Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Mercedes-Benz ML500
Mercedes-Benz ML500 Models:
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.
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»
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.
Mercedes-Benz ML500 Recalls (Recent)
Trailer Hitch Welds May Not Be Sufficient
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The weld on the trailer hitch assembly may be insufficient and not support a load. If the hitch weld failed, a load may separate from the vehicle, causing a road hazard. Dealers will repair the trailer hitch. The Mercedes-Benz recall number is 2008050004. This recall began during June, 2008.
Learn more »Accelerator Pedal May Not Be Fully Fastened to Its Mount
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The accelerator pedal may be loose due to insecure mounting studs and nuts. This could cause difficulty operating the accelerator. Dealers will inspect and install the mounting nuts of the accelerator pedal if necessary. The Mercedes-Benz recall number is 2006120008. This recall began on January 16, 2007.
Learn more »Incorrect Software Calibration May Cause Fuel Pump to Remain Powered in a Collision
RepairPal Expert Overview:
There is a faulty software calibration that affects several areas including shutting off the fuel supply in a collision. This could cause a fire hazard during an accident. Dealers will reprogram this software. The Mercedes-Benz recall number is 2008 070001. This recall began during August, 2008.
Learn more »Potential Power Steering Fluid Leak
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The hose clamp used to secure the power steering fluid hose at the cooler may not provide sufficient clamping force, resulting in a power steering fluid leak. Loss of power steering fluid can damage the power steering pump and may result in diminished power steering assist, which could lead to a crash. Dealers will replace the power steering hose clamp to correct this concern. The Mercedes-Benz recall number is 2005 050004.
Learn more »Mercedes-Benz ML500 Recall 03V121000
Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE HOSE CLAMP USED TO SECURE THE POWER STEERING FLUID COOLING HOSE TO THE POWER STEERING FLUID COOLER MAY NOT PROVIDE SUFFICIENT CLAMPING FORCE FOR THIS CONNECTION.
Learn more »Mercedes-Benz ML500 Questions and Answers
my door lockes do not work what is wrong
the rear blower on my ml will run sometimes when the ignition switch is off, also it will run for very short periods an cycle on and off??
HOW DO I CHECK THE OIL? I HAVE A SMALL OIL LEAK COMING FROM THE OIL COOLER SEAL.. IS THIS ALSO A COMMON PROBLEM??
my ml500 2002 starts but no acceleration
Compressor on my 02 mercedes does not work. Put a new compressor on car but compressor will not engage.
Mercedes-Benz ML500 Reviews
Hello, my engine light want go off , I had the brakes changed, which the computer said the light was on. but the light stayed on still. Could you please help me? hank-You so much. Debbie Jenkins 423-355-4790
Do not buy this car. Research ML500 and problems on google. You will be glad you did.
I truly enjoy driving this car. It's quite powerful, compared to the Volvo S80 I previously owned. The only things I can complain about are the breaks which make a hell lot of a noise. I tried cleaning them and replacing the pads. It did not help. I even smoothed out the discs (which you're not really supposed to do because they are composite discs) and still no help. Sometimes they screech a lot and sometimes they don't. Another thing is that the suspension is really stiff so if you enjoy driving a Chevy or a Cadillac you may not like this one. You hear and feel every pothole and uneven pavement. Other than those two things the car runs and drives great. It's 9 years old (2002 means it was produced in 2001) but I love it and can't think of buying anything else.
I purchased this car new after owning a 1998 ML320 which was very reliable. The only problems with the 2002 ML500 was that the initial wheel alignment was not accurate, causing premature tire wear. The brake pads also needed replacement at 20K miles. These two items were not covered by factory warranty. I use the 10k maintenance schedule for all inspections and fluid changes. It never requires additional engine oil between inspections. I get 17 MPG in town when the speed limits are obeyed. I also get 22 MPG on the highway at conventional highway speeds. I use regular grade gasoline all the time, with no problems. It is a powerful, smooth performer and has more than 82k miles at this point in time. However my warranty has finally expired. My service manager at Schumacher European does a superb of analyzing and correcting all problems, warranty changes and recalls, which have been few.