Recommended engine oils MB Automatic Transmission Oil1

(Dexron 3 or Dexron 2E) (Hypoid gear oil SAE 90, 85 W 90) (Hypoid gear oil SAE 90) MB Power Steering Fluid High temperature roller bearing grease MB Brake Fluid (DOT 4+)

Engine with oil filter

Automatic transmis- sion Transfer case Rear axle Front axle Power steering Front wheel hubs Brake system 1 MB part no. 001 989 21 03 10

284

Cooling system Fuel tank

including a reserve of Air conditioning system

Model

ML 320, ML 350, ML 500
ML 55 AMG

Capacity approx. 12.7 US qt (12.0 l) 22.0 US gal (83.0 l)

25.0 US gal (95.0 l)

approx. 3.2 US qt (12.0 l)

Windshield washer and headlamp cleaning sys- tem 1 Use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and water for temperatures above freezing or MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and commercially available pre-

8.0 US qt (7.6 l)

mixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze for temperatures below freezing. Follow suggested mixing ratios (컄 page 290).

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc. MB Anticorrosion/Antifreeze Premium unleaded gasoline: Posted Octane 91 (Avg. of 96 RON/86 MON Premium unleaded gasoline: Posted Octane 91 (Avg. of 96 RON/86 MON

R-134a refrigerant and special PAG lubricant oil (never R-12) MB Windshield Washer Concentrate1

285

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

Engine oils

Engine oils are specifically tested for their suitability in our engines. Therefore, use only engine oils recommended by Mercedes-Benz. Information on recom- mended brands is available in the Factory Approved Service Products pamphlet, or at your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Engine oil additives

Do not blend oil additives with engine oil. They may be harmful to the engine opera- tion. Damage or malfunctions resulting from blending oil additives are not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Air conditioning refrigerant

R-134a (HFC) refrigerant and special PAG lubricating oil is used in the air condition- ing system.

286

Never use R-12 (CFC) or mineral-based lu- bricating oil, otherwise damage to the system will occur.

Brake fluid

During vehicle operation, the boiling point of the brake fluid is continuously reduced through the absorption of moisture from the atmosphere. Under extremely strenu- ous operating conditions, this moisture content can lead to the formation of bub- bles in the system, thus reducing the sys- tem’s efficiency. Therefore, the brake fluid must be re- placed every two years, preferably in the spring. Only brake fluid approved by Mercedes-Benz is recommended. Your au- thorized Mercedes-Benz Center will pro- vide you with additional information.

Premium unleaded gasoline

To maintain the engine’s durability and performance, premium unleaded gaso- line must be used. If premium unleaded is not available and low octane fuel is used, follow these precautions: 앫 Have the fuel tank only partially

filled with unleaded regular and fill up with premium unleaded as soon as possible.

앫 Avoid full throttle driving and abrupt

acceleration.

앫 Do not exceed an engine speed of 3000 rpm if the vehicle is loaded with a light load such as two per- sons and no luggage.

앫 Do not exceed 2/3 of maximum ac- celerator pedal position if the vehi- cle is fully loaded or operating in mountainous terrain.

Fuel requirements

Gasoline additives

Use only premium unleaded meeting ASTM standard D 439: 앫 The octane number (posted at the

pump) must be 91 min. It is an average of both the Research (R) octane num- ber and the Motor (M) octane number: (R+M)/2). This is also known as the ANTI-KNOCK INDEX.

Unleaded gasoline containing oxygenates such as ethanol, IPA, IBA and TBA can be used provided the ratio of any one of these oxygenates to gasoline does not exceed 10%; MTBE not to exceed 15%. The ratio of methanol to gasoline must not exceed 3% plus additional cosolvents. Using mixtures of ethanol and methanol is not allowed. Gasohol, which contains 10% ethanol and 90% unleaded gasoline, can be used. These blends must also meet all other fuel requirements, such as resistance to spark knock, boiling range, vapor pressure etc.

A major concern among engine manufac- turers is carbon build-up caused by gaso- line. Mercedes-Benz recommends only the use of quality gasoline containing additives that prevent the build up of carbon depos- its. After an extended period of using fuels without such additives, carbon deposits can build up especially on the intake valves and in the combustion area, leading to en- gine performance problems such as: 앫 Warm-up hesitation 앫 Unstable idle 앫 Knocking/pinging 앫 Misfire 앫 Power loss Do not blend other specific fuel additives with fuel. This only results in unnecessary costs and may be harmful to the engine op- eration.

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

Damage or malfunctions resulting from poor fuel quality or from blending specific fuel additives are not covered by the Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.

Coolants

The engine coolant is a mixture of water and anticorrosion/antifreeze, which pro- vides: 앫 Corrosion protection 앫 Freeze protection 앫 Boiling protection (by increasing the

boiling point)

The cooling system was filled at the factory with a coolant providing freeze protection to approximately -35°F (-37°C) and corro- sion protection. If the antifreeze mixture is effective to -22°F (-30°C), the boiling point of the cool- ant in the pressurized cooling system is reached at approximately 266°F (130°C).

287

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

The coolant solution must be used year round to provide the necessary corrosion protection and increase in boil-over pro- tection. You should have it replaced every 3 years. To provide important corrosion protection, the solution must be at least 45% anticor- rosion/antifreeze (equivalent to freeze protection to approx. - 22°F [-30°C]). If you use a solution that is more than 55% anticorrosion/antifreeze (freeze protec- tion to approx. - 49°F [-45°C]), the engine temperature will increase due to the lower heat transfer capability of the solution. Therefore, do not use more than this amount of anticorrosion/antifreeze.

If the coolant level is low, water and MB anticorrosion/antifreeze should be used to bring it up to the proper level (have cool- ing system checked for signs of leakage). Please make sure that the mixture is in ac- cordance with label instructions. The water in the cooling system must meet minimum requirements, which are usually satisfied by normal drinking water. If you are not sure about the water quality, con- sult your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center.

Anticorrosion/antifreeze

Your vehicle contains a number of alumi- num parts. The use of aluminum compo- nents in motor vehicle engines necessitates that anticorrosion/antifreeze coolant used in such engines be specifical- ly formulated to protect the aluminum parts. (Failure to use such anticorro- sion/antifreeze coolant will result in a sig- nificantly shortened service life.) Therefore, the following product is strongly recommended for use in your vehicle: Mercedes-Benz Anticorrosion/Antifreeze agent. Before the start of the winter season (or once a year in hot southern regions), you should have the anticorrosion/antifreeze concentration checked. The coolant is also regularly checked each time you bring your vehicle to your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center for service.

288

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

Anticorrosion/antifreeze quantity

Model

ML 320, ML 350, ML 500, ML 55 AMG

Approx. freeze protection – 35°F (– 37°C) 6.4 US qt (6.0 l)

– 49°F (– 45°C) 7.0 US qt (6.6 l)

289

Technical data Fuels, coolants, lubricants etc.

Windshield and headlamp washer system

Warning!

Windshield and headlamp washer fluid mixing ratio

Washer solvent/antifreeze is highly flamma- ble. Do not spill washer solvent/antifreeze on hot engine parts, because it may burn. You can be seriously burned.

Both the windshield and headlamp washer systems are supplied from the windshield washer fluid reservoir. The windshield and headlamp washer fluid reservoir has a capacity of approx. 8.0 US qt. (7.6 l). 왘 Refill the reservoir with MB Windshield Washer Concentrate and water (or con- centrate and commercially available premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze, depending on am- bient temperatures).

For temperatures above freezing use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and water: 앫 1 part “S” to 100 parts water (40 ml “S” to 4 l water) For temperatures below freezing, use MB Windshield Washer Concentrate “S” and commercially available premixed windshield washer solvent/antifreeze: 앫 1 part “S” to 100 parts solvent (40 ml “S” to 4 l solvent).

290

Consumer information This has been prepared as required of all manufacturers of passenger cars under Ti- tle 49, Code of U.S. Federal Regulations, Part 575 pursuant to the “National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966”.

Uniform tire quality grading

Quality grades can be found, where appli- cable, on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:

Tread wear 200

Traction AA

Temperature

All passenger car tires must conform to federal safety requirements in addition to these grades.

Tread wear The tread wear grade is a comparative rat- ing based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For ex- ample, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1½) times as well on the gov- ernment course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Technical data Consumer information

Traction The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades repre- sent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pave- ment as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction perfor- mance.

Warning!

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straightahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

291

Warning!

The temperature grade for this tire is estab- lished for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underin- flation, or excessive loading, either sepa- rately or in combination, can cause excessive heat build-up and possible tire failure.

Technical data Consumer information

Temperature

The temperature grades are A (the high- est), B, and C, representing the tire’s resis- tance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high tem- perature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and ex- cessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Mo- tor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

292

Technical terms

ABS

(Antilock Brake System) Prevents the wheels from locking up during braking so that the vehicle can continue to be steered.

BabySmartTM airbag deactivation system

This system detects if a special system compatible child restraint seat is in- stalled on the front passenger seat. The system will automatically deactivate the passenger front airbag when such a seat is properly installed (indicator lamp 7 in the instrument cluster lights up). See your authorized Mercedes-Benz Light Truck Center for availability.

BabySmartTM compatible child seats Special restraint system for children. The sensor system for the passenger seat prevents deployment of the pas- senger front airbag if a BabySmartTM compatible child seat is installed.

BAS

(Brake Assist System) System for potentially reducing braking distances in emergency braking situa- tions. The system is activated when it senses an emergency based on how fast the brake is applied.

Bi-Xenon headlamps*

Headlamps which use an electric arc as the light source and produce a more in- tense light than filament headlamps. Bi-Xenon headlamps produce low beam and high beam.

CAC

(Customer Assistance Center) Mercedes-Benz customer service cen- ter, which can help you with any ques- tions about your vehicle and provide assistance in the event of a break- down.

CAN system

(Controller Area Network) Data bus network serving to control ve- hicle functions such as door locking or windshield wiping.

Cockpit

All instruments, switches, buttons and indicator/warning lamps in the passen- ger compartment needed for vehicle operation and monitoring.

Cruise control

Driving convenience system for auto- matically maintaining the vehicle speed set by the driver.

Engine number

The number set by the manufacturer and placed on the cylinder block to uniquely identify each engine pro- duced.

293

Technical terms

Engine oil viscosity

FSS

Kickdown

Measurement for the inner friction (vis- cosity) of the oil at different tempera- tures. The higher the temperature an oil can tolerate without becoming thin, or the lower the temperature it can tol- erate without becoming viscous, the better the viscosity.

ESP

(Electronic Stability Program) Improves vehicle handling and direc- tional stability.

(Flexible Service System) Service indicator in the speedometer display that informs the driver when the next vehicle maintenance service is due.

Gear range

Number of gears which are available to the automatic transmission for shifting. The automatic gear shifting process can be adapted to specific operating conditions using the selector lever.

ETD

GPS

(Emergency Tensioning Device) Device which deploys in certain frontal and rear collisions exceeding the sys- tem's threshold to tighten the seat belts. ->SRS

(Global Positioning System) Satellite-based system for relaying geographic location information to and from vehicles equipped with special re- ceivers. Employs CD digital maps for navigation.

Instrument cluster

The displays and indicator/warning lamps in the driver’s field of vision, in- cluding the tachometer, speedometer, engine temperature and fuel gauge.

Depressing the accelerator past the point of resistance shifts the transmis- sion down to the lowest possible gear. This very quickly accelerates the vehi- cle and should not be used for normal acceleration needs.

Line of fall

The direct line that an object moves downhill when influenced by the force of gravity alone.

Lock button

Button on the door which indicates whether the door is locked or un- locked. Pushing the lock button down on an individual door from inside will lock that door.

MCS

(Modular Control System) Information and operating center for vehicle sound and communications systems, including the radio and the ra- dio and navigation system, as well as for other optional equipment (CD changer, telephone, etc.).

294

Memory function*

Poly-V-belt drive

Used to store three individual seat, steering wheel and mirror positions.

Drives engine-components (alternator, AC compressor, etc.) from the engine.

MON

Power train

(Motor Octane Number) The Motor Octane Number for gasoline as determined by a standardized meth- od. It is an indication of a gasoline's ability to resist undesired detonation (knocking). The average of both the MON (Motor Octane Number) and ->RON (Research Octane Number) is posted at the pump, also known as AN- TI-KNOCK INDEX.

Multifunction display

A display field in the instrument cluster used to present information provided by the control system.

Parktronic*

System which uses visual and acoustic signals to assist the driver during park- ing maneuvers.

Collective term designating all compo- nents used to generate and transmit motive power to the drive axles, includ- ing 앫 engine 앫 clutch/torque converter 앫 transmission 앫 transfer case 앫 drive shaft 앫 differential 앫 axle shafts/axles

Technical terms

Remote Vehicle Diagnostics

Transmission of vehicle data and cur- rent location to the Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance Center for sub- scribers to Tele Aid service.

REST

(Residual engine heat utilization) Feature that uses the engine heat stored in the coolant to heat the vehi- cle interior for a short time after the en- gine has been turned off.

Restraint system

Seat belts, belt tensioner, airbags and child seat restraint systems. As inde- pendent systems, their protective func- tions complement one another.

295

Technical terms

RON

(Research Octane Number) The Research Octane Number for gaso- line as determined by a standardized method. It is an indication of a gaso- line's ability to resist undesired detona- tion (knocking). The average of both the ->MON (Motor Octane Number) and RON (Research Octane Number) is posted at the pump, also known as AN- TI-KNOCK INDEX.

Shift lock

When the vehicle is parked, this lock prevents the transmission selector le- ver from being moved out of position P without key turned and brake pedal de- pressed.

SRS

(Supplemental Restraint System) Seat belts, emergency tensioning de- vice and airbags. Though independent systems, they are closely interfaced to provide effective occupant protection.

Tele Aid System*

(Telematic Alarm Identification on Demand) The Tele Aid system consists of three types of response: automatic and man- ual emergency, roadside assistance and information. Tele Aid is initially ac- tivated by completing a subscriber agreement and placing an acquain- tance call. The Tele Aid system is operational pro- viding that the vehicle’s battery is charged, properly connected, not dam- aged and cellular and GPS coverage is available. Telematics*

A combination of the terms “telecom- munications” and “informatics”.

Tightening torque

Force times lever arm (e.g. a lug wrench) with which threaded fasteners such as wheel bolts are tightened.

Tire speed rating

Part of tire designation; indicates the speed range for which a tire is ap- proved.

Traction

Force exerted by the vehicle on the road via the tires.

Transfer case

Speed of rotation/torque converter that works together with the ->auto- matic transmission. In the LOW mode off-road position, the transfer case de- creases the output rotational speed of the ->automatic transmission by ap- proximately half. This results in a corre- sponding increase of torque on the drive axles. The vehicle then has nearly double the driving force but drives only approxi- mately half as fast.

296

VIN

(Vehicle Identification Number) The number set by the manufacturer and placed on the body to uniquely identify each vehicle produced.

Voice control system*

Voice control system for car phones, portable cell phones and audio sys- tems (radio, CD, etc.).

Technical terms

297

298

A ABS 25, 71, 293

ABS control 71
LOW RANGE mode 72
Malfunction indicator lamp 225
Warning lamp 225

Accelerator position, automatic

transmission 117

Accident

In case of 49

Activating

Air circulation mode 130
Air recirculation mode 129
Anti-theft alarm system 78
Automatic climate control 125
ESP 77
Exterior headlamps 46
Hazard warning flasher 106
Headlamps 46
High beams 102
Ignition 33
Immobilizer 51, 78
Rear passenger compartment

ventilation and climate control 131

Rear window defroster 131
Rear window wiper 48

Residual heat 130
Seat heater 91
Tow-away alarm 80
Warning indicators (Parktronic*) 151
Windshield wipers 48

Activating automatic central locking 89
Adding

Coolant 206
Engine oil 204, 205

Additional turn signals 247
Adjustable steering column

Indicator lamp 229

Adjusting 34

Backrest tilt 36, 37
Exterior rear view mirror 38
Head restraint height 36, 37
Head restraint tilt 36, 37
Headlamp aim 253
Instrument cluster illumination 110
Manual seat 35
Mirrors 38
Power seats 37
Seat cushion tilt 37
Seat fore and aft 35
Seat fore and aft adjustment 37
Seat height 35, 36

Index

Seats 34
Steering wheel 37

Adjusting air distribution

Automatic climate control 127

Adjusting air volume

Automatic climate control 127

Air conditioner (cooling)

Turning on 129

Air conditioning Cooling 129

Air conditioning refrigerant 286
Air outlets

Automatic climate control 132

Air pressure see Tire inflation pressure 211
Air pump 238
Air recirculation mode 128

Activating 129
Deactivating 129

AIRBAG OFF

Warning lamp 232

Airbags 55

BabySmartTM airbag deactivation

system 293

BabySmartTM deactivation system 65
Children 56
Front 59

299

Index

Passenger 59
Safety guidelines 57
Side impact 59
Window curtain 59

Alarm

Audible 70, 79
Canceling 79
Visual 78
Alarm system

Anti-theft 78

Anticorrosion/antifreeze 288
Antiglare

Automatic 119

Antilock brake system (ABS) 293
Anti-theft alarm system

Arming 78
Canceling alarm 79
Disarming 79
Anti-theft systems

Anti-theft alarm system 78
Immobilizer 78
Tow-away alarm, glass breakage

sensor 79

Aquaplaning see Hydroplaning 183

300

Armrest

Storage compartment in front of 153
Storage spaces 153

Armrest in rear seat bench 155
Ashtray

Front center console 156
Rear center console 157

At the gas station 200
ATF (automatic transmission fluid) 206
Attaching a trailer 194
Automatic antiglare for rear

view mirror 119

Automatic central locking

Activating 89
Deactivating 89

Economy mode 125
Rear passenger compartment 131
Rear window defroster 131
Residual heat utilization 130
Residual ventilation 130
Switching off 127
Switching on 126

Automatic headlamp mode 103
Automatic interior lighting control

Activating 107
Deactivating 107

Automatic locking when driving 89
Automatic transmission 113
Accelerator position 117
Emergency operation (Limp Home

Automatic climate control 124

Mode) 117

Adjusting air distribution 127
Adjusting air volume 127
Air conditioning 129
Air outlets 132
Air recirculation mode 128
Basic setting 127
Changing basic setting 127
Defrosting 128

Gear ranges 114
Gear selector lever position 115
Gear shifting malfunctions 117
Kickdown 117
Manual shifting 113
One-touch gearshifting 113
Selector lever position 113
Towing a trailer 117
Transmission fluid 206

B BabySmartTM

Airbag deactivation system 65
Compatible child seats 65, 293
Self-test 66

BabySmartTM airbag deactivation

system 293

Backrest tilt 35
Backup lamps 248, 251

Bulbs 248
BAS 73, 293

Malfunction indicator lamp 225, 226
Warning lamp 225, 226

Batteries, remote control

Changing 243

Batteries, vehicle 207
Battery discharged

Jump starting 264
Battery indicator lamp Indicator lamp 233

Battery, vehicle 207, 261

Charging 262
Disconnecting 261
Reconnecting 262
Reinstalling 262
Removing 262

Bi-Xenon headlamps* 293
Block heater 214
Blocking

Rear door window operation 69

Brake assist system (BAS) 293
Brake fluid 286
Brake lamp bulbs 248
Brake lamp, high mounted 248
Brake pad wear

Indicator lamp 234

Brakes 180

Warning lamp 228

Break-in period 178
Bulbs, replacing 247

Additional turn signals 247
Backup lamps 248
Brake lamps 248
Fog lamps 247
Front fog lamp 251
Front lamps 247
High beam 247
High mounted brake lamp 248, 252
License plate lamps 248, 252
Low beam 247
Parking lamps 247, 248, 250
Rear fog lamp 248

Index

Rear fog lamps 251
Rear side marker lamp bulbs 251
Side marker lamps 247, 248, 250
Standing lamps 247, 248
Tail lamp assemblies 248, 251
Turn signal lamps 247, 248, 250

CAC (Customer Assistance Center) 293
Calibrating compass 174
California

Important notice 11

Calling up

Service indicator 216

CAN system 293
Capacities

Fuels, coolants, lubricants, etc. 284

Cargo area cover blind* 143

Closing 143
Installing 143
Opening 143
Removing 143

Cargo area see Cargo compartment 85
Cargo compartment

Liftgate 85
Lighting 109
Tie-down rings 140

301

Index

Cargo floor plates 144

Installing 144
Removing 144
Storing 144

Cargo tie-down rings 140
Catalytic converter 198
CD-changer* 238
Center console 27
Lower part 28
Upper part 27

Central locking

Automatic 89
From inside 89
Switch 90
Unlocking from inside 89, 90

Central locking switch 90
Certification label 276
Charge indicator lamp 233
Charging

Vehicle battery 262

Chart

Fuses 271

CHECK ENGINE malfunction indicator

lamp 232

Checking

Coolant level 201, 206

302

Oil level 201, 203
Tire inflate pressure 201
Vehicle lighting 201

Checking weights

Trailer and vehicle 193

Checklist

Off-road driving 187
Returning from off-road driving 191

MB Tex upholstery 222
Plastic and rubber parts 222
Seat belts 221
Steering wheel 221
Windows 220
Windshield 48
Wiper blades 220

Cleaning and care of the vehicle see

Child safety 63
Airbags 56
Infant and child restraint systems 54,

Vehicle care 217

Clock 26, 112
Closing

60, 63

LATCH child seat mounts 68

Child safety switch see Blocking of rear

door window operation 69

Cigarette lighter

Front center console 156

Cleaning

Cup holder 221
Gear selector lever 221
Hard plastic trim items 221
Headlamps 121
Headliner 221
Instrument cluster 221
Leather upholstery 222
Light alloy wheels 221

Glove box 152
Hood 203
Liftgate 88
Rear quarter windows* 136
Side windows 135
Sliding/pop-up roof 246
Sliding/pop-up roof* 137

Closing sliding/pop-up roof

In an emergency 246

Cockpit 22, 293
Combination switch 102

High beam flasher 47, 102
Turn signals 47
Windshield wipers 47

Index

Compass 173

Calibrating 174
Setting compass zone 174

Compass zone 174
Consumer information 291
Control and operation of radio

transmitters 197
Coolant 206, 287

Adding 206
Anticorrosion/antifreeze quantity 288
Checking level 206
Indicator lamp 230
Temperature 199
Temperature gauge 111

Coolant level

Checking 201, 206
Crossing obstacles 190
Cruise control 146, 293

Canceling 147
Driving downhill 147
Driving uphill 147
Fine adjustment 148
LOW RANGE mode 148
Saving current speed 147
Setting speeds 148

Cruise control lever 146
Cup holder 154
Cleaning 221
In front seat armrest 155
In instrument panel 154
In rear centerconsole 155

Rear window defroster 131
Residual heat 130
Seat heater 91
Tow-away alarm 80
Tow-away alarm (vehicles with trip

computer*) 80

Customer Assistance Center (CAC) 293

Tow-away alarm (vehicles without trip

Daytime running lamp mode 103
Deactivating

Air conditioning (cooling) 129
Air recirculation mode 129
Alarm 79
Anti-theft alarm system 79
Automatic climate control 125, 127
Cruise control 147
Defrost 128
Engine 51
ESP 76
Front fog lamps, rear fog lamp 105
Hazard warning flasher 106
Headlamps 51
Immobilizer 78
Rear passenger compartment

ventilation and climate control 131

computer) 81

Deactivating automatic central locking 89
Deep water see Standing water 185
Defogging

Windshield 128

Defrosting 128
Difficulties

While driving see Problems while

driving 49

With starting 45

Direction of rotation (tires) 210
Discharged battery

Jump starting 264

Disconnecting

Vehicle battery 261

Display

Engine oil level 204

Display in the speedometer 111

303

Index

Display messages

Error 235
Service indicator (FSS) 235
StArt 235

Displays

Service indicator 215
Distance remaining 175
Door entry lamps 107
Door unlock

With Tele Aid* 167

Doors

Opening from inside vehicle 86
Opening from outside 85

Downhill driving

Cruise control 147

Downshifting 113
Drink holder see Cup holder 155
Drinking and driving 179
Driving 40, 45
Abroad 197
General instructions 179
In winter 184
Problems 49
Safety systems 71
Through standing water 185

Driving abroad 197

304

Driving instructions 179
Towing a trailer 194

Driving off 181
Driving safety systems

4-ETS 73
ABS 71
BAS 73
ESP 75

Driving systems 146

Cruise control 146
Driving safety systems 71
EBP 74
Parktronic* 149

Driving through water 189

Easy entry/exit feature* 95
EBP 74

Indicator lamp 229

Economy mode

Automatic climate control 125

Electric air pump 238
Electrical connections

Trailer 192

Electrical fuses 271
Electrical outlet 158

Electrical system

Technical data 281

Electronic Brake Proportioning see EBP Electronic Stability Program see ESP 25,

75

Electronic stability program see ESP 294
Electronic Traction System see 4-ETS 25
Emergency call system Requirements 160

Emergency call system* 160
Emergency calls

Initiating an emergency call 163
With Tele Aid* 161

Emergency operation (Limp Home

Mode) 117

Emergency operations

Closing sliding/pop-up roof 246
Locking the vehicle 243
Opening sliding/pop-up roof 246
Remote door unlock 167
Unlocking the vehicle 242
Emergency tensioning device

see ETD 62, 294

Emission control 198
Emission control label 276

Index

Engine

Compartment 202
Starting 44
Technical data 278
Turning off 51

Engine cleaning 219
Engine compartment Fuse box in 271
Hood 202

Engine malfunction indicator lamp 25, 232
Engine number 293
Engine oil 203, 286
Adding 204, 205
Additives 286
Checking level 203
Consumption 203
Filler neck 205
Viscosity 294

Engine oil level indicator 204
Engine oil level see Oil level 201
Enlarged cargo area 93
Error

Display messages 235

ESP 25, 75, 294

LOW RANGE mode 76
Malfunction indicator lamp 225, 226

Switching off 76
Switching on 77
Warning lamp 224, 225, 226

ETD 294

Safety guidelines 57

ETD (Emergency Tensioning Device) 54
ETD (Emergency tensioning device) 62
Exterior mirrors Folding 120

Exterior rear view mirrors 38