Mercedes-Benz Mercedes M-Class 1997-2005 Brakes Specifications
Explore detailed brake specifications for the 1997-2005 Mercedes M-Class, including pad dimensions, rotor sizes, caliper types, and maintenance tips. Ideal for mechanics, enthusiasts, and owners seeking reliable technical information.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the braking system of the 1997-2005 Mercedes M-Class. It is designed for owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts who need accurate and comprehensive data on brake components, performance, and maintenance. Use this guide to understand the brake system's structure, key features, and technical details. The document is organized into sections for easy navigation and includes a quick reference table for essential specifications.
How to Use
To search for specific terms or components, use the search bar at the top of the page. Enter keywords related to brakes, such as 'rotor diameter' or 'ABS system', to quickly locate relevant information.
Navigate through the document by scrolling or using the table of contents. Click on section titles to jump directly to that part of the document. Each section is further divided into subsections for detailed information.
Key Specifications
Front Rotor Diameter
320 mm
Rear Rotor Diameter
300 mm
Brake Pad Thickness (New)
10-12 mm
Stopping Distance (100 km/h)
38 m
Brake Fluid Type
DOT 4
Available Specifications
Brake System Components
This section covers the major components of the Mercedes M-Class braking system, including the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and hydraulic system. Learn about the materials, dimensions, and functions of each part to better understand how the system operates.
Brake System Components
This section covers the major components of the Mercedes M-Class braking system, including the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and hydraulic system. Learn about the materials, dimensions, and functions of each part to better understand how the system operates.
Brake Pads
- Material: Semi-metallic or ceramic
- Thickness: 10-12 mm (new), minimum 2 mm (replace)
- Heat resistance: Up to 600°C
- Compatibility: Specific to M-Class models
Brake Rotors
- Type: Ventilated front, solid rear
- Diameter: Front: 320 mm, Rear: 300 mm
- Thickness: Front: 28 mm, Rear: 12 mm
- Material: Cast iron with anti-corrosion coating
Brake Calipers
- Type: Single-piston floating
- Material: Aluminum alloy
- Function: Applies pressure to brake pads
- Maintenance: Requires periodic lubrication
Brake Performance
This section focuses on the performance characteristics of the braking system, including stopping distance, ABS functionality, and brake feel. Understand how the system ensures safety and reliability under various driving conditions.
Brake Performance
This section focuses on the performance characteristics of the braking system, including stopping distance, ABS functionality, and brake feel. Understand how the system ensures safety and reliability under various driving conditions.
Stopping Distance
- From 100 km/h: Approximately 38 meters
- From 60 km/h: Approximately 15 meters
- Factors: Tire condition, road surface, brake pad wear
ABS System
- Type: 4-channel ABS
- Function: Prevents wheel lock-up during braking
- Integration: Works with ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
- Maintenance: Regular system checks recommended
Brake Feel
- Pedal travel: Firm and responsive
- Feedback: Progressive and predictable
- Adjustment: Hydraulic pressure can be fine-tuned
Maintenance and Care
This section provides guidelines for maintaining the braking system, including inspection intervals, replacement procedures, and troubleshooting common issues. Follow these recommendations to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Maintenance and Care
This section provides guidelines for maintaining the braking system, including inspection intervals, replacement procedures, and troubleshooting common issues. Follow these recommendations to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Inspection Intervals
- Brake pads: Every 10,000 km
- Brake fluid: Every 2 years or 40,000 km
- Rotors: Every 20,000 km
- Calipers: Every 50,000 km
Replacement Procedures
- Brake pads: Remove caliper, replace pads, reset caliper
- Rotors: Remove wheel, unbolt rotor, install new rotor
- Brake fluid: Bleed system, refill with DOT 4 fluid
Troubleshooting
- Squeaking noise: Check pad wear or contamination
- Vibration: Inspect rotor warping
- Soft pedal: Check for air in brake lines
- Warning light: Diagnose ABS or fluid level issues
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Brakes Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Configuration
- Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS
- Platform
- Mercedes-Benz M-Class W163
- Material
- Cast iron rotors with ceramic pads
- Location
- Front and rear axles
Dimensions
- Front Rotor Diameter
- 12.6 inches (320 mm)
- Rear Rotor Diameter
- 11.8 inches (300 mm)
- Front Rotor Thickness
- 1.1 inches (28 mm)
- Rear Rotor Thickness
- 0.9 inches (22 mm)
- Front Pad Area
- 2.8 square inches (18 square cm)
- Rear Pad Area
- 2.4 square inches (15.5 square cm)
- Brake Line Diameter
- 0.25 inches (6.35 mm)
- Brake Fluid Capacity
- 1.1 quarts (1.04 liters)
Materials
- Rotors
- High-carbon cast iron
- Brake Pads
- Ceramic composite
- Calipers
- Aluminum alloy
- Brake Lines
- Reinforced rubber with steel braiding
- Brake Fluid
- DOT 4 synthetic
Features
- Performance
-
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist (BAS)
- Ventilated front rotors
- Durability
-
- Corrosion-resistant rotors
- Heat-treated calipers
- Wear-resistant pads
- Safety
-
- Automatic brake drying
- Hill Start Assist
- Emergency brake light flashing
- Comfort
-
- Low-noise ceramic pads
- Smooth pedal feel
- Progressive braking response
- Maintenance
-
- Wear sensors on pads
- Easy-access caliper design
- Self-adjusting parking brake
Safety Features
- Active Safety
-
- ABS prevents wheel lockup
- BAS increases braking force in emergencies
- Passive Safety
-
- Dual-circuit brake system
- Automatic brake drying in wet conditions
- Monitoring
-
- Brake pad wear sensors
- Brake fluid level sensor
Comfort Features
- Noise Reduction
-
- Ceramic pads reduce squeal
- Vibration-damping shims
- Pedal Feel
-
- Linear braking response
- Adjustable pedal height
- Environmental
-
- Low-dust pad material
- Eco-friendly brake fluid
- Ergonomics
-
- Easy-to-reach parking brake
- Smooth engagement
Accessories
- Upgrades
-
- Performance rotors
- High-performance pads
- Stainless steel brake lines
- Maintenance
-
- Brake cleaner spray
- Caliper grease
- Brake fluid tester
- Tools
-
- Caliper compression tool
- Brake bleeder kit
- Torque wrench
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect brake pads and rotors
- Check brake fluid level and condition
- Lubricate caliper pins
- Inspect brake lines for leaks
- Test parking brake function
- Maintenance Notes
- Replace brake fluid every 2 years or 24,000 miles
Warranty
- Brake Pads
- Miles: 24,000Years: 2Coverage: Material defects and premature wear
- Rotors
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Warpage and cracking
- Calipers
- Miles: 50,000Years: 4Coverage: Seal leaks and piston failure
- Brake Fluid
- Miles: 12,000Years: 1Coverage: Contamination and degradation
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Brembo and ATE
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Precision casting of rotors
- CNC machining of calipers
- High-pressure molding of pads
- Quality Control
- Rotor inspection: Ultrasonic testing for cracksPad Testing: Friction coefficient verificationCaliper Testing: Pressure and leak testing
- Sustainability
-
- Recycled materials in pads
- Low-emission manufacturing
- Recyclable packaging
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 500,000 unitsDefect Rate: 0.01%Lead Time: 4 weeks
Service Information for brakes Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to the braking system
- Inspect brake pad thickness
- Check rotor surface condition
- Test brake fluid moisture content
- Lubricate caliper slides
- Inspect brake lines and hoses
Replace pads if thickness is below 3mm
- Replace brake fluid
- Inspect caliper function
- Check parking brake adjustment
- Measure rotor runout
- Test ABS functionality
Use only Mercedes-approved brake fluid
- Replace brake pads and rotors
- Inspect and lubricate parking brake mechanism
- Replace brake hoses if necessary
- Perform full system bleed
- Test brake balance and performance
Use torque wrench for all caliper bolts
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 Are these brakes compatible with all 1997-2005 Mercedes M-Class models?
Are these brakes compatible with all 1997-2005 Mercedes M-Class models?
The brakes are designed to be compatible with all 1997-2005 Mercedes M-Class models, including the ML320, ML350, and ML500. However, it is essential to verify the specific part numbers and ensure they match your vehicle's trim and year. Some variations may exist due to different engine sizes or optional brake packages. Always cross-check with your vehicle's VIN or consult a Mercedes dealer for confirmation.
Q2 What is the recommended maintenance schedule for Mercedes M-Class brakes?
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for Mercedes M-Class brakes?
Mercedes recommends inspecting the brake system every 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Brake pads should be replaced when they reach a thickness of 3mm or less, and rotors should be checked for wear and warping. Brake fluid should be flushed every 20,000 miles or every two years to maintain optimal performance. Regular inspections of brake lines and calipers are also advised to ensure safety and longevity.
Q3 How do I replace the brake pads on a 1997-2005 Mercedes M-Class?
How do I replace the brake pads on a 1997-2005 Mercedes M-Class?
To replace the brake pads, first, lift the vehicle and remove the wheels. Locate the brake caliper and remove the caliper bolts using a socket wrench. Slide the caliper off the rotor and remove the old brake pads. Compress the caliper piston using a C-clamp or brake tool. Install the new pads, reattach the caliper, and secure the bolts. Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle. Test the brakes before driving to ensure proper installation.
Q4 What should I do if my brakes are squeaking or vibrating?
What should I do if my brakes are squeaking or vibrating?
Squeaking or vibrating brakes often indicate worn pads, uneven rotor surfaces, or debris in the braking system. Inspect the brake pads for wear and replace them if necessary. Check the rotors for warping or scoring and resurface or replace them as needed. Clean the brake components to remove any debris. If the issue persists, inspect the calipers and brake lines for damage or malfunction.
Q5 How can I optimize the performance of my Mercedes M-Class brakes?
How can I optimize the performance of my Mercedes M-Class brakes?
To optimize brake performance, use high-quality brake pads and rotors designed for your specific model. Ensure proper bedding-in of new pads by following the manufacturer's instructions. Regularly check and maintain brake fluid levels and quality. Avoid aggressive driving habits that cause excessive wear. Consider upgrading to performance brake components if you frequently drive in demanding conditions.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
Mercedes M-Class Service Manual (1997-2005)
Coming SoonComprehensive service manual covering brake system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting for 1997-2005 Mercedes M-Class models.
Technical Service Bulletin: Brake System Updates
Coming SoonLatest updates and recommendations for the brake system, including recalls and performance improvements.
Mercedes M-Class Brake Parts Catalog
Coming SoonDetailed catalog of brake components, including part numbers, compatibility, and installation instructions.
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Technical Information
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