From both standing start or slow rolling start up to 20 mph if I push gas pedal to the floor I get brief acceleration then immediate loss of power. Tach rpms drop off to idle range and my body snaps forward into seatbelt restraint. I can replicate this at least 50% of the time.

I get no “ESP/traction” warning indicators when the issue occurs.


Independent MB repair shop last week:
1. Found 9 error msgs with same error “ ignition communication error”
2. Cleared all the error msgs
3. Told me to replicate the issue a couple of times and bring the ML550 back for scheduled service and he will read error msg log to see if any error msgs have been logged

On Saturday, I replicated the issue four times on dry pavement. On two occasions I removed the KeyLessGo and used my key fob to turn on the ignition manually. Same issue.

On March 15th I have service appointment scheduled for diagnosing the cause.

Any diagnosis suggestions?

problem fixed

repair shop determined the torque converter lockup solenoid was faulty. repair shop replaced it. $150 part. the tranny fluid needed to refill the transmission was more expensive
total cost $600

not only is the power failure issue solved . the ML550 launches from standing stop better than it ever has since I bought it 3 months ago