According to EPC, the correct fan for my 2002 ML500 is a 163-500-03-93. The ML55 AMG fan for the same year is a 163-500-02-93. I see a number of the AMG fans listed on Ebay. Some of them list both the 03-93 and the 02-93 part numbers, but they all just show ML55's in the application guide. Has anyone use one of these cheap Ebay fans on an ML500? The dealer part is $1250, so that is not an option.

 

163-500-03-93 As I understand it, the 3rd group (03) is the 'update or mod sequence number', so the -02- should work. I treat it that way all the time.
That said: This is my experience and my opinion. Proceed at your own risk.

163: Model ID
500: Parts Group common across all MB's. 32 is suspension. 72 is doors. 82 is "Electrical System Body". See my example below. This conforms to WIS if you have it.
03: Is the modification or issue number, almost always increasing. When I buy used, I search for the highest (latest) as it will be best. If there is a left side/right side, then an odd number in second place is left side.
93: The part assembly or component itself within that Parts Group.

For example, for my 2000 CLK it came without autodrop windows. 208-820-13-26 door module factory installed. Very hard to close the doors due to air pressure because the HVAC function to open to vent t0 outside air when door was open did not work. In 05/2001 a new door module with autodrop was introduced. 208-820-33-26. I bought a used -33 (left side, for example), installed it and presto - auto drop. No more broken door handles.

My 2004 CLK320 had a 'hard-shift from 2nd to 3rd, and a drone sound'. Replaced the factory installed ETC with the updated ETC module and all fixed. Shifts like butter now. It was a hardware/software problem.
(I bought it cheap because the PO thought it needed a new transmission, or so was told by MB, altho dealership had the MB issued SB to refer to. They wanted to install a new transmission.)

Also the folks at classicparts in Long Beach are a great resource. Call or email with your question. They are there for one reason: to support the classics - which your 'MY02 qualifies. Here is your -03- fan. Usually there are fitments listed as well - but not for this one. Ask them for help. I do frequently.
https://classicparts.mbusa.com/oem-p...bly-1635000393


-n3 is for left side, as also shown by "L" -3n is the parts modification sequence

Let me know if this helps you!