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

Happy owners?

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Old 11-02-2004, 12:18 AM
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1986 560SEL, 97 BMW 740iL
Happy owners?

I know when the first ML came out, it was rated poor for quality control and lot of problems. However it has been around for quite some years now. I am now considering a ML500 for the future, what is your opinion on this model? Any input would be helpful and appreciate. Thanks.
Old 11-02-2004, 06:29 AM
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2011 GL540
Thumbs up

Rock solid for us... we're on our second one. We had a 2000 ML320 which worked flawlessly...

Traded that last Christmas for a used MB-exec 2003 ML500 -- had all the goodies and we love the V8. Again, no problems.

Martin in NH
-----------
2003 ML500 Orion Blue
2002 E55 AMG Brilliant Silver
Old 11-02-2004, 07:26 AM
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1999 ML430
1999 ML430 w/205.000 miles

Rock solid...great performance...great visibility....very comfortable...ABS/ESP/
BAS/18-20 MPG.....I give it four stars..........
Old 11-02-2004, 08:49 AM
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2010 ML550, 2010 E350 4M, 1966 Corvette Convt C2
My 02 ML500 is my second ML after the 98 I had. Both were purchased new. I have had no major problems and only a few annoyances with both vehicles. The 500 is far superior in ride, features and power over the 98.Both vehicles provide occupants with lots of comfort and a great feeling of safety and security. Key to enjoying your ML experience is a good dealer with good service. The guys I believe on these forums that trash their ML's are those that hate dealerships and those that do not want to spend a nickle to maintain their vehicles along with those that mod their ML's with aftermarket stuff and junk.
Buy it, I think you will grow to love it!!
Old 11-02-2004, 09:19 AM
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SL500 E320 ML350
Just traded an '03 ML 350 for the '05 ML 350 Special Edition (last of this body before it becomes a Lexus clone). I love the '05. As my Service manager said, "MB finally got it right!"
Old 11-02-2004, 12:19 PM
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School bus
Originally Posted by benzboy
Just traded an '03 ML 350 for the '05 ML 350 Special Edition (last of this body before it becomes a Lexus clone). I love the '05. As my Service manager said, "MB finally got it right!"
:v Time to drive it like you STOLE it!! :v
Old 11-02-2004, 12:54 PM
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2020 GLE 450; 2023 BMW M2 Coupe
ML satisfaction

I still have one of the first MLs (12/97 production). The first year there were lots of minor issues, but nothing major, and the dealer service was great. It fits our needs very well--lots of space but not a behemoth, handles pretty well (w/ 18s and Bilsteins), a measure of off-road and towing ability, very good snow performance, etc. Undoubtedly they've improved greatly since then.

I just pre-ordered a W164 due next spring. From what has been leaked so far, it looks like a step up in all regards.
Old 11-02-2004, 06:19 PM
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An ML500 should serve you quite well. I really enjoy mine! Few problems on this model, so visits to the dealer should only be for service and not repairs!
BTW ML500's are hell on brakes, don't say you weren't warned....
Old 11-02-2004, 06:51 PM
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2003 CLK55
I am an owner of a 1999 ML430. I am happy.
Therefore I am a happy ML owner.
What else do you want to know?
Old 11-15-2004, 01:22 AM
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'03 ML500 Sport
Thumbs up Very Happy!

I had a '98 430 with 34k, drowned it during a flood. Purchased an '03 500 loaded, with 29k I couldn't be happier!!! Yes, a few gripes like no mudflaps available for the Sport. Power and handling is impressive. And remember, tires and brakes go fast!!!
Old 11-29-2004, 03:00 PM
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Still have my '02 ML500, four more months left on the lease. Only two problems so far: 1. PSE module malfunction 2. Leaky windshield washing fluid reservoir. All replaced under warranty. Really eats brakes though. 32K miles and I'm on third set of front pads and getting ready for third set of rear.
Getting ready for an '05 ML500 before they run out.

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