Picked up 2009 ML550. ? Where to start.
05-28-2021, 04:46 PM
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ml550
Picked up 2009 ML550. ? Where to start.
Hi,
I am new to the forum. I bought a 2009 ML550 Non Airmatic 135,000 even though everyone in my family told me not to. I couldn't pass it up. One owner 45 service records.
My question is where to I start.
The previous owner brought the car in every 5k miles for oil changes. All service A and B done at MB dealer. Brakes and repair in other tidbits. I think a water pump way back.
Doesn't sound like did anything major. done.
Should I start with Trans Service and maybe spark plugs? Check valves for tensioner? No noises so should I just leave that alone?
What are your thoughts for a newbie?
Thanks
I am new to the forum. I bought a 2009 ML550 Non Airmatic 135,000 even though everyone in my family told me not to. I couldn't pass it up. One owner 45 service records.
My question is where to I start.
The previous owner brought the car in every 5k miles for oil changes. All service A and B done at MB dealer. Brakes and repair in other tidbits. I think a water pump way back.
Doesn't sound like did anything major. done.
Should I start with Trans Service and maybe spark plugs? Check valves for tensioner? No noises so should I just leave that alone?
What are your thoughts for a newbie?
Thanks
05-29-2021, 04:06 AM
#2
MBWorld Fanatic!
05-30-2021, 07:03 AM
#5
Junior Member
I think that getting a copy of EPC/WIS is as important as buying a scanner.
The first will allow you to order parts accurately, and the second will open your eyes when your mechanic messes up.
They are for sale on E-bay.
The first will allow you to order parts accurately, and the second will open your eyes when your mechanic messes up.
They are for sale on E-bay.
05-31-2021, 07:13 AM
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2010 ML550 VIN WDC1641722A564750, 2010 B180
I'd buy a good scan tool as the first thing. There are plenty of recommendations in the forum. You'll save the cost of it the first time you don't have to go to the dealer to get a diagnosis and you'll love the additional data you can see.
Then I'd start with looking at all the fluids - MB don't change diffs and transfer case fluids as part of the servicing. They quote "lifetime fluid" which is rubbish. I'd be changing all of them as well as the transmission, power steering and coolant so at least you have a benchmark. Use only those fluids with the right MB Spec.
Things to check - Rear tail light lenses leak, front suspension bushes all wear as do trailing arm links. Check the oil rebreather on the cylinder head (rear of head, passenger side) to make sure that oil isn't entering the inlet manifold. The cam plugs on the rear of the heads are another common oil leaking point, but the easiest of fixes. The oil cooler seal is another soft point. Given the detailed history you've got, these all might have been attended to.
Good luck and enjoy the V8. Its a great engine.
Then I'd start with looking at all the fluids - MB don't change diffs and transfer case fluids as part of the servicing. They quote "lifetime fluid" which is rubbish. I'd be changing all of them as well as the transmission, power steering and coolant so at least you have a benchmark. Use only those fluids with the right MB Spec.
Things to check - Rear tail light lenses leak, front suspension bushes all wear as do trailing arm links. Check the oil rebreather on the cylinder head (rear of head, passenger side) to make sure that oil isn't entering the inlet manifold. The cam plugs on the rear of the heads are another common oil leaking point, but the easiest of fixes. The oil cooler seal is another soft point. Given the detailed history you've got, these all might have been attended to.
Good luck and enjoy the V8. Its a great engine.
