Militant-Grunt

Hello guys,

My father will be purchasing an 2001 Ml 55 AMG with around 40-50k miles on it. I already know plenty on the car except one thing. Is it reailable? Because I know as a fact that the normal Ml's are just bad.. Im hoping since this 342hp monster has a hand built engine and has that Amg "touch", I wouldnt expect it to break down as often. Just a month left before I begin my quest to buy one. Should O be changing my mind?

*Gas not a factor, I have a land rover discovery I (Way worse mileage)

So any and all info would be greatly appreciated =D

55fanatic

well although I have not experienced any stalls or unstartable events ML55s experience many of the same common ML issues. IE- bad catalytic converters, etc(check the ML forum for a more detailed list of common problems) All in all I am still happy with mine!!! Look for an 02 as many of the common problems were solved with the newer w163

rnkc

There are not much big issue/problem with ML55 except the brake, prepare to have pad and rotor replace around every 20k.
I had my 55 for 3 years and I had changed 2 times, almost once a year after each winter.

Militant-Grunt

How much do they usually cost to replace?
I am praying that Im not making a mistake of getting a ml55 amg. Instead id get a 04 C230 Kompressor sedan..

55fanatic

well I spent 300 on pads alone from the dealership, I believe rotors will cost you about another 5-600 maybe more, I also did the work myself at my family's garage and purchased the parts on wholesale discount...Im at about 15k miles on my second set of pads and they are starting to get iffy... Could prolly do some aftermarket set up that might last a little longer, but brakes of any kind are going to get beaten up by the ML as its tough to stop a 6500lb SUV

AMGgirl

Other than the brake pad/rotor issue that the other guys have mentioned here, I have had no problems with my ML55. I drive it year round, putting snow tires on when the weather gets bad. Good luck and post pics when/if you get the truck!

55fanatic

Audrey welcome to MBWorld...And Grunt I dont know where you are from but if it is in a winter weather state(one with snow) invest in some 17" wheels with snow tires as you 18" wheel will not bring you very far in anything more than a dusting of snow...

Militant-Grunt

=O... I live in New york city.. and from time to time we do get some snow. Not a problem with the rover, but the ml55 has no grip in the snow?

sprins

With the snow I have experienced the 18" wheels work very well. The ML is a fine 4WD car that handles great in bad weather, snow or offroad. Perhaps 55fanatic is referring to more apocalyptic ammounts of snow.

Indeed look for a MY2002 with the updated mirrors and updated interior (window buttons on left/right side of shifter) and a lot of updates under the bonnet.

Here is some more info about 2nd hand MLs, it's a nice read: http://driving.timesonline.co.uk/art...113629,00.html

C-rod

l agree..........look for a 2002 or 2003, if you can find one...l just "LOVE IT"..The upgrades are excellent.....The automatic climate control, nicer, more durable leather, turn-signal mirors....Prior to this vehicle, l owned a 99 ML 430....no comparsion....the build quality is much more solid.....l sure hope Mercedes is headed in the right direction, when it comes to quality...

Rlo

The scenario would be, 15k or somepoint in 2006 for manu warranty, the certified for an additional year, correct me if I'm in error


Like to get a sense, seeing how the 2006 ML has been introduced and the pricing effect it might have , then c pre owned ML's

Also, I think its too risky buying on a private sale, losing out on the additional year/s of certification

Thanks, Ron

55fanatic

well the pricing of MLs has already taken a huge dive in there book value because of the W164 release, I dont see the 55s takin too much more of a HUGE price drop again even with the release of the new AMG model(ML63 is that it, do we know what it will be?)

amgcool

militant-grunt, you have a private message.

55fanatic

he got one guys!!! he paid like 28K on an ebay auction for one still under factory warranty!!!

Militant-Grunt

Yep, sorry about not posting about that yet, But im waiting on her delivery, so I can take my own pics, drive her and get to know her. =D Ill be sure to post in the ML section