ONEFASTE55

I have a 2011 ML550. When the headlights are in the Auto Mode, they will stay on in the AM for about an hour and then come on about 3 pm in the afternoon. This happens even when it is bright and sunny.
The dealer has reprogramed the computer and replaced the light sensor. The problem still persists.

Anyone have the same or similar problem? Any solutions?

sosh

My 2010 ML550 does that to a certain extent. Its really the way its supposed to be and yes its a little annoying but I got used to it. I had my dealer attempt to adjust the sensitivity with the STAR system. This is possible with some MB's but we learned the ML is not adjustable. What I have found is that it depends on the angle the light hits the sensor which with a low sun in the AM and PM particularly in the winter it will do this. Does not do it as much in the summer.

C-rod

exact same issue..............with my 11 550, l just try not to look down and notice the icon...........eventually it goes out............l agree with "S", it must be the angle at which the sunlight hits the sensor.........

gsrjc

Mine does the exact same thing...

newyorktoLA

I have a 2010 GL, and the same happens to me. The dealer said they can't replace the light sensor, though...

sosh

They can replace it but it will do no good. Interesting as my 2006 ML500 did not do this. My 2010 E350 4M does not do it either. Its a chacteristic of the 2010 and 2011 ML's and I guess the GL's.

another_geek

It's been a problem for more than a couple years. My 2008 ML does the same thing. I've just learned to live with it.

eeferber

I live with it on my car by NOT using the auto mode. If I can't remember to turn on the headlights at dusk then I shouldn't be driving.

ONEFASTE55

Just came from the dealer and the service manager put some new software in. It did not work.
My dealer was so upset that I was not satisfied, he has offered to replace the car. Now, that is a great dealer and great car service.

That is why I will stick with Mercedes!

sosh

And if they replace the car the new one will do the same thing!

mercedese350

Same here, '11 ML550 noticed since day one, 6000 miles now.

gsrjc

are you sure they said they would replace it? i find it odd that they would volunteer to lemon the car and get you a new one just because the headlights have an issue when in auto mode during the day.

sosh

I too find that odd. I do not believe it and think that poster is either dreaming or has a very vivid imagination. Even if they did replace it he would have the same issue with the new car. Its an ML characteristic, like it or not.

559EVO

Must be a problem with newer models, what did they change?

ONEFASTE55

The dealer has now called in a factory rep. Obviously, they must know about the defect and either have a fix for it or just do not care.

If I do get another ML, I will upgrade to a ML63. Hopefully, this problem does not carry over to the AMG models.

Your are right- another ML 550 would be the same!

ONEFASTE55

I have an excellent relationship with the dealer and have given them a lot of business over the years- Also I have sent them a ton of business.

I am very fortunate- they want to keep me happy!!

sosh

You will notice that the responses to this thread are not all ML550's. I am willing to bet that this characteristic is common with all the ML's including the AMG's. I don't think that your dealer will replace the car at no charge for this issue which is common to all ML's. No matter how many cars you have bought from him. You are dreaming sir!!

ONEFASTE55

But--- It pays to know the right people. New Car on its way!!

sosh

There must be lots more to this story!! What the OP will find out is that this characteristic is common to all ML's regardless of flavor. Its nothing that really concerns me and most likely there is little or no concern with anyone else. Would be different if the lights did not come on at all!