roger.perales

I recently discovered that my 2012 ML350 needs the transfer case replaced. Is this a common issue or a manufacturing defect? The dealer wants to charge upwards of 6K to perform the service. Any recommendations?

Zuffen

The two lugs supporting the tensioner inside can fail.

There is a Thread on here about a DIY fix.

If it was me, I'd buy a used transfer and swap it over.

roger.perales

Thanks Zuffen

I’ll find a mechanic that can do the swap. My Ml350 has around 150k miles on it so I wasn’t sure if this is something that happens at high mileage.

VolaCola

Hey roger, I found this thread a while back when I was researching potential problems with the W166. The guys talk about ordering rebuilt TC's from lisbontruck.com or cobratransmission.com if you are interested. Apparently it's a 5 - 6 hour job to swap them out.

https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...50-diesel.html

roger.perales

Hi VolaCola,

thanks for your info! I am going to reach out to the mechanic tomorrow. They were also quoting me 5k to 6k to do the work for the replacement.

VolaCola

Glad I could help. It sounds like the rebuilt TC's run around $1500 USD so it seems like it should be < $3000 total if you go the rebuilt route.

Let me know what happens.

VolaCola

So what did your mechanic have to say?