Mercedes-Benz ML 2005–2011
Mercedes-Benz ML 2005–2011
The second generation Mercedes-Benz ML (W164) appeared at the beginning of 2005, having changed the model with the index 163 on the conveyor belt. Instead of a frame structure, the car tried on a monocoque body, in the suspension the torsion bars gave way to a spring double-lever in the front and a four-lever in the rear, and the wheelbase increased from 2820 to 2915 mm. Moreover, the standard one is, in fact, a crossover. It has permanent four-wheel drive, and the 4-ETS (Four Electronic Traction Support) system, as in the previous M-class, brakes the slipping wheels. However, the ML offered the Pro Off-Road package, which includes air suspension, a 2-speed transfer case, and center and rear differential locks. With such an arsenal, he becomes a professional rogue.
The geography of Mercedes-Benz ML is wide: there are both dealer cars and examples brought from America and Europe on the market. And any of the options can be safely considered as a purchase.
Engine
The Mercedes-Benz ML was first equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 (272 hp) and a 5-liter V8 (306 hp). Turbodiesels were represented by a 3.0-liter V6 (190 and 224 hp) and a 4-liter V8 (306 hp). After restyling, the petrol V8 increased in volume to 5.5 liters (388 hp).
The basic V6 3.5 l (M272) is the most massive and most problematic. Chronic sore - premature wear of the cermet gear (4200 rubles) driving the balance shaft. Because of this, not only the valve timing "went away", but also the shavings got into the oil pump (7,500 rubles), putting it out of action. Repair is carried out with the removal of the engine and is expensive - from 70,000 rubles. At the same time, the service will probably offer to replace the variable valve timing clutches (21,000 rubles) and the timing chain. Be sure to agree - they won't live long either.
At the same time, on a run of 50–80 thousand km, plastic vortex flaps of the intake manifold seized, which made it necessary to change it entirely (29,000 rubles). Note that these shortcomings have already been eliminated on post-styling machines.
But the old V8 of the E113 series, inherited from its predecessor, is simply unkillable. What can not be said about its 5.5-liter successor - for 50-90 thousand km, the balance shaft has to be updated, the replacement of which is no more expensive than that of the V6, since the engine is not dismantled for this.
Diesel with a Common Rail system is generally reliable. Early cars by 150 thousand km sinned with exhaust manifold wear. Apparently, the material of this unit was selected incorrectly and the metal from its inner surface “crumbled”, and wear products, getting into the turbine, “killed” it. It's a shame - after all, under normal conditions, the resource of the Garret turbocharger (from 128,000 rubles) is 350 thousand km. It is necessary to change the glow plugs carefully - due to the "sticking" of the thread, you can damage the head of the block.
Transmission
Buyers of Mercedes-Benz ML will not have to bother with the choice of a gearbox - all cars come with a 7-speed "automatic". Trouble was often caused by the valve body, the solenoids of the control valves (4500 rubles each) of which were out of order by 100 thousand km. The box began to twitch and stutter during acceleration. If the disease is started, then the clutch package will soon be "infected". After 150 thousand, the oil pump is usually rented (15,000 rubles), the selector of the "automatic machine" refuses to switch, the electronic control unit ECM does not withstand the heat test (30,000 rubles). But all these defects, except for one - leaks of cooling tubes of the "machine" - were eliminated after restyling.
The Pro Off-Road drivetrain is built to last. The transfer case, as well as the "automatic", usually withstands 200 thousand km. Sometimes the chain stretches before this period (9500 rubles) and the bearings begin to buzz. However, the soundtrack can also come from the outboard bearing, which at dealers changes at the same time as the cardan shaft (40,000 rubles). In specialized technical centers, the bearing can be replaced separately for 6500 rubles. After 150 thousand km, it is necessary to change the front gearbox (43,000 rubles), the imminent death of which will be heralded by hum and vibrations.
Chassis and body
The spring suspension of a standard Mercedes-Benz ML is as strong as a tank armor. The first in the front suspension for 60-90 thousand km are the stabilizer struts (1,500 rubles each). And only at 120-150 thousand km comes the turn of shock absorbers (10,800 rubles each) and lower levers (3,500 rubles each), which become unusable due to the wear of their silent blocks. Rear suspension elements are even more reliable and last on average one and a half times longer. The only exceptions are shock absorbers (8,500 rubles each), which nurture an average of 100-130 thousand km.
In the steering, after 100 thousand km, the thrust is changed (2300 rubles each). The rail takes care of 200 thousand km, but it can start to leak much earlier than this period - it is eliminated by installing oil seals and seals from a repair kit (from 1000 rubles). And if it starts tapping, first of all check the steering shaft cardan (8000 rubles). But the power steering pumps (22,000 rubles) at first were often changed under warranty. When replacing, it is advisable to update the tank, the filter mesh of which quickly becomes clogged.
Airmatic air suspension is more finicky and costly. Pneumatic springs rarely withstand more than 120-140 thousand km, but they are not cheap: the front ones, complete with shock absorbers - 52,000 rubles each, and the rear ones - 14,000 rubles each. To prolong their life, it is advisable to flush the cylinders with each wash. And if the car starts to emit extraneous knocks when driving through irregularities, check the fastening of the front pneumatic elements to the struts - the fasteners weaken over time and require a banal broach.
The body is distinguished by its heroic resistance to corrosion, and the paintwork is durable. Even chrome-plated parts do not lose their gloss for many years. The main thing is that a handicraft car restored after an accident is not sold to you under the guise of a worthy copy.
But the electrician brings unpleasant surprises with age: interruptions in the operation of the climate control, the heater motor torments with serenades, the air damper servos begin to live their own lives (8 pieces, 3500 rubles each), the sound signal and buttons on the steering wheel fail, swallows CDs -player ... Moreover, the treatment is by no means cheap.
Modification
For almost all of its models, Mercedes-Benz offers charged AMG versions. And the M-class is no exception. Moreover, it should be noted that from the point of view of the margin of safety and durability, these modifications are preferable to civilian ML. Indeed, in the manufacture of these machines, stricter quality control is applied. Engines are assembled by hand - each has a personal stamp of the master, who gives the motor an almost lifetime warranty. And the automatic 7-speed transmissions are adjusted and refined to "digest" the higher torque. Externally, the ML 63 AMG is distinguished by other bumpers and an aerodynamic body kit around the perimeter of the body. Under the hood is a petrol 6.2-liter V8 equipped with a compressor. The motor develops 510 hp. and 630 Nm, which allows the heavy SUV to accelerate to 100 km / h in just 5.0 seconds, and the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km / h. By the way, the V8 does not suffer from a lack of appetite.
For cars Mercedes ML-class in the back of W166 a wide range of Mercedes-Benz engines is installed. All engines are developed by Daimler and are produced in our own factories.
The motors are reliable but require constant maintenance. To maintain the working condition, it is important not only to refuel the car on time, but also to strictly follow the rules of service and maintenance.
By following the recommendations prescribed by the manufacturer, you can ensure long-term and problem-free operation of the vehicle and its engine.
Variety of W166 motors
The following motors are installed on the Mercedes GL-class:
Important!
It is worth saying that most of the listed engines are installed not only on the ML-class, but also on other Mercedes models, and the engine REPAIR PROCESS on different Mercedes models is identical.
Malfunctions of W166 engines
Mercedes engines are reliable enough. But their reliability depends not only on how they were designed and assembled, but also on the quality of their service. Any malfunction of the motor begins to manifest itself long before the unit fails or a serious breakdown is detected.
Pay attention to the following symptoms:
- Loss of engine thrust and rough operation;
- Strong vibration from the motor;
- The need for constant topping up of engine oil;
- The appearance of extraneous noise when starting the car;
- Extraneous engine noise on a running car (knocking, crackling, hissing, metallic clanging);
- Oil leak or low engine oil level error;
- Check Engine Error Indication.
These are not all manifestations of a malfunctioning Mercedes engine, but one of the most frequent
If any of the listed symptoms is detected or if a malfunction is suspected, it is recommended to diagnose the Mercedes engine, identify the source of the breakdown and take appropriate measures.
Repair of the Mercedes ML-class W166 engine
High-quality can only be provided by a specialized service that has the necessary repair experience, has a special tool available and can promptly provide all the necessary spare parts.
Warranty is an important aspect of the repair that worries every client, because most often the repair costs "a pretty penny". We comply with our obligations throughout the entire warranty period, which is 1 year from the date of repair work.
Spare parts are one of the key points of repair, because the quality of the spare part determines how the engine will work and how long it will work. Our own warehouse and prompt deliveries from Germany allow us to carry out any complex engine repairs in a short time, and a wide selection of spare parts (original or alternative replacement) can significantly reduce its cost.
Preliminary diagnostics of a Mercedes engine is an integral part of a successful repair. Only after making sure of the correctness of the chosen direction, you can significantly reduce the cost of repairs, eliminate the likelihood of additional and unnecessary work.
A full consultation, in our Technical Center, can be obtained based on the results of a comprehensive diagnostics of a Mercedes engine. The foreman will draw up a preliminary repair order indicating all work and spare parts, which will be handed over to the client for making a decision. We will suggest the best troubleshooting options.
Repair conditions, terms of work and cost are agreed in advance with the client and documented, by the corresponding repair order.
The third generation of the Mercedes ML crossover (W166) is, in fact, a completely new car. "Giblets", power structure and chassis are deeply reworked, a couple of interesting chips have appeared. But the new look raises concerns. Will Mercedes scare away fans with its experiments? I went to Austria for the answer. Here, for two days in a row, I ironed with ML everything that got under the wheel - from unlimited autobahns and alpine serpentines to a broken off-road track. Impressed!
Before I met, I never look at the performance characteristics. I try to "zero" and forget everything I know about the new product. Opening the car on the move, passing it through yourself "blindly", is much more interesting and useful. So go ahead
Already after a twenty-minute drive on the top-end petrol ML 350 on the autobahns, it became clear: the new chassis is a breakthrough! What's in the sensation? Mmmmm… One can feel the smell of burning. The M-Class has really blossomed and is now ready to roast Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5 on the asphalt. Stuttgart tried hard. The difference compared to the previous generation is staggering. A couple of days before the test, I took the previous ML (W164) - also 350th. Refresh the sensations. Refreshed! .. I did not expect such a blow. Heaven and earth! Recent Mercedes is a drive. Sports notes from model to model come out more and more.
The drag coefficient of the new ML is 0.32. Previously, this indicator was equal to 0.36
Unlimited autobahns quickly ended and were replaced by winding Austrian serpentines. Beauty! One by one I burst the turns. Perfectly tangible "zero", lightning-fast reaction, an increase in effort adequate to the angle of rotation, information about the micro-profile on the steering wheel - mix, but do not shake. Self-sufficient and without fanaticism. Previously, the steering gear could not boast of such transparency. Thanks to the new ZF electric booster (previously it was hydro). And not only to him! My car has a mechatronic chassis with an advanced On & Offroad package, which includes air springs, active shock absorbers and active Curve Control anti-roll bars.
The On & Offroad package provides an extended range of clearance adjustment and as many as six algorithms for the mechatronic chassis for different conditions: for towing a trailer, driving on slippery surfaces, sports, automatic, for driving on dirt roads and off-road. In these modes, the suspension stiffness settings are changed in combination with changes in the behavior of the gearbox, dynamic stability control and electric power steering.
Improvement and change of the technological process occurs "in the course of the play." The same applies to the algorithms for the operation of various electronic systems. This is fine. I remember that the system for monitoring signs on the SLK, C- and E-Class missed 5-10% of the signs. Now the system works smoothly, but what's interesting is that the camera fishes out and displays on the monitors the restriction signs pasted on the rear sides of the trucks! On one of the test samples, the rain sensor "glitched" - even during a light rain, the system turned on the highest speed. We hope that with the release of the series all the "glitches" will be eliminated.
"Auto" is the most versatile, here the settings of all elements change automatically depending on the driving conditions and the nature of the driver's behavior. In "sports" the efficiency of the electric booster decreases, the steering wheel "gets heavier", the engine-box tandem more readily and more often holds high revs and a lower gear, while the shock absorbers become stiffer, and active anti-roll bars dampen the roll. How? The trick of the "stubs" is that their right and left parts are connected through a fluid coupling, which is managed by the electronics. The latter monitors lateral accelerations and controls the hydraulics so that the clutch advances and loads the stabilizer halves with torque relative to each other, and thereby compensates for the roll. In a straight motion, the halves, on the other hand, are completely "untied" to ensure maximum comfort.
The paddle shifters are now mirrored. Now you don't need to get used to the unusually low position of the multifunctional control lever for turn signals, lights and wipers when changing into ML. Ergonomists took into account the long-standing remarks of Mercedes owners and decided to change the arrangement of the levers. This fate will befall all models. The seat adjustment keys have finally moved to the door panels.
In the shell of the multifunctional Comand system, "navigation", a parking camera (the trajectory of movement is indicated here depending on the steering wheel rotation), digital radio and TV tuners, a DVD changer ... and assigned to the "washer" installed on the central tunnel (previously the control was on the dashboard)
The ergonomics of the front seats are still excellent. Pneumatic lumbar support, developed lateral support ... On a long journey - it is. The range of adjustments (vertically and horizontally) of the steering column is always enough. The space has been added to the width. At the level of the elbows, 34 millimeters were added at the front, and 25 at the rear. The base of the car, however, as well as the length of the cabin, remained the same.
The "split" backrest of the rear seat (divided into two or three segments depending on the version) is adjustable in tilt. This adds more comfort and flexibility when storing bulky cargo. A three-zone climate system is optionally available (the weather at the back is the same for all and is regulated by means of “branded” keys and “wheels”) and a three-zone multimedia system Comand. In the latter, individual monitors are installed for the rear outer passengers, working with wireless headphones
Let's go back to the serpentine. I, of course, go to "sports" and can not get enough food. The understeer character is neutral. The trick of a crossover with such capabilities is that, in terms of steering response and habits, it is a passenger car. Oh-oh-oh-very light and oh-oh-oh-very well-tuned! The fact that you tumble into a bunch of turns on a heavy two-ton four-wheel drive with a rather big moment of inertia and a high center of gravity is remembered only when the tires squeak. Frankly, this happens unexpectedly - the rolls are really not great, and you don't expect a "set-up" until the very last moment. Good, damn it!
The metal "pyataks" in the front cupholders for cooling and heating drinks are "moved" from the previous generation. Semiconductor Peltier elements, when cooled, keep a temperature of about 0 degrees, when heated - about 70
Both axles go into sliding at once. And it's worth a lot! But earlier, at the limit, the crossover loved to slip out of the bend with the front wheels ... And the stabilization system worked much rougher. Without waiting for the slides, she "choked" and "bit" the "ML-ku" that was in the urine, and did not let go for a long time. The electronic collar is now less intrusive. Advanced drivers will get much more pleasure with such settings. The car is clearer.
The volume of the luggage compartment varies from 690 (along the window sill with unfolded seats) to 2010 liters. The content of "underground" is version dependent. There may be an organizer with a pneumatic air receiver and a repair kit for wheels, spring versions can be equipped with full-size spare parts
At the same time, the ESP algorithms (it is non-disconnectable) are more perfect here. "I'm scared" and abruptly tear the steering wheel to the right! Slipping, saving crunch of brakes ... And after a couple of tenths of a second I was already on a trajectory that I did not even expect. The car, ignoring the laws of physics, literally screwed into the turn, independently reducing the radius of the arc ... Interesting movie! We managed to experience the same on a small "three-dimensional" track, which the Germans had saved for dessert!
All is well, but the versions without active stabilizers, with slightly softer suspension settings, lack such gloss in handling. I wonder how the modification behaves with conventional springs and shock absorbers? Unfortunately, there were no such machines on the test.
What else is inherent in the new ML? Excessive damping. It seemed to me that with noise and vibration suppression (the engine stands on supports with solenoids that actively suppress vibration), the creators went too far here. The previous ML is noticeably noisier, the main source there is tires. The new crossover is quieter than water below the grass. Only the hysterical-metallic sound of the engine and exhaust under full throttle sometimes comes to the fore. But it is not at all intrusive, as if the sources of sound are about sixty meters away from you ... ML declares to everyone sitting inside: “Purebred I, yes! Well, there is and is, why focus attention? "
The design of the suspension guide vanes has not changed - there are double wishbones in front, a multi-link in the back. However, all the "bones" - levers and "fists" - are now forged aluminum. All this economy is assembled on stretchers made of high-strength steel. On the basic spring version with amplitude-dependent characteristics of the shock absorbers, this time I was not able to ride. I had several versions at my disposal with active air suspension and variable damping shock absorbers. Conventional pneumatics change the ground clearance in the range of 180–255 mm. But with the On & OffRoad package, the clearance can reach 285 mm. This clearance is available at speeds up to 20 km / h. As the speed increases, the clearance is automatically reduced.
When nothing bothers the riders even at speeds "over two hundred" - that's fine. But not for the driver! The underestimated level of noise and vibration distorts the sense of reality. And having a good engine under the hood is doubly dangerous. Breaking firewood is as easy as shelling pears. It seems that it has just started, ba-a-a-a-a-a - the arrow is already at the turn of "160"! It seemed to be driving quietly ... Exactly! Quiet doesn't mean slow. To accelerate uncontrollably on ML is now a snap! But do not stop, the information content of the brake drive is traditional for Mercedes - the pedal is "cotton". Well, when will the Stuttgart people finally make normal brakes ?!
We will not have "diesels" with BlueTec urea technology for exhaust cleaning. Urea works up to minus 11 degrees Celsius. Below, new 7G-Tronic Plus torque converter seven-speed gearbox with new vibration damper
And what about the motors? At first, ML will be offered three units. In Europe, these are two turbodiesels with BlueTec urea exhaust cleaning technology and a BlueEfficiency 3.5-liter gasoline engine. The weak 2.2-liter four-cylinder "diesel" on the ML 250 version develops 204 hp. (at 4200 rpm) and 500 Nm (in the range 1600-1800 rpm). The three-liter "six" on the ML 350 BlueTec is much more dynamic, it produces 258 "horses" (at 3600 rpm) and a destructive torque of 620 "Newtons" (1600-2400 rpm). With this engine, the gasoline six-cylinder counterpart with direct injection argues, which develops 306 forces (at 6500 rpm) and 370 Nm (at 3500-5250 rpm).
ML in the "base" has a DSR descent assist system (works in two directions and allows you to adjust the speed) and auto-hold. For an additional fee, active cruise control is available, which in case of danger is able to urgently stop the car, a system for tracking the markings and returning the car to the lane (the trajectory changes by braking the wheels of one side), a monitoring system for "dead" zones and a switchable ECO Start / Stop function, which allows you to start the engine even by turning the steering wheel
With the initial motor, everything is clear - this is an honest hard worker. It is for those who are more committed to the pleasure of economy, rather than driving. And what about high power levels? To be honest, I have not decided for myself which of the six-cylinder options I would prefer. If we compare the figures, then the gasoline engine in the sprint up to “hundreds” loses to the diesel engine by 0.2 seconds. But subjectively, the opposite is true. The gasoline engine appears to be more dynamic due to the smoother traction that is available over a wider range. The gears here are also "longer", while the 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed gearbox shifts faster here (on the diesel version, the shift is slower, the clutches save from excess torque) and, by the way, less often (the operating speed range of the gasoline engine is wider). Diesel accelerates faster in current gears and is preferable for towing heavy trailers. But the work of the tandem of the box and the gasoline engine as a whole is better coordinated.
However, let's get into the quarry. The situation with off-road qualities has changed. And not for the better. ML lost the rear differential lock (the lockable "center" and the downshift remained on the versions with the On & Offroad package), and the maximum ground clearance (I mean the version with air suspension) decreased by 6 mm. In the quarry, I drove, of course, an ML-ke with On & Offroad and special toothy tires. And what? M-class climbs are less confident now. Previously, it was possible to forcibly block the center and rear differentials (a car with an off-road package), now the "center" is blocked only automatically, and when hanging diagonally, ABS fights against the slipping wheels, and already "in fact".
The new ML is capable of wading with a depth of 600 mm.
Off-road geometry is almost the main thing, ML has everything in order with it! The rogue will get through anywhere. It's not cool that the plastic protection at the bottom of the bumper is chrome-plated. Rich, of course, but contact fight with obstacles chrome will not stand
All this economy works quickly and adequately, in general, there is nothing to complain about! But on the previous generation with "locked" differentials it was more reliable. It is clear that 98.999999% of ML buyers do not get to such off-road, where you can feel the difference ... But the fact remains. On a muddy slope with a bend causing diagonal hanging, the previous transmission option is preferable. Although the new ML climbs clearly better than the BMW X5, which has an electronically controlled multi-plate friction package in its all-wheel drive system. The clutch connects the front axle on demand, but on heavy off-road it quickly overheats and deactivates (20 minutes of dynamic drive is enough) ... So at the most inopportune moment, the Bavarian can stay with a mono-drive ... But the Cayenne, equipped with an advanced transmission, with ML is capable of off-road argue. And how!
Previously, on machines with an off-road package, it was possible to forcibly lock the center and center differentials (they could also be locked automatically). Off-road the car was more convincing.
The "comfort" mode was unsuitable for gentle waves. The crossover swayed strongly from bow to stern. Dangerously. On the comb, unsprung masses with a couple of damped vibrations strove to reach the body. In addition, the ML rolls pretty well in the corners. Moreover, the joints and potholes with sharp edges, and in this mode, the crossover was hard. Now everything is completely different. Even in sport mode, the car is more comfortable.
ML sold well in the post-crisis period. In the disastrous 2009, 1689 units were sold in Russia, in 2010 - 2392. And the previous generation sold around the world with a circulation of 1.2 million copies.
Interior ML of the current, or now the previous generation (W164). The control lever for active cruise control DISTRONIC + was previously on the top left, now it “moved” under the universal control lever for turn signals, lights and wipers. Seat adjusters on the side of the seat
In Germany, taking into account taxes, the ML 250 BlueTEC will cost in the range of € 46,200 - € 54,978. The diesel "350" - from € 49,350 to € 58,700. The petrol version of the ML 350 BlueEfficiency "starts" from € 47,700 and "Ends" € 56 763. The rise in price in Germany is quite insignificant, but our car will become "heavier" by an average of 5% in terms of money and will appear next spring, unlike Europe, where it will be possible to order a new crossover in November.
The power structure of the body was thoroughly shaken up. The mass remains the same, but the rigidity has increased. The absorption and distribution of impact forces has become more perfect. A wide range of steels are used in the supporting structure. Purple is for ultra-high-strength steel, red for high-strength steel, silver for steel, blue for aluminum, and blue for magnesium cast parts. The maximum ML has 9 airbags per lap. The effectiveness of the front airbags depends on the collision speed
Let us remind you that the initial version with a 190-horsepower diesel engine now costs 2,590,000 rubles. We will definitely have a 306-horsepower petrol variation and a 260-horsepower diesel (the latter, however, without BlueTEC urea exhaust cleaning technology). The issue with the modification ML 250 with a weak four-cylinder "diesel" is being resolved. ML 500 with a five-liter 408-horsepower "eight" and ML 63 AMG will appear a few months later. What's in the bottom line? If we discard (albeit not insignificant) gadgets, we will see that on the asphalt the new ML has become much prettier, the power structure has become more perfect, which means it is safer, but off-road the crossover has become a little weaker. It's a pity.
Vitaly Kabyshev
Photo: Vitaly Kabyshev and Mercedes
To begin with, let's define what can be called a hi-fi level system, and what does not reach this understanding. In the car audio environment, certain stereotypes have developed on this topic. And I will voice them here.
A Stock-style system (when all the equipment is installed in its original places) cannot be hi-fi level. Many people think so, and for good reason. The main disadvantage is the location of the standard speakers. Despite the fact that the acoustics are changing for high quality, regular grills remain. Few of the owners are ready to go to the bottom of the alteration, for example, door trims, in order to properly place the non-standard midbass.
The same story with tweeters. Often, a regular place is not the best option for placing a tweeter, but few people want to go for a radical revision.
It is for this reason that most of the installations (and about 90% of the installations all studios do in the Stock style) fall short of a serious hi-fi level. This is not just a theory, but a practice proven in car audio competitions.
The other extreme is serious hi-fi, and sometimes Hi-end.Telling about it doesn't make much sense. I'll just say that in serious systems, the price levels for equipment are so serious that any sane person, having heard how much, for example, a set of top-end acoustics from Focal costs, will simply twirl his finger at his temple (secretly -under a million rubles )
But there is also a golden mean. Normal hi-fi. Let's call it that. Or - the initial level of a serious approach to car audio. This is when a system is being built that takes into account to the maximum both the wishes of the client regarding the preservation of the interior and free space and the requests of the installer who needs a place and something needs to be redone.
It is about such a system based on the Mercedes ML in the back of the W166 that I will tell you.
The car was bought once in the simplest (in terms of sound) configuration. There was a simple command and 2 sets of acoustics. Over time, the owner did only one thing, but the correct action was to change the simple Command to Command 4.5 NTG. The difference is not only in the quality of these devices, but in the fact that 4.5NTG has an optical MOST bus output. This means that you can pick up an almost perfect wideband signal from it and feed it into a new system. Actually, optics is, as it were, an ideal medium for signal transmission (pure digital, no distortion and interference).
At the time of his visit to our studio, the client did not think about the Hifi system. The conversation began with the classical system. Like this:
But at the time of the conversation, it was decided that we would build the initial hifi.
Such a scheme has formed
the main interesting technical solutions are described in our , which was driven on this car at the time of work. Here I will tell you about the main points of the installation and show what happened in the end.
So the car
the nominal arrangement of the midbass speakers is the same in almost all cars - the lower front part of the door. The location of the tweeters is different for everyone. in Mercedes they are located in plastic trims - "triangles" of the rear-view mirrors. Those. there is a 2-component front speaker in the car
in the back door is about the same. And also - 2-component acoustics
in design - complete harmony. That is why very few people want to intervene in it and change something.
and here is the trunk. The trunk is the place where spears always break when discussing a project with the owner. Many people want a lot of bass, with a margin and at the same time are not ready to give anything in the trunk. I'm talking about a place. Physics cannot be fooled, and for a 10-inch subwoofer, you need to take at least 15-20 liters of volume in the trunk. And even more for the 12-inch subwoofer. In this case, the stealth case for the subwoofer comes to our rescue. A case that we can hide behind the skin of the car and install a subwoofer speaker in it. Save trunk space and get bass. But stealth isn't cheap.
We disassemble the doors. Without complete insulation of 4 doors (this is the minimum), you shouldn't talk about installing an auto sound at all. If someone tells you that you can simply change the acoustics in the car and you will get a tangible difference - feel free to leave this place. Throw your money away.
The photo shows the standard vibration isolation of the rear door
We withdraw the commands and send them to the Eart service to decode and activate the MOST output
the photo shows the MOST connector above the yellow fuse
we also disassemble the interior, tk. we will make the floor and trunk soundproofing.
We came across a car with air suspension, which means that 2 receivers from it settled in the trunk. in the right sidewall (where we usually put amplifiers in such Mercedes) and in the boot floor. It restricts us very much in place.
there is room for equipment on the left side. But this is if we talk about a simple classical circuit with 1 or 2 amplifiers. We have three of them + a processor.
here's another receiver
standard vibration isolation of the floor does not stand up to criticism
but there are also positive aspects to this car - there is a large niche under the driver, in which we will put some of the equipment
As I wrote above, we are conducting a fairly serious noise and vibration isolation for this car.
Trunk
doors
trim of all doors and trunk
here is the standard soundproofing of the door trim. Piece of pressed padding polyester
and here is the result of our processing. The gray material is noise insulation. Under it, the sheathing is also treated with vibration isolation. And around the perimeter - Antiskrip
Well, now I'll tell you about music.
As a subwoofer link, we have chosen the best subwoofer according to EISA for 2013 - Audison Voce AV10. Although not the smallest speaker, it works great in volumes from 17 liters.
and this volume (even more - which is better) we find in the left side trim. We begin the manufacture of a stealth case made of composite materials: resin + glass mat
the front part of the case - plywood 21 mm
the speaker has a sufficiently large magnetic system and because of this it has to be shifted slightly to the right, which leads to the modernization of the standard casing
in order to beat this beautifully, we make a new grill cover that will cover the subwoofer
it is completely sound transparent
the car will have three new amplifiers. We need a lot of good food. Therefore, from the battery that is under the passenger, we pull the Stinger 2Ga power cables
we pull up to the universal distributor, which is under the back sofa. All the fuses for the amplifiers are right there. If something closes somewhere, then the fuse is the first to "fly out". From the distributor, power in various calibers is distributed throughout the machine - to the amplifiers
the main fuse, which protects the entire power circuit, is installed right next to the battery.
in a niche under the driver, we are building a two-storey podium that will house almost all the equipment. In the subfloor there will be an Alpine monoblock that rocks the subwoofer.
above it are located: the Audison Bit One processor and a 4-channel amplifier for the front midbass and rear acoustics - Hertz
closed niche. For cooling, we cut two low-noise fans into the cover: one is an exhaust fan and the other is a supply fan. Thus, we provide a constant circulation of air in this volume and cooling of the amplifiers.
for this we make ventilation holes in the regular carpet
but we have one more amplifier. It works with the tweeter / midrange speakers of the front acoustics. And this part of the story is just about HiFi. Many who are not particularly versed in the topic of the question, car audio lovers, ask - why did you implement the mid-range / high-frequency range on passive crossovers? After all, you have an 8-channel processor. Of course, yes, there is, but only if you look closely at the diagram, you can see that we have REAR acoustics in the system. This is the client's wish. It is believed that rear acoustics are not needed for high-quality music reproduction, but only for multimedia formats (watching movies and concerts), but if someone drives behind, then many owners want to keep these acoustics.
In this case, we do not have enough channels to implement the "channel-by-channel" scheme, and we combine 4 channels into two. And to separate the signal, a regular passive crossover is installed, which came with the CDT Audio ES632 acoustics. Such a scheme is called in our jargon - "semi-channel" or - "2.5"
and here we are doing "feint with the ears." The amplifier that will play on the mid / high-frequency speakers, although small (CDT Audio MXMX1502), still has dimensions and needs to be put somewhere. He simply does not fit under the driver. Plus we have 2 very decent sized crossovers. And we decide to put all this link - under the subwoofer, in the left wing. Moreover, leaving the ability to quickly configure passive crossovers.
It looks like this (the crossovers are closed with regular nets, and on top - with a bezel)
the processor control panel settled in the place where the ashtray was. We are for car audio and healthy lifestyle, and smoking is a fight!
now a minute of sparkling humor and jokes.
This is a standard speaker system from Mercedes Benz ML, which costs, please, over 2.5 million.
With us, everything is much more serious. For the installation of new midbasses and rear acoustics, we make adapter rings
they will be installed on glass sealant (to enhance contact)
and bolts
front midbasses are connected to the acoustic wiring with spring clips (this is an indicator of serious acoustics, by the way)
and completely finished look like this
rear coaxial speakers CDT Audio HD6EX (in the CDT Audio CL61CV circuit, but it was not there and we chose another one) soldered to the wiring
as interconnect cables in this installation, we use a pre-top cable from Tchernov Cables and Chernov's RCA connectors
ML machine is quite convenient in terms of speaker wiring layout. You can easily "pass" through the standard connectors in the doors and lay the cable without breaking: from the amplifier to the speaker. Which has a positive effect on the sound quality (as we remember, we have a hi-fi system). All wiring is tinned copper from Stinger
all wiring fits into a "snake"
and now we smoothly approached the hifi part of the system - this is the mid / high frequency frontal acoustics. The photo below shows the midrange speaker, which in a three-component system will perform for the most difficult range: 500 Hz - 4 kHz. We have many instruments and vocals in this range. It is believed (and not just like that) that a three-component system is the maximum that can be implemented in a car. And in home acoustics, the situation is about the same.
You've already seen the size of such a speaker. It is unrealistic to put it in some kind of regular place in the Mercedes. There are simply no such places. Therefore, we follow the classic path and place the mid / high-frequency speaker link on the windshield pillars with a slight turn to the salon
direct the speakers to opposite center pillars. The speaker reversal helps us in the end to tune the system with maximum quality and "build" the desired sound stage. Wide and deep. For this, all this hi-fi was conceived
production of racks is carried out according to the classical technology: supplex + resin + glass mat + putty and hours of skimming
we cover the racks with black Alcantara
the speakers are soldered to the wiring
this is the result
and take another look at the trunk, which we have saved completely
To set up such systems, we involve professionals-"listeners" who have authority in the car audio environment. Such systems need to be "uncovered" in terms of sound, and this requires talent and experience.
Here is the frequency response of an unheated system immediately after tuning.
Frequency response of the left and right channels
Frequency response by component (sub, midbass, midrange, high frequency)
after warming up the system, we will "brush" the system a little
The works took 12 working days
In the 90s, SUVs gained immense popularity, even a brand that had never had a "civilian" SUV, apart from the paramilitary "G" -class, released the first generation of the "ML". The production of the Mercedes ML began in 1997, the model carried the W163 index, and the second generation was launched in 2005, the W164 index. The first two generations have sold 1.1 million copies worldwide. The third generation of the Mercedes SUV is produced on a common platform with. The third ML received an index - W166. Mercedes is somewhat inferior in size to such cars as, or, but this is also an advantage in city traffic. The first two generations were very popular in the CIS, as evidenced by the fact that every Mercedes sold in 2012 in Russia was exactly ML - class.
Appearance:
The appearance of the new Mercedes B166, in comparison with its predecessors, can be characterized as more sporty. The car retained the branded rear body pillar, which was also found on the W163. Compared to the previous -W164, the drag coefficient has dropped from 0.34 to 0.32 - a positive factor affecting fuel economy and acoustic comfort. In comparison with its predecessor, the length of the new item has increased by 24mm, width by 15mm, and height by 14mm. 
In the basic version, tires with the dimension 235/65 R17, 255/55 R18 are installed, but twenty-inch tires are offered as an option for the all-wheel drive Mercedes. The horizontal line of LEDs installed in the side air intakes looks very impressive.
Salon:
Words about the highest quality of performance will be superfluous. The car is equipped with the Pre-Safe system, which, if necessary (upon impact), tightens the seat belts, closes the windows and sunroof, and sets the seats to the optimal position from the point of view of safety. 
An optional night vision system is offered - Night Viev Assist Plus, which is known from the S-class W221 executive sedans. The night vision system is able to recognize people. On the armrest, between the seats there is a washer that controls all-wheel drive, the system has six modes: automatic - for daily driving, light off-road - dirt roads and country roads, serious off-road - the area where you need to "climb", Winter - mode for roads covered with snow and ice, trailer - mode for towing a trailer, and mode - Sport. It is very interesting that the sport mode is available only for cars with the optional offroad package, as you know, good cross-country ability contradicts the perfected handling, it looks like the Germans decided to create the most universal vehicle. There are suspension control buttons on the armrest, it is interesting that they are present even in the base, on a car with spring suspension (adjustments are made using special shock absorbers). The basic equipment of the Mercedes ML W166 includes Thermatic dual-zone climate control and cruise control. The seat adjustment buttons are located in the Mercedes style - on the door cards. For the legs of passengers in the second row, 15mm has been added in comparison with the W166. The luggage compartment holds 690 liters.
Specifications Mercedes W166
The second EmElka from Mercedes in the B166 body was equipped with permanent all-wheel drive, as well as a start / stop system already in the basic configuration. A car with a spring suspension can overcome a ford with a depth of 50mm, and a Mercedes with an Airmatic suspension with the ability to increase the ground clearance to 285mm can overcome a ford with a depth of 600mm. Versions with the on & offroad package, in addition to the air suspension, are equipped with additional body protection from below, as well as a cross-axle differential lock, let alone the assistance system when starting up the hill, as well as the assistance system when descending the hill. The optional Active Cruve System minimizes roll when cornering. option is only available in Mercedes with air suspension. Off-road, a button labeled offroad helps a lot, which allows the wheels to spin, and also engages higher gears at higher revs than usual.
As a gearbox for any of the versions, only one is available - the seven-speed automatic transmission 7-G Tronic Plus. On tests carried out by foreign journalists, the SUV withstood, without a skid, lateral acceleration with a force of 0.85g.
The base diesel engine - ML 250CDI produces 204 hp and 500 N.M of torque - this allows you to gain one hundred kilometers in 9 seconds, and the maximum speed, even with such the least powerful engine, is 210 km. A more powerful diesel engine - 350CDI develops 258 hp and 620 N.M, with such a diesel the SUV gains a hundred in 7.4 seconds, and on the highway it is able to develop 224 km. The gasoline ML350 with a capacity of 306 horses and a torque of 370 N. M gains the first hundred in 7.6 s, the maximum speed is 235 km. The top ML500 develops a power of 408 forces, which allows it to accelerate to a hundred in 5.6 s. ML 63AMG develops 525hp and 700N.M. ML63AMG accelerates to a hundred in 4.8s, the maximum speed is electronically limited to 250 kilometers.
Let's pay attention to the technical characteristics of the petrol Mercedes ML350 W166 with a conventional, spring suspension.
Technical part and characteristics:
Engine: V6 3.5 petrol
Volume: 3498cube
Power: 306hp
Torque: 370N.M
Number of valves: 32v
Performance indicators:
Acceleration 0 - 100km: 7.6s
Maximum speed: 235km
Average fuel consumption: 8.5L
Fuel tank capacity: 78L
Body:
Dimensions: 4804mm * 1926mm * 1788mm
Wheelbase: 2915mm
Curb weight: 2175kg
Ground clearance: 202mm (air suspension, up to 285mm)
Price for Mercedes W166
The Mercedes B166 SUV can be bought for an average of $ 100,000 - $ 120,000. The cost is mainly determined by the engine installed under its hood. The most "affordable" diesel 250CDI is priced at $ 70,000, while 63AMG costs $ 250,000. The petrol ML 350 costs $ 74,000.
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