MB driver considering first SUV, a ML350
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Newbie
Joined: Mar 2008
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2003 E320
MB driver considering first SUV, a ML350
I'm considering to get a new ML350. Should I? Opinion about reliability? Boards like this may have a skewed view because most posts are about problems.
I've ridden in an older ML series. It's ok to get in, not like the larger Range Rovers.
I've ridden in an older ML series. It's ok to get in, not like the larger Range Rovers.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 4,260
Likes: 6
From: Philadelphia area
2010 ML550, 2010 E350 4M, 1966 Corvette Convt C2
I now have my 3rd ML, had a 98 ML320, 02 ML500 and now my 06 ML500. All have been just fine, the 02 had more minor issues than the rest and my 06 has been flawless. I enjoy it very much and its my daily driver. Reliability is excellent, as is comfort, handling and performance. Could not say anything bad about it. I think you will really like it.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 429
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From: South Florida
2006 ML500
Ditto on my 06 ML500. One of the best vehicles I've ever owned. I don't realize how good it is until I ride in someone elses car or drive a loaner and then I can't wait to get back into the ML!!
Others that have driven my ML have complained about the brake feel and the accelerator sensitivity coming off idle. I'm used to it now and don't notice it but it does take a good driver to be smooth. May just be the way mine is?
Others that have driven my ML have complained about the brake feel and the accelerator sensitivity coming off idle. I'm used to it now and don't notice it but it does take a good driver to be smooth. May just be the way mine is?
Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 107
Likes: 13
From: Md, Fla.
2021 GLC 300 4Matic
This is my 4th ML. I've owned a '99 ML320, '02 ML350, '05 ML500, and my current '08 ML 320 CDI. The first three had some issues, but the '08 so far is perfect. Fit & finish on the new W164's is far superior to the W163's, as is comfort, performance, and handling. After having the Diesel, I'd never go back to Gas. The torque on the CDI is amazing.
I've also driven BMW's for many years, having had 2 X5's. I like the new ML better than my X5's .
I've also driven BMW's for many years, having had 2 X5's. I like the new ML better than my X5's .
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 71
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From: Omaha, Nebraska
'08 GL 320 CDI (scheduled delivery 3/20/08)
Ditto with Tarponbeach, I also owned several bmw's and glad to be rid of my latest a X5 4.4 which got 13-15 mpg at best. With diesel you also get more "bang" for the buck although it costs 50+ cents more per gallon vs premium. With that said, my new GL diesel gets 21+ in the city and 28+ on the hwy....and looking forward to 60,000 miles, the point when MB considers it just driven in.....
Member
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 160
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A160(Sold) C180(Sold), ML320(Dead! Sold) CDi, R300 CDi
i had my ML for 20 months. So far so good. Only had twice engine stopped when I was driving 80km/hr, last month sunroof open can't closed. Air con has smell, took to dealer fix it twice and smell still here.
Last week, gear box won't change gear, keep up to 60km/hr.
i think it is a great car.
Regards
Kevin
Last week, gear box won't change gear, keep up to 60km/hr.
i think it is a great car.
Regards
Kevin
Member
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 194
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Just my opinion (and my wife's) but I test drove an ML350 about 2 months ago and really didn't like the handling at all. It had a very "Non-MB" feel to it. Very twitchy steering. I could probably have gotten used to it. However, my wife hated it - and she was really looking forward to driving it. She said she felt totally unsafe and very unstable. We've had SUVs before - as well as MBs and BMWs.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 4,260
Likes: 6
From: Philadelphia area
2010 ML550, 2010 E350 4M, 1966 Corvette Convt C2
Twitchy steering means that the driver is not capable of steering the car correctly. I would not pay any attention whatsoever to the previous post. I have never seen anyone other than that guy and his wife who "felt unsafe" in any ML. I would question both of their driving abilities.
Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 107
Likes: 13
From: Md, Fla.
2021 GLC 300 4Matic
Twitchy steering means that the driver is not capable of steering the car correctly. I would not pay any attention whatsoever to the previous post. I have never seen anyone other than that guy and his wife who "felt unsafe" in any ML. I would question both of their driving abilities.
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From: Chicago
Suzuki Burgman Executive
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 68
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2007 ML320 CDI
Just my opinion (and my wife's) but I test drove an ML350 about 2 months ago and really didn't like the handling at all. It had a very "Non-MB" feel to it. Very twitchy steering. I could probably have gotten used to it. However, my wife hated it - and she was really looking forward to driving it. She said she felt totally unsafe and very unstable. We've had SUVs before - as well as MBs and BMWs.
I agree it is COMPLETELY the opposite of 'twitchy'. If it is anything it is a bit sluggish!
She may feel more comfortable in a floaty Ford Explorer!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2004
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From: California
2014 C250 sport
I think our new ML drives VERY nice! We've had it for 13,000 miles since June of 2007, and weve had ZERO problems so far. I was skeptical of the W164 when our previous 2003 ML was a rattle trap, but they really, really improved the W164. Its very quiet, very smooth, very solid and the V6 has plenty of power. The steering is anything but twitchy though, but no, it does not handle nor steer like a BMW. The suspension is very soft but it pays off with a pillowy ride. I highly recommend it!
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Twitchy steering means that the driver is not capable of steering the car correctly. I would not pay any attention whatsoever to the previous post. I have never seen anyone other than that guy and his wife who "felt unsafe" in any ML. I would question both of their driving abilities.
I've had M3's, and M5, M-Roadster, CLK, S4 and a bunch of other cars. I'm more than capable of driving, pardner.
We test drove one 2009 ML350 back in late Feb/Early March. "Twitchy" means that the steering did not track as "solid" or "predictable" as I'm accustomed to from a MB. The ML350 responded to extremely small steering inputs much faster than (for example) the X5.
My recommendation is to test drive one yourself. I only provided both my opinion and my wifes. I didn't need some jerk making insults. You may love it.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 4,260
Likes: 6
From: Philadelphia area
2010 ML550, 2010 E350 4M, 1966 Corvette Convt C2
And I would question both your integrity and your intelligence for making such an insulting statement.
I've had M3's, and M5, M-Roadster, CLK, S4 and a bunch of other cars. I'm more than capable of driving, pardner.
We test drove one 2009 ML350 back in late Feb/Early March. "Twitchy" means that the steering did not track as "solid" or "predictable" as I'm accustomed to from a MB. The ML350 responded to extremely small steering inputs much faster than (for example) the X5.
My recommendation is to test drive one yourself. I only provided both my opinion and my wifes. I didn't need some jerk making insults. You may love it.
I've had M3's, and M5, M-Roadster, CLK, S4 and a bunch of other cars. I'm more than capable of driving, pardner.
We test drove one 2009 ML350 back in late Feb/Early March. "Twitchy" means that the steering did not track as "solid" or "predictable" as I'm accustomed to from a MB. The ML350 responded to extremely small steering inputs much faster than (for example) the X5.
My recommendation is to test drive one yourself. I only provided both my opinion and my wifes. I didn't need some jerk making insults. You may love it.
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Joined: Mar 2005
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You are certainly entitled to question anything you like. My remarks were just what they appear to be, I question your driving abilities and your ability to know what you are experiencing. I have driven the ML lots more than you and I will tell you first hand that the steering is excellent, precise and very solid. The vehicle tracks very well and I have owned many high performance excellent handling vehicles, which include a Ferrari. My statements still stand but you go purchase your Explorer, 4 Runner or KIA if you wish.
Perhaps you would be better served to actually listen and respect that not everyone feels the same as you do.
BTW, if you ever want to test your driving skills come on down. Beaver Run is open here and it's only about 6-7 hours from you. I'll match you in terms of both vehicles - and lap times. You feel so confident, come on down. Otherwise keep your rude comments to yourself. It's easy to be a school-yard bully when you're hiding behind a screen name and a bunch of miles.
I'm done with you.
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Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 45
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From: South Africa/Swaziland
06 COROLLA 140I
I know the first couple batches of the ML Had suspension and Transmission issues, and took a few recalls as well, mayb u just Testdrove 1 of those..I would recommend you try 1 from another dealership 2 compare...Have u considered the GL, Much more Reliable and way more bullet proof from what i have heard and seen.....The new X5 Also looks a verry goodbuy....
Good luck on your purchase....
Farouk
Good luck on your purchase....
Farouk
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2008
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2003 E320
NEW QUESTION
On the build your own MB in the US website, there are two optional steps (running boards) that are available. One is a factory or dealer install bar with a step on it and another is a factory installed flat running board.
Are these needed? How about for older guests using the SUV? These older people can walk ok, can climb steps, do not use a cane or walker, but do walk a bit slower. From my experience, the large Range Rover is hard to get in but I the ML is lower and the sill not so high.
Are these needed? How about for older guests using the SUV? These older people can walk ok, can climb steps, do not use a cane or walker, but do walk a bit slower. From my experience, the large Range Rover is hard to get in but I the ML is lower and the sill not so high.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 4,260
Likes: 6
From: Philadelphia area
2010 ML550, 2010 E350 4M, 1966 Corvette Convt C2
On the build your own MB in the US website, there are two optional steps (running boards) that are available. One is a factory or dealer install bar with a step on it and another is a factory installed flat running board.
Are these needed? How about for older guests using the SUV? These older people can walk ok, can climb steps, do not use a cane or walker, but do walk a bit slower. From my experience, the large Range Rover is hard to get in but I the ML is lower and the sill not so high.
Are these needed? How about for older guests using the SUV? These older people can walk ok, can climb steps, do not use a cane or walker, but do walk a bit slower. From my experience, the large Range Rover is hard to get in but I the ML is lower and the sill not so high.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 6,199
Likes: 243
From: Albuquerque
'10 CL550, '12 GL550
It will have a newer, more powerful engine and the 7-speed transmission, which isn't perfect.
Get out your tape measure and you'll notice the seats of the ML are a full two inches narrower than those in your E-class, meaning the car isn't as comfortable on longer trips, especially if you get MB-Tex.
The brake pedal won't feel as good as that in your E-class.
The ML will have less "trunk" space than your E-class.
The ML will handle like a pig compared to your E-class, but that's the case with any SUV.
Phone and navigation interfaces will be improved on the newer car. SAT radio is very cool, especially on long trips.
As you may have learned when purchasing your E-class, be sure to get ALL the options you want factory installed. Dealer retrofit is always twice to four times as costly.
Fuel economy will be worse than your E-class--it's a lot less aero slippery.
Last edited by lkchris; Apr 17, 2008 at 02:44 PM.
