2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML 320 from North America - Comments

I am very unhappy with my ML320.

It has so many problems that I don't enjoy the car anymore.

The very first day, I could not start it. I had to bring for repair. Then, the windows did not close. I had to bring for service again.

Now, discover that the rubber frame of windshield is cracked. Also, the leather seat has a scar or some defects the would not be expected from MB. When I came to my service center, I was told that all M-class cars have the windshield crakes, and the leather has a defect but will not be changed.

Why do I have so many problems?

Avoid the M Class.

I have a 1999 ML430. I have only had it since May of this year, but we have the sky view sun roof. Recently it would not close. We took it to a Mercedes dealer not only could the not get it closed they said it would cost 5,300.00 to have it fixed. I am not impressed. That cost has got to tell you something about the design. It cannot be repaid unless you take out the entire top of the car. Who can afford that after paying the cost of the car itself?

I have an ML430 with the sky roof. Recently we had a tremendous amount of rain in Los Angeles. I noticed a huge leak in the car under the A/C vents. Took it to the dealer who said it was because the drain tubes of the sky roof are clogged with leafs. I assumed it would be covered under the warranty, and was shocked to hear it's not. I was not even aware of any "drain tubes" nor did I find anything about them in my manual. No one at the dealer ever told me about them when we purchased the car. The car is regularly washed at the car wash, and I take good care of it. Shouldn't this be covered under the warranty? Sounds like a bad design problem to me. What do you think?

My 2001 ML320 has a general recommendation to change the fuel filter at 60,000 miles. I went to the dealership to buy the filter, and have it installed. But, the filter has been redesigned by the manufacture along with 3 fuel lines. Now, it is a major project to change a simple fuel filter on the 2001 ML. Why is this not covered in the warranty? I know the 60,000 interval is beyond the 50,000 factory warranty, but please, a fuel filter redesign???

All sunroofs have some type of drain systems built in to them to help prevent leakage into the passenger compartment and will need to be cleaned at the owners discretion. While information may not be found in the owners manual or passed on by the supplier of the vehicle at the point of sale it is important to protect yourself and the vehicle by asking your favorite technician who is familiar with your vehicle if there are any things that may need occasional attention like the sunroof.

There is countless information about vehicles available from many sources, but no way to convey it all at once in a way that is easy to understand. The fuel filters on most all cars will need replacing when dirty and this can occur sooner than 60000 miles on any vehicle. As for warranty covering these items they are both caused by dirt not a manufacturer defect and that is why they are not covered.

As for change in parts design it sometimes happens in mid production year and may help to bring costs down by making the part fit more applications. Good luck too you all, and for the persons with sunroof failure (try looking at used parts) you may be surprised at how affordable it can be.

Name withheld. Certified ASE Master tech. Advanced drive-ability specialist not employed by any manufacturer.

Hi.

I am having the same problem with my ML320. My SkyView roof is jammed. Right now it is disabled for operation. I would really appreciate any help on how I can get this fixed at affordable rates.

Thanks

Bob.