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.
Car Problem Reports
Mercedes-Benz ML350 Steering Rack Prone to Leaks
Mercedes-Benz ML350 Problem
28 Reports
Model Years Affected: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Average Mileage: 73,193 mi (60 mi - 120,000 mi)
Verified
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Chemawa, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 76,000 miEnthusiast
Had to replace the power steering at 59000 miles. Just learned that there was a recall. I was never notified of this by the dealer since I did not own the vehicle when I they sent out notices. So aggravated and seeking recourse.
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Visitor, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 54,000 mi
My 2008 ML350 has developed a very tight steering issue, especially when stopped or moving slowly. The driver can feel flat spots when trying to turn the wheel and the wheel is very difficult to turn. After a decent amount of driving time, it seems to ease up, but for shorter commutes the hard steering lasts the entire time.
Power steering fluid has been topped off but wasn't noticeably low when checked. This is a safty concern and it worries me that Mercedes is aware of this, due to the number of customer complaints, and has done nothing about this. Many of these vehicles are driven by females, namely mothers with children, and this problem should be looked into and a permanent repair should come from Mercedes.
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Visitor, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 59,000 mi
I can't believe it. I just paid off my car and now I have to deal with expensive repairs. This is my 2nd Mercedes. I will never buy another one again.
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Visitor, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 120,000 mi
Power steering leak replaced the unit holding fluid starting to leak 50,000 miles later or 2 years.
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Visitor, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 99,000 mi
it leaks......a lot..have to put fluid in every 10 days
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Visitor, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 84,000 mi
I had the same problem with the steering and two leaks. It cost me a great deal to get it fixed, shortly after that the car started to make a funny noise every time you start the engine. The engine light came on and the car started making a rocking motion and then I could not get the car to start after that. It was towed to the dealership.
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maryp518, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 110,000 miRookie
I had the same problem, it was originally recalled in 2003, for 2003 MB ML350, got fixed by the MB dealership, now it has a grinding sounds. Don't know what to do.
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cam1, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 76,000 miRookie
Just learned that my steering rack is leaking and needs to be replaced. $1500 for the parts plus $600 labor. Called Mercedes, they told me there is no recall on that.
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Visitor, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 60 mi
Power steering leak
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Visitor, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML350, 50,000 mi
started with a leak that was not repaired properly and now the dealer is stating that the whole steering rack needs replacing.
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