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.
AAM Module Inspection (DTB; MB-NET 079)
Reference number: DTB; MB-NET 079
AAM MODULE INSPECTION
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
| MERCEDES-BENZ: | MODEL 163, MODEL YEAR 2001 |
| GROUP: | 54 - Electrical System |
SUBJECT
GROUP 54 - MODEL 163, MODEL YEAR 2001, AAM MODULE INSPECTION
SERVICE INFORMATION
All M Class vehicles in the chassis number range A250006 through A253538 must be inspected and, if necessary, have the AAM Module (N10) replaced. In affected vehicles, the AAM Module may exhibit irregular operation.
Inspect the AAM module production date using Star Diagnosis, following the path "Control Modules / Body / AAM / Control Unit Version". The AAM Module date code is listed near the bottom of the screen in the following format:
- Production Day:
- Production Month:
- Production Year:
An AAM Module having a production date code from 8 January 2001 through 29 January 2001 is faulty and MUST BE REPLACED. Vehicles with a faulty AAM Module must not be retailed until the AAM Module (163 545 53 32) is replaced.
If, upon inspection, the vehicle is equipped with an AAM Module outside of the production date range specified above, it can be released immediately.
For each vehicle inspected, please submit a warranty claim to permit tracking. Repair instructions, as well as warranty claims information (damage code, operation code, and time allowance) will be communicated shortly.
CLIENT VEHICLES
As first priority, MBUSA will contact each client with an affected vehicle and open a Client Assistance (CA) Referral. This will initiate the automatic shipment of a part for this specific client vehicle to your center. The CA Referral will request that you contact the client for an expeditious inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the affected module.
DEALER INVENTORY
Vehicles in stock can be inspected immediately based upon the above criteria. Details of parts shipments for affected vehicles will be communicated once parts for all client vehicles are distributed.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
