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

Thinking of buying a used ML

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Old May 29, 2009 | 12:53 AM
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Thinking of buying a used ML

I have not picked a vehicle yet. There seem to be lots on Craigslist, Cars.com, etc.

I dont want to exceed 10K but would prefer less. Any suggestions as to what I should do? Any warnings? Any recommendations re extended warranty?
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Old May 29, 2009 | 10:06 AM
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Most pre-2002 Models have problems depending on how it was maintained and treated.I t would be best to buy an 02+ Models, thats where most of the problems have been fixed.
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Old May 30, 2009 | 02:10 PM
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Originally Posted by Benzlova
Most pre-2002 Models have problems depending on how it was maintained and treated.I t would be best to buy an 02+ Models, thats where most of the problems have been fixed.
TY. So 02 is OK?
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Old May 30, 2009 | 08:03 PM
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Up to that point, most problems have been fixed. I own a 2002 ML with 62,000 miles and its still running strong with no major problems. It will last a long time as long as you do regular maintenance. It's always good to have the inspected, some people beat their cars before selling so you may want to watch out for that (or bad accidents).
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Old May 31, 2009 | 01:29 AM
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Originally Posted by Benzlova
Up to that point, most problems have been fixed. I own a 2002 ML with 62,000 miles and its still running strong with no major problems. It will last a long time as long as you do regular maintenance. It's always good to have the inspected, some people beat their cars before selling so you may want to watch out for that (or bad accidents).
Thanks, Benzlova. I looked at a 02 today. The previous owner has maintained it well although it did have an accident -- he says it was minor. Does 10K sound OK for 66K miles? It is a 320 -- very basic. non leather seating surfaces, no electric seat or steering adjustment.

But I have a more important issue. He claims he has a 8 year power train warranty. Did these cars have those? Do you know if it is transferable?
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Old May 31, 2009 | 11:18 AM
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From: In A Van Down By The River
2014 RX 350 F Sport, 2007 Scion tC, 2000 ML 430 Money Pit Finally Gone! Oh Happy Day!
Save yourself a lot of time and $$$$$, don't buy one.
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Old May 31, 2009 | 09:17 PM
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Originally Posted by Pbglas
Thanks, Benzlova. I looked at a 02 today. The previous owner has maintained it well although it did have an accident -- he says it was minor. Does 10K sound OK for 66K miles? It is a 320 -- very basic. non leather seating surfaces, no electric seat or steering adjustment.

But I have a more important issue. He claims he has a 8 year power train warranty. Did these cars have those? Do you know if it is transferable?
You may need to ask him personally about the warranty, a regular warranty of course is transferable but im not sure on the policies for the extended warranty. 10K sounds fair only if you had leather and the base features such as electric/power seats, at least that what I have and I purchase mine very basic. If you feel that extra stuff is not a necessity then I guess it would be okay but I figured you could get more features in that car were considered basic for that price. I have yet to see a single ML with cloth interior, at least 02+, hope that helps. Good luck with your decision!


Btw, maintenance is costly for the ML even if you have a problem free car. There are many DIY's but maintaining the car in general is expensive. If something does go wrong depending on how serious, a lot of stuff are expensive to replace on an ML.
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Old Jun 7, 2009 | 08:03 AM
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Go with a V8. I thought the V6's were kind of weak.
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