I am looking at getting an 2000 ML430 and I was wondering, those with ML's, what are some of your likes and dislikes and also what are some of the problems areas that have come up. Thanks
Tim

 

The problems I had were all fixed by the dealership I go to, I love MB service.
1) Leaky windshield (caused by the dealer)
2) Fuel gauge would not reach full
3) Rattle toward the rear or the car
4) Burnt out headlight(I can't believe that was under warranty!)
5) Seatbelt recall (found nothing wrong)
6) Squeaky brakes (fixed by installing updated pads and rotors)

 

I love my 2000 ML 430, but I do have the squeeky brake problem. My dealer has replaced my brakes twice to correct the squeeking, and they are now sqeeking again. I was told that MB is aware of the problem and the engineers are working on a fix. I am confident they will eventually get it resolved. I have had several tail and headlight bulb replacements all at no cost to me.

 

Hi AlBoston,

Did MB tell you what caused the rattle?

CL

 

well what do u know, the day i saw my car is problem free my shocks start squeaking and the panel started to rattle again! Arrgghh! Thats the end of my gloating . And the thing that was rattling was the rear seat mechanism I believe. They tightened it down and it stopped.

 

I would not buy another new ML or advise anyone to buy one 2nd hand unless it has an extended warranty. My ML430 MY2002 with only 27,000 miles on the clock has had well over a dozen none service related warranty problems - all but one of them electrically related. This has resulted in considerable inconvenience - further the dealer concerned has changed parts which were clearly not defective - I suspect to enhance their profit margins.
If you'd like details - let me know and I'll send you a copy of my problems to date.

Tim

 

The one I am getting is a starmark ML, from the dealer that my family had perchased over 7 Mb's from. they have always treated us right and will continue to do so. I got to looking at it and for around 90-100 more a month a can get a used 2002 ML500 with 4k on the odometer. I think I will probably get that one.

 

Hi Timmy,
Good luck with your proposed purchase - hope you get a good one (Star Marked or not).
I'm not saying all ML's are troublesome, just that it appears that a larger than normal percentage of owners has suffered unacceptable levels of problems.
My wife loves the ML, its her daily driver - it's a great car / truck to drive, but even she gets ticked off with the number of warranty visits....
Regards

Tim