2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML500 review from North America
"It performs as advertised, and I like it"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The brakes needed replacement at 20000 miles.
A factory wheel alignment problem wore out tires at 20000 miles, but it is now fixed. I use the factory installed Dunlop brand tires for replacement, with no problem.
I replaced two light bulbs: 1 Headlight & 1 brake light.
The plastic windshield water washer tank was replaced under warrantee after 1 year of service.
The battery failed after 1 year of service.
General comments?
Still using a free replacement battery.
The dealer changes the Mobil 1 oil at every 10000 miles and there is no need for adding more oil en between changes. All warranty repairs were made during the regular 10000 mile service appointments.
The dealer provides me with a free loaner Benz at every 10000 mile inspection. Inspections and service is completed on the same day.
This is my 2nd ML. The first one was a 1998 ML320 which performed as well as this ML500, but I like the smoothness of an 8 cylinder engine.
I have owned five used Mercedes vehicles since 1969, including a 280SE which is waiting to be restored. It has over 260000 miles on the original untouched fuel injected 6 cyl. engine.
Recommended reviews
| Expensive to maintain, and disappointed |
|
| I like it still, I wish it were better |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2002 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 5 liter Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 15 miles |
| Most recent distance | 65000 miles |
| Previous car | Mercedes-Benz M-Class |
| Date of Entry | 20th February, 2008 |