Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2000 Mercedes Benz ML430FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Transfer case control system, function - GF28.19-P-3000A
MODEL 163
Function sequence:
Road ratio (High) =>cross-country ratio (Low)
- Stop the vehicle
- Selector lever in position "N"
- Engine idling
- Operate "Low Range" switch (S97/6)
- The "Low Range" indicator lamp (A1e53) in the instrument panel flashes 3 times in two seconds during the shift process.
- The transfer case control module (N78) actuates the electric actuator motor (A55). This rotates and initiates the change in ratio via a mechanical connection in the transfer case.
- After the shift process is complete, the "Low Range" indicator lamp (A1e53) remains illuminated.
Off-road ratio (Low) =>road ratio (High)
- Stop the vehicle
- Selector lever in position "N"
- Engine idling
- Operate "Low Range" switch (S97/6)
- The "Low Range" indicator lamp (A1e53 ) in the instrument panel flashes 3 times in two seconds during the shift process.
- The transfer case control module (N78) actuates the electric actuator motor (A55). This rotates and initiates the change in ratio via a mechanical connection in the transfer case.
- After the shift process is complete, the "Low Range" indicator lamp (A1e53) goes out.
| Transfer case (VG) "Low/High" shift requirement | Model 163 | GF28.10-P-0002-01A | |
| Location/task/design/function of transfer case control module | Model 163 | GF28.19-P-3100A | |
| Location of transfer case control module | Model 163 | GF28.19-P-3100-01A | |
| Location/task/design/function of transfer case "Low Range" indicator lamp | Model 163 | GF28.19-P-3300A | |
| Location/task/design/function of transfer case electric actuator motor | Model 163 | GF28.19-P-3400A | |
| Transfer case control module, location | Model 163 | GF28.19-P-1003-01A |
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.