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

Please Help w/ ball joints and tie rods

Old Jan 19, 2004 | 09:09 PM
  #1  
nicker's Avatar
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From: South Carolina
1998 ML 320
Please Help w/ ball joints and tie rods

I was changing the brakes on my ML when I noticed I have a bad outer tie rod end on the drivers side and a bad upper ball joint on the passengers side. The tie rod end looks easy enough, separate the joint, then unscrew it from the tie rod but I’m not sure about the ball joint. I called the Mercedes dealer and they say that I cannot buy just the upper joint, they only sell it installed in the whole upper control arm.

I am seeking advise from anyone who has changed either or can give me some tips or pointers on this undertaking.

Thank you in advance,
Nick
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Old Jan 20, 2004 | 10:41 AM
  #2  
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Both the tie rod end and the upper control arm are easy to change. no special tools required. just be sure to align the vehicle after replacement.
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Old Jan 20, 2004 | 08:31 PM
  #3  
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From: South Carolina
1998 ML 320
Thanks for the input
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Old Jan 21, 2004 | 11:09 AM
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From: Boston
'05 A4 1.8TQM6
Hey ML GOD,
my dealer told me that the front ball joints were starting to wear out at 50k miles...is this normal on the ML???

-G-
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Old Jan 21, 2004 | 11:15 AM
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You might want to check with the dealer if they are covered under warranty, they replaced the bushings under warranty in my car, I'd assume ball joints and rods are under warranty as well, unless youare past the warranty period.
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Old Jan 21, 2004 | 11:20 AM
  #6  
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From: Boston
'05 A4 1.8TQM6
Originally posted by pocholin
You might want to check with the dealer if they are covered under warranty, they replaced the bushings under warranty in my car, I'd assume ball joints and rods are under warranty as well, unless youare past the warranty period.
Nope, passed the warranty level by a few thousand miles. I wrote 50k, but it was like 52k. sorry.

but still, worn out that quickly? Everything on the ML seems to wear out quickly, especially BRAKES. aside from those, the thing is awsome

-G-
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Old Jan 21, 2004 | 01:46 PM
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Originally posted by GDawgC220
Hey ML GOD,
my dealer told me that the front ball joints were starting to wear out at 50k miles...is this normal on the ML???

-G-
I havent seen ball joints on these vehicles wear out. unless the boot is torn. not to say yours are not worn out...but not very common
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