Martin09

I have a 2006 ML 500 with 33k miles. My rear shocks are shot, not by off-roading but from potholes and speed bumps. That's really disappointing for a 'SUV'. I also had to have the front realigned. The W164's suspension seems to be a lot less robust than the W163's. Have others had the same experience?

Another issue that is developing: I notice a burnt rubber smell when I park the car. It is the smell that I associate with slipping break bands in the automatic transmission. Sofar I have no issues with the transmission, but again I solicit comments.

sosh

How did you detirmine that your rear shocks are shot?? At 33K I doubt it. As for alignment, this is maint and is normal particularly if you drive on very bad roads and go over lots of potholes. I have had no issues with mine at all and aftert having 2 W163's prior I find no difference in the durability of this vehicle, in fact at this point I would say its better. Re the odor, smell your trans fluid and see if its smells burnt. Again I doubt if it is caused by that, very unlikely. Most likely its road trash on the exhaust system, cats and mufflers.

Martin09

How did I know? When I traverse a speed bump at a little more than allowed, they punch all the way through. Also I crawled under the car and see that they are oily.
I just ordered a pair of Bilsteins heavy duty for $150 ea.

On the transmission, the ML500 does not have a transmission oil dipstick that I can pull out and sniff. Is there another way?

Thanks for the response