Starting at 12,000 miles, we have had to replace the brake pads each 7-10,000 miles. That is a lot of replacement brake pads. I am now at 43,000 miles and have had three complete replacements of front and back brakes. Sitting in the dealership and listening to the other customers, this is not an isolated problem. It is not my driving, it is not from our lack of proper care. The car simply has a problem with brakes and brake pads.
I have had no other problems with the car. When we are not replacing the brakes and the pads, it is a nice car to drive.
I think my next car will not be a MB. A Corvette is looking good these days, and the replacement parts for brakes is so much less.. I can put my pedal to the metal in a Corvette and at least have memory of fun when I am paying for replacement brakes.
Yeah you're not alone on this one. We had an ML500 which we used to drive from the Los Angeles area up to our house on Lake Arrowhead, and it went through brake pads like crazy. I first thought it was from using the brake so much when coming downhill, but after talking to several ML owners I learned this was a common issue. After numerous other little problems we decided to sell the ML500. We now have a Lexus LX470 for our mountain use. I have to say we're much happier.
Your case is isolated. I have changed brakes on several w163's. None of them presented the need in an unusual time. Brake replacement is more an indicator of driving style. If you live in a big city and have to brake often and hard on the expressway on a regular basis, you will need a brake change sooner.
Honestly, replacing brakes on this model is straight forward. Buy the parts-dealership or aftermarket and you can do it your self quite easily. Just remember to back the parking brake off when removing the rear rotors.
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