front differential issue
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: U.S.
2008 ML320 CDI
front differential issue
Greetings.
Hoping I am in the right forum, and being a fresh newbie...here I go: I am about to get a 2008 ML 320 CDi, but it seems that there is an issue with the front differential ( I have paid for a diagnostic) and they came up with a 4700 $ price tag for the parts and labor (+tax). Now, the price for the repair will be paid by the seller, but here is the question - should I back out of this deal or accept the repair as it may be ok? The repair is warranted for 6000 miles or 6 months with OEM parts.
Other than that the car is in impeccable condition based on the dealership inspection.
A second question would be: can the front differential be repaired or is a sealed unit ?
Thank you in advance for your help.
Hoping I am in the right forum, and being a fresh newbie...here I go: I am about to get a 2008 ML 320 CDi, but it seems that there is an issue with the front differential ( I have paid for a diagnostic) and they came up with a 4700 $ price tag for the parts and labor (+tax). Now, the price for the repair will be paid by the seller, but here is the question - should I back out of this deal or accept the repair as it may be ok? The repair is warranted for 6000 miles or 6 months with OEM parts.
Other than that the car is in impeccable condition based on the dealership inspection.
A second question would be: can the front differential be repaired or is a sealed unit ?
Thank you in advance for your help.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 898
Likes: 9
From: Woodstock, IL
His 2019 RAM Cummins Turbo Diesel Laramie; Her's 2007 ML320 CDI P3; Mine BMW R1200R
For that price, sounds like they are going to replace the entire unit. The diff is repairable, usually a bearing that goes bad. Search for my experience posted back in Dec 11. If you do get the ML, change the front and rear diff fluids every 30K miles.
Also have the dealer check for oil leaks under the inlet to the turbocharger. That is also common and an easy fix. (Aging seals)
So to answer your question, If all else checks out, it would be worth owning based on what you have provided.
Give more info... What packages, Airmatic suspension, leather seats, HID lights etc?
If you haven't had a modern MB diesel before you will like the fuel mileage.
Also have the dealer check for oil leaks under the inlet to the turbocharger. That is also common and an easy fix. (Aging seals)
So to answer your question, If all else checks out, it would be worth owning based on what you have provided.
Give more info... What packages, Airmatic suspension, leather seats, HID lights etc?
If you haven't had a modern MB diesel before you will like the fuel mileage.
Last edited by dgiturbo; Jul 21, 2012 at 04:09 PM.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: U.S.
2008 ML320 CDI
Thank you for the quick response. Sounds like good news if is repairable. To me sounds more like a bearing(s) than the differential, but then again, I am not a mechanic. The noise is at to the point that I can barely hear the engine above 40 MPh. As a package this is a fully loaded ML, even original roof rack - except for headlight wipers. I am still learning about W164 - but I really like this car, and I would hate to loose it. Will keep you posted with updates in the coming days.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 625
Likes: 4
From: Australia
X350d GLE500e 2017, ML350 BlueTec 2012(sold), A200 2013, ML350CDI 2009(sold), Aston Martin DB7 2003
If the noise is that bad, it may also be the crown wheel and pinion.
But regardless I agree with dgiturbo.
So you give it to a transmission speciallist who will fix it for much less than $4700, and then put the left over rebate allowance into fresh fluids throughout.
But regardless I agree with dgiturbo.
So you give it to a transmission speciallist who will fix it for much less than $4700, and then put the left over rebate allowance into fresh fluids throughout.
