2003 Mercedes ML-Class Owner's Manual - Page 286

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 recommended 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 operation. 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 conditioning system. Never use R-12 (CFC) or mineral-based lubricating 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 strenuous operating conditions, this moisture content can lead to the formation of bubbles in the system, thus reducing the system's efficiency. Therefore, the brake fluid must be replaced every two years, preferably in the spring. Only brake fluid approved by Mercedes-Benz is recommended. Your authorized Mercedes-Benz Center will provide you with additional information. Premium unleaded gasoline ! To maintain the engine's durability and performance, premium unleaded gasoline must be used. If premium unleaded is not available and low octane fuel is used, follow these precautions: Have the fuel tank only partially filled with unleaded regular and fill up with premium unleaded as soon as possible. Avoid full throttle driving and abrupt acceleration. Do not exceed an engine speed of 3000 rpm if the vehicle is loaded with a light load such as two persons and no luggage. Do not exceed 2/3 of maximum accelerator pedal position if the vehicle is fully loaded or operating in mountainous terrain. 286