Major Problems with Mercedes-Benz M-Class Derived from Complaints & Recalls

Learn about the common problems with a used Mercedes-Benz M-Class to avoid purchasing a bad year of the model.

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Best and Worst Years for Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Explore the chart showing how many complaints have been filed for each year of Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

Model Year Complaints
2009 M-Class
1
2008 M-Class
1
2007 M-Class
1
2006 M-Class
7
2003 M-Class
4
2002 M-Class
3
2001 M-Class
2
2000 M-Class
16
1999 M-Class
8

Worst 3 Mercedes-Benz M-Class complaints

2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class SEAT HEATER/COOLER Victims: 2 Mileage: 28000 miles

1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class FUEL PUMP

1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class STEERING Mileage: 45000 miles

Browse Mercedes-Benz M-Class complaints by category

Problems with STEERING, ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM are the most frequent issues recorded by the NHTSA from Mercedes-Benz M-Class owners.

Problem Category Number of Problems
STEERING
the power steering rack developed a leak causing the oil pressure to the unit to fail resulting in loss of...
8
~ 72031 miles
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
while driving her 2002 mercedes ml 500 at a steady 40 mph in traffic the electronic stability control engaged for...
7
~ 99783 miles
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
malfunction in the driver's seat back rest heating system caused melting of the upholstery and of the outer layer of...
6
~ 45570 miles
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
my biggest concern with the ml320 that i have owned since 2002 but not the only concern would be the...
4
~ 101025 miles
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
regarding: odi id number 10130895 i had similar issues with the vehicle and mercedes benz could not replicate the problem...
3
~ 28800 miles
SEATS
malfunction in the driver's seat back rest heating system caused melting of the upholstery and of the outer layer of...
2
~ 124018 miles
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION > POWER TRAIN
2006 ml350 transmission failure: while exiting from interstate i notice that the car was jerking/knocking when i was slowing down....
2
~ 39200 miles
ELECTRICAL > EQUIPMENT
engine runs rough idles like it is going to die car surges forward while moving or stopped dash warning lights...
2
~ 60000 miles
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
dt: the consumer owns a 2006 mercedes ml350. when she purchased the vehicle the motor raced when it was started....
2
HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS > HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST > STEERING
power steering fluid hose came unattached form the radiator (clamp failed) power steering fluid sprayed over the engine compartment. no...
2
~ 49350 miles
SUSPENSION
the airmatic system began to fail. the front left strut quit working and had to be replaced. since that time...
1
~ 56646 miles
SERVICE BRAKES
at highway speed car jerked violently to the left as off the from right brake was being applied on its...
1
~ 67600 miles
POWER TRAIN
two problems - first transmission do not switch higher than second speed. upon engine restart vehicle drove properly. second on...
1
~ 74600 miles
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
the antilock braking system can take over throttle and braking. vehicle will automatically apply brakes to various wheels. it will...
1
~ 120000 miles
TAILGATE > BODY > STRUCTURE
power tailgates for some mfg s (including even mercedes benz) are poorly designed having no limit switches to prevent crushing
1
HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS > FOUNDATION COMPONENTS > SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
without any warning when coming to a traffic stop the brake pedal on my 2000 mercedes ml55 went to the...
1
~ 66335 miles
SEAT HEATER/COOLER > FRONT ASSEMBLY > SEATS
tl*the contact owns a 2003 mercedes-benz ml55. while driving 60 mph he engaged the seat heater. the front and rear...
1
~ 28000 miles
SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE > FRONTAL > AIR BAGS
tl* - the contact called to report that the airbag indicator light says that the airbag is off in her...
1
ENGINE > ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
engine runs rough idles like it is going to die car surges forward while moving or stopped dash warning lights...
1
~ 75000 miles
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
rust has formed on both the lower portion of the upper right and left side fenders where fender bolts apparently...
1
~ 100000 miles
CONTROL UNIT/MODULE > ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP > SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
bas/esp light comes on brakes engage steering wheel turns to the right...happens at speeds 60 mph and higher car difficult...
1
~ 37648 miles
AIR BAGS
i was hit on the passenger door side on 8/6/05 by a car running a red light. my car was...
1
MODULE > IGNITION > ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
the vehicle is a 2000 ml 320 made by mercedes. the engine just stopped. i was on the freeway driving...
1
~ 76000 miles
DRIVESHAFT > DRIVELINE > POWER TRAIN
drive shaft failure. *la...
1
~ 100000 miles
INTERIOR/UNDER DASH > WIRING > ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
electrical:mcs unit radio/cassette player defect. mcs unit malfunctioned(screen black out and all operations ceased)mb may exchange if under warranty and...
1
~ 30000 miles
SEAT BELTS
transmission failed repaired four times electrical system battery failed replaced oz sensor failed replace 3 times fuel system pump and
1
FUEL PUMP > DELIVERY > FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
transmission failed repaired four times electrical system battery failed replaced oz sensor failed replace 3 times fuel system pump and
1
EMISSION CONTROL > EXHAUST SYSTEM > ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
transmission failed repaired four times electrical system battery failed replaced oz sensor failed replace 3 times fuel system pump and
1
MANUAL TRANSMISSION > POWER TRAIN
transmission failed repaired four times electrical system battery failed replaced oz sensor failed replace 3 times fuel system pump and
1
EXTERIOR > REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES > VISIBILITY
design defect in side rearview mirror. it will not extended far enough up and outwards causing poor visibility. *ak *ml...
1

FAQ

What year Mercedes-Benz M-Class is the most reliable?

Speaking of the models produced in the last 9 years, Mercedes-Benz M-Class models of 2009, 2008, 2007 year of manufacture have had the least number of complaints.

What year was a bad year for Mercedes-Benz M-Class?

Mercedes-Benz M-Class models of 2000 and 1999 are probably the years to be avoided like the plague due to a higher than an average number of issues reported.

Torque wrench

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Mechanic tool set

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Tool box

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Mercedes-Benz M-Class specs
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Performance

0-60 times

Exterior

Wheels
Wheel Interchange
Dimensions
Ground clearance
Weight

Interior

Steering wheel
Speakers size

Maintenance

Towing Capacity
Fuses
Gas tank size
Gas type
Safety ratings
Complaints
Mpg

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