Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
2003 Mercedes-Benz ML500 Problems
Power Steering Return Hose May Leak at Radiator Cooler Fitting
The power steering return hose may leak at the radiator cooler fitting. If the clamp is not properly tightened, the hose can blow off, causing increased steering effort and a mess under the hood.
Stalling and/or "Crank no Start" Due to Failed Crankshaft Position Sensor
The engine may develop a stalling and/or no start condition due to a failed crankshaft position sensor.
Shutter or Rumbling When Truning at Slow Speeds
Due to slipping clutches in the transfer case, a shudder or rumbling from the center of the vehicle may occur, especially when turning at slow speeds. If the clutches are not too badly worn, changing the fluid will fix this problem. Otherwise, the transfer case will need to be disassembled to change the clutches.
Rear Corner Panels on Sides of Tailgate May Crack/Break
The rear corner panels on either side of the tailgate (black plastic) can crack or break. They should be cut off and the adhesive removed before new panels are glued on.
Brake Light Switch Failure May Cause ESP/BAS Warning Lights
The ESP and BAS warning lights may illuminate due to a failed brake light switch. Replacement of the failed switch should correct this concern. A recall on certain 2002 models have been recalled for a related issue - for more information please click here»
Oil Leaking From Oil Level Sensor
An engine oil leak may develop from the oil level sensor. Replacement of the leaking sensor will commonly correct this concern.
Loss of Power Steering Due to Leaking Steering Rack
It is not uncommon for the power steering rack to develop a fluid leak requiring replacement of the rack assembly. Loss of power steering fluid may also cause an abnormal noise and damage to the power steering pump.
The Differential May Develop Leaks From the Seals or Cover
Leaks may develop from the differential cover and/or seals on high mileage or older vehicles. Our technicians recommend a complete reseal of the differential unit if these leaks are addressed.
Exhaust Leak From Front Catalytic Converter
An exhaust leak may develop due to cracked welds on the front catalytic converter. Replacement of the catalyst is recommended; re-welding of the catalyst is discouraged because it is an emissions device.
The Sunroof May Jam or Not Close Correctly
Arms for the sunroof wind deflector break; if the broken pieces are not removed, they can jam the sunroof.
Door Storage Pockets May Become Upglued and Fall
The door storage pocket can become unglued and fall into the door.
Air Conditioning Not Cold
AC system leaks and/or a faulty evaporator temperature sensor can cause poor AC cooling. The failed sensor can prevent the AC compressor from coming on. Leaks cause a low refrigerant level, which reduces the ability to cool.
Electrical switches in door latches may fail
Electrical switches in the door latches can fail, causing the door locks to rapidly actuate up and down multiple times when the locks are activated by either the keyless remote or door lock switch. A new door latch will need to be installed.
Engine Oil Leak From PCV Vent Housing and/or Engine Inspection Plate
An engine Oil leak may develop from the PCV vent housing on the valve cover and/or the inspection plate on the front of the engine.
Harmonic Balancer May Fail and Damage Timing Cover
The rubber bond in the harmonic balancer can decay, which causes the balancer to move and work its way toward the timing cover. If the balancer comes into contact with the timing cover while the engine is running, it will fracture and damage the cover and potentially other surrounding parts. The harmonic balancer should be inspected at every service.