Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp — Stage 1 file (+70 hp)

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Chip tuning for Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp ECU

Mercedes ML (2005 - W164) 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp — premium diesel engine of the passenger segment of the Mercedes-Benz Group AG (Mercedes-Benz, AMG, Maybach, Smart, EQ) group (Германия, 1926). Stage 1 chip tuning raises power from 190 to 260 hp (+70 hp, +37%) and torque from 440 to 600 Nm (+160 Nm). This engine ships with different ECU variants: Bosch EDC16C2, Bosch EDC16CP31. The flashing method is determined by the specific unit: OBD, Bench or Boot mode. In the CHIPOK database: 2 configurations · 2 ECU variants. The 2005 generation — first-generation CDI/TDI/HDi diesels with relatively simple ECU protection; OBD reading works directly.

Mercedes-Benz is the world's oldest carmaker, founded in 1926 by the merger of Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft and Benz & Cie. The Mercedes slogan is 'Das Beste oder nichts' ('The best or nothing'). Smart is Mercedes's city sub-brand, historically running Mitsubishi and Renault engines. Mercedes pioneered CDI (Common-rail Direct Injection) technology on passenger-car diesels, in series production since 1997. Mercedes diesels have long been popular with the German police and taxi services. Mercedes diesel engines are fitted to passenger cars and commercial vehicles.

The Mercedes community in Europe has a large pool of available Stage files for the standard models. Stage 1 on Mercedes often requires refreshing the adaptations after the flash. Stage 1 on mid-range Mercedes diesels delivers a noticeable torque gain. Mid-range Mercedes engines are a premium segment with a conservative factory calibration, and Stage 1 preserves engine life. Mercedes prioritises smooth running, and Stage 1 preserves the engine's character. The Mercedes factory calibration allows a confident move to Stage 1 without hardware changes. The Mercedes community is active in Europe, with a large pool of available Stage files.

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does Stage 1 add for the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp?

After Stage 1 the power of the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp rises from 190 to 260 hp, a gain of 70 hp (+37%). Torque rises from 440 to 600 Nm (+160 Nm).

How does Stage 1 differ from stock on the Mercedes ML?

Stage 1 is a software optimization of the factory ECU firmware of the Mercedes ML with no hardware changes. The injection, boost, ignition-timing and torque maps are reprogrammed. The gain is +70 hp with no hardware changes.

What is the risk of Stage 1 on the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp?

A remap of the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp is safe — the factory calibration in this mid-range class is conservative, leaving genuine headroom for Stage 1 with no hardware changes.

What is Stage 2 for the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp?

Stage 2 on the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp means software + hardware (exhaust, intake, intercooler). The gain depends on the specific hardware combination.

Which control units is the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp built with?

The Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp comes with 2 ECU variants: Bosch EDC16C2, Bosch EDC16CP31. Calibration is done for the specific unit after the revision is identified.

Does the factory warranty of the Mercedes ML remain valid after Stage 1?

After remapping the Mercedes ML, the official factory warranty on the engine and gearbox is lost (this applies to any manufacturer when the ECU is modified). CHIPOK guarantees the quality of the calibration and free revisions.

How long is the wait for a Stage 1 remap for the Mercedes ML?

Reading and writing via OBD takes 25-30 minutes on the Mercedes ML. Bench reading (BDM/JTAG) takes about 60 minutes plus refitting. Remote file processing at CHIPOK takes 5-30 minutes.

How do you roll back to the factory firmware of the Mercedes ML?

Before Stage 1 the original of the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp is read out and saved — returning to the factory state is possible at any time.

How much does chip tuning the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp cost?

The remap price for the Mercedes ML 280 CDI (3.0) 190 hp is dynamic and is calculated in the CHIPOK calculator based on the selected options. A credit-based payment model, with no subscription fees.

Last updated: 31.08.2026 · Source: manufacturer technical documentation · Measurements: CHIPOK dyno