Mercedes-Benz Operator's Manual M-Class W163

Mercedes-Benz Operator's Manual M-Class W163 | PDF

Owner's manual to learn about the operation, driving and specifications of the Mercedes-Benz ML 350 and ML 500 of the W163 Series.

The first-generation M-Class represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the modern SUV segment. Its development aimed to combine passenger-car comfort, safety and road behavior with the versatility, interior space and off-road ability expected from a sport utility vehicle.

Built at the Tuscaloosa plant in Alabama, the W163 used a separate frame, independent suspension on both axles and electronically controlled permanent four-wheel drive. Following the mid-cycle update, the range received changes to its design, equipment and engines, including the versions covered by this document.

This Operator's Manual helps the owner identify the controls and understand the vehicle systems. It also explains passenger-compartment configurations, cargo use, off-road driving, trailer towing, warning messages and basic owner procedures.

Models included in this W163 Series Operator's Manual

• Mercedes-Benz ML 350, type 163.157, equipped with the 3,724 cc M112 V6 engine.
• Mercedes-Benz ML 500, type 163.175, equipped with the 4,966 cc M113 V8 engine.

Getting started and occupant safety

• Remote unlocking with folding key.
• Seat, steering-wheel and mirror adjustment.
• Engine starting and seat-belt use.
• Front, side-impact and window-curtain airbags.
• Child-restraint systems.
• Rear-window blocking.
• Anti-theft alarm and tow-away protection.

Controls and interior equipment

The manual illustrates the cockpit, instrument cluster, center console and overhead control panel. These diagrams help locate the switches and recognize the indicators before driving.

It also explains central locking, front seats, memory functions, head restraints, heated seats and the rear bench. Instructions cover the optional third-row seats and the different passenger and cargo configurations.

Climate control, visibility and comfort functions

• Automatic climate control.
• Rear-passenger-compartment ventilation.
• Residual heat utilization.
• Power windows and rear quarter windows.
• Power tilt/sliding sunroof.
• Power-folding exterior mirrors.
• Windshield wipers and headlamp cleaning.
• Parktronic parking assistance.
• Telephone, Tele Aid and garage-door opener.

Automatic transmission and driving

The documentation explains selector-lever positions, one-touch gearshifting, gear ranges and emergency operation. It also provides guidance concerning fuel consumption, braking, tires, hydroplaning, winter driving and standing water.

Additional sections cover trailer towing, driving abroad and the correct use of radio transmitters installed in the vehicle.

Off-road driving

A dedicated section explains vehicle preparation, route selection and speed adjustment. It covers slopes, descents, uneven surfaces, mud, sand, water crossings and the inspections required after returning to a conventional road.

Traction, braking and stability

• Permanent four-wheel drive.
• 4-ETS electronic traction system.
• LOW RANGE mode.
• ABS antilock braking system.
• BAS brake assist system.
• EBP electronic brake proportioning.
• ESP electronic stability program.
• Cruise control.

Cargo and interior versatility

• Folding rear bench seat.
• Optional third-row seats.
• Partition net.
• Cargo-compartment cover.
• Cargo-floor plates.
• Roof rack.
• Storage compartments and cup holders.
• Loading and cargo-securing instructions.

Maintenance and vehicle messages

The manual explains how to call up and reset the maintenance service indicator. It also helps interpret warning lamps and messages relating to the engine, brakes, transmission, safety systems, fluid levels and tire pressures.

Routine checks and practical procedures

• Engine-oil, coolant and automatic-transmission-fluid checks.
• Battery and washer system.
• Tire pressure, rotation and wear.
• First aid kit, vehicle tools and spare wheel.
• Emergency vehicle and fuel-filler-flap unlocking.
• Manual selector-lever release.
• Battery, bulb and wiper-blade replacement.
• Jump starting.
• Vehicle towing and recovery.
• Fuses and electrical boxes.

These instructions provide useful assistance for routine situations and preserve the documentation appropriate to the vehicle. They do not replace workshop-manual diagnostics or repair procedures.

Technical data and service products

The documentation identifies the vehicle labels and provides specifications for the engines, electrical system, wheels, tires, dimensions, weights and Poly-V-belt. It also lists capacities for each version.

The engine-oil, fuel, brake-fluid, coolant and air-conditioning-refrigerant recommendations should be checked before modern equivalents are used.

File details

• Format: PDF.
• Language: English.
• Pages: 356.
• File size: 4.2 MB.
• Delivery: instant download link.