M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

The list of stuff to watch out for on a 163

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Old 10-25-2006, 07:53 AM
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Originally Posted by sellsvans
It was suggested that maybe the Catalytic Conv. might be blocked.
Has anyone heard of this problem??
Hi,
I had the same power loss (engine protection mode) 4 years ago.
The combinations of fault codes resulted in catalyzers and mufflers
clogged... I changed with racing version (ferritic) custom made,
now the sound is similar to an US V8 Pickup....
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Old 11-08-2006, 03:46 PM
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Mass Air Flow

Is it pretty common to change the Mass Airflow immediately after having new spark plugs?

The reason why I am asking is because I had new spark plugs added to my 2001 ML 320 reached $100K, and the check engine light came on after 50 miles of driving. I took it to the dealer and there is an issue with the timing of the mass airflow, as it is used to operating on the old spark plugs...

I was just curious to see if this is a common problem? It seems like the Mass Airflow would adjust to the new plugs.

Jety
Old 11-11-2006, 10:04 AM
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163

You did a great job sharing thanks isn't even close to the word for your help. so THANKSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!
Old 11-24-2006, 08:45 PM
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ML320, Looking for my S4
Ironicly i've replaced, due to it ****ing up. 95% of what you said in that list. I still have the papers to back it up
Old 11-29-2006, 09:04 PM
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ml320
Sameo Sameo

i too had those problems.
and the horns..(replaced with honda nighthawk horns).

replaced squeeky rear shocks too. I was hoping I would enjoy a better 2nd hundred thousand miles but its been rough running for the last few hundred miles.

Good reading, reminded me I need to replace the antifreeze.
Old 01-20-2007, 05:05 AM
  #31  
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02' brabus modified ML500,05' Lambor Gallardo, 02' CLK
remember to change your Air Filter, otherwise if you bring to the dealer they may think the stinky smell in your car caused by Air Evop
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Old 01-31-2007, 07:34 PM
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1998 ML320
1998 ML 320 Recalls

i heard some where that the catalytic converters were under recall for the 1998 ML 320. Is this true?

I had these replaced in 2004 and it was not cheap. If you already paid for something under recall a while ago is there anything I can do about it?

What other recalls are there and is there a time frame?

I know of the power steering hose and clamp, as well as the seat belt thing? ( can someone elaborate) My center lap seat belt is loose and the buckle is broken.

Are there time limits on these two recalls?
Old 05-16-2007, 12:35 AM
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currently drive the 83 300SD
Originally Posted by GizmoLibero
Hi,
I had the same power loss (engine protection mode) 4 years ago.
The combinations of fault codes resulted in catalyzers and mufflers
clogged... I changed with racing version (ferritic) custom made,
now the sound is similar to an US V8 Pickup....
Where did you find this custom exhaust? Are a lot available? How pricey does it get?
Old 07-14-2007, 11:49 AM
  #34  
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Lancia Delta Hf integrale Evo 2, Vauxhall Astra Shopping car, MGF roadster
Dont know if anybody else has experienced this problem but during the winter months my dashboard lights all disappeared. Mercedes were not able to rectify this fault, it only happened when the lights were turned on and everything went out including the mileometer.
I left it and eventually if fixed itself!


Also I have noticed today that one of the headlamp washers are leaking and a driving lamp is full of condensation and the TV in the comand unit does not work properly and all I get is wavey lines...
Old 07-14-2007, 11:59 AM
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ml320
plugs & cats

To answer 2 questions in this post ...since my last post...

1) I had the Cats replaced for free in my 1999 ML320 just a few months ago.
Does it apply to the 98 ? Not sure but call them! !

2) I think the Mass Air Flow sensor does foul plugs. Faulty sensors makes the engine often go in the limp mode and that seems to fould plugs. I went thru 4 sets in 2,000 miles. Each time I replaced them it ran better for a while.
Since replacing the MASS and a vacuum line my stock plugs are working okay.
( 5,000 miles + - )
Old 08-21-2007, 03:42 AM
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2002 ML500
I have had most of those problems listed and some are still not fixed. Overall I have not been happy with this truck. It is an '02 ML500 with 140,000 miles does anyone know if it would still be under warranty to get some of them fixed
Old 08-29-2007, 08:16 AM
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l sl 7.3 koenig l cl 7.3 koenig l Ml 350
maf sensor
Old 08-29-2007, 08:17 AM
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l sl 7.3 koenig l cl 7.3 koenig l Ml 350
fuel pump
Old 08-29-2007, 08:18 AM
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l sl 7.3 koenig l cl 7.3 koenig l Ml 350
and with the esp it keeps turning off for no reason
Old 10-02-2007, 05:13 PM
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2000 ML55 AMG Black on Black
Loose Tail Lights

When I bought my 2000 ML, both rear tailights seemed loose despite looking like they were installed properly. There are these $4 (dealer) plastic knurled receiver bits behind the lights that guide them into position. These pieces crack very easily causing the play in the tail light housing.
Old 12-24-2007, 10:43 PM
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Originally Posted by webgrammer
This is what you get when you buy a Chrysler. Everything except the driveline in the ML's are American made. Take an interior apart sometime, you will be amazed by the amount of Chrysler emblems stamped on various parts. However, Benz is not off the hook either. Trans conductor plates??? Why can't they seal properly????
Can you elaborate on this conductor problem? I think I may have this issue!
Old 03-08-2009, 03:43 PM
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98 & 00 ML320
Thanks-Great post

I can tell that my mechanic is on the right track in getting my daughters ML320 back on the road!

PC
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Old 07-30-2009, 04:01 PM
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2003 ML500 Inspiration Edition
Don't forget the Navigation unit!

It's temperamental just when you REALLY need it to work. You get errors for no reason and then it starts working again without doing anything to fix it!!
Old 08-19-2009, 12:14 AM
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ml320
2001 ml320

i need help to fine out what's going on with my truck, someone please!!!!!!
Old 08-20-2009, 02:52 PM
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CLS350 ///AMG
hello to all....what should i look for ml400cdi.... 120.000km.....??
Old 08-20-2009, 02:55 PM
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CLS350 ///AMG
Originally Posted by neshmn
hello to all....what should i look for ml400cdi.... 120.000km.....??
its 2001year.....
Old 12-08-2009, 03:02 PM
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2004 ml350
i have a 04 ml350 and the radio cd player and amplifier are all link by a fiberoptic cable one will not work without the other so get a radio that dont have that cable and you will be good
Old 12-13-2009, 07:09 AM
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'11 C300
Originally Posted by saturnstyl
Back by popular demand, here it is:


D-pillar covers crack
Bubbling center console armrest.
Seat side trim cracks, falls off - updated parts are stronger.
Wind noise- test drive before you buy. Usually no fixing that.
Vehicle stalls when hot - crank position sensor failure. Replace.
Vehicle will start then immediately stall- replace keys or das module.

Hope this is enough to keep you on top of things for a while. I probably forgot something along the way...... Enjoy your new vehicle!
I have had or still have the problems noted above from your original post. Add to the D-pillar that in addition to cracking the coating peels and it will fly off at the most inconvenient time; e.g., 70 mph on a freeway. Expensive to replace if out of warranty.
Old 12-13-2009, 10:53 AM
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1999 ML320; 1995 E420
Nice list...thanks for the hard work putting it together.

My wife's ML320 has 193,000 miles and going great. Outside of the sunroof (discarded the parts, not needed), window switch replacement, two door lock actuators and a new expansion tank last week, the ML has been fantastic!

Just spent 3 hours at Old World Automotive getting consultation (yep, he is not just a first-class mechanic!) on a couple of niggling issues:

-small oil leak in front on drivers side - should be easy fix;
-tie rod replacements/bushings on rear wheels.

First plug replacement will be next week. Great mileage/great truck!
Old 01-11-2010, 03:43 PM
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SOLD both: 1987 560SL 2003 ML320
Wow. I'm really glad to find this. I was considering three ML's: an '01 ML55 [101K], and '01 ML320 [110K]and an '03 ML320 [125K] and now I may just abandon the whole idea. I was really hoping to get an older ML for winter use, but dang...that is one hell of a laundry list!!

I hope that the number of good vehicles outnumbers the bad actors...most people report problems, not trouble free driving.

if I decide to proceed, at least now I have a whole new list of questions to ask!!!

Thanks to all!


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