2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550 Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550 engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550 engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What diagnostic steps should be taken to address the stalling issue in a 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550?

To effectively address the stalling issue in your 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550, start by checking for any illuminated warning lights on the dashboard, particularly the Check Engine Light, as this can provide crucial diagnostic codes. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve these error codes, which will help you identify specific problems. After that, inspect the fuel system, including the fuel pump, filter, and injectors, as any malfunction here can lead to stalling. Don’t overlook the ignition system; check the spark plugs, ignition coils, and cables for wear or damage. Additionally, ensure that the battery and charging system are functioning properly, as electrical issues can also contribute to stalling. It’s important to examine the air intake system for any clogs or leaks that could disrupt the air-fuel mixture. Finally, evaluate the performance of various sensors, such as the mass airflow and throttle position sensors, since faulty sensors can significantly impact engine performance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and resolve the stalling issue, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550?

When experiencing engine stalling in a 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty mass airflow sensor, which can disrupt the delicate balance of air and fuel entering the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, issues with the fuel pump, such as clogs or mechanical failures, can prevent adequate fuel delivery, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly. The ignition system also plays a critical role; faulty spark plugs or a failing ignition coil can result in misfires that contribute to stalling. Another area to inspect is for vacuum leaks, which can interfere with the engine's air intake and overall performance. Furthermore, dirty or clogged fuel injectors can hinder fuel delivery, exacerbating stalling issues. Lastly, a malfunctioning throttle body can disrupt airflow, leading to rough idling and stalling. By systematically diagnosing these potential problems, DIYers can effectively address engine stalling in their ML550 and restore optimal performance.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550 is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. Stalling can occur unexpectedly, particularly at high speeds or in heavy traffic, increasing the likelihood of accidents and jeopardizing the safety of both the driver and other road users. Moreover, neglecting this problem can lead to more severe damage to the vehicle's engine and related components, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. By addressing the stalling issue promptly, you not only enhance the reliability of your vehicle for daily use but also prevent the inconvenience of unexpected breakdowns. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize this issue to ensure your vehicle remains safe and dependable on the road.

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2010 Mercedes-Benz ML550 Engine Stalling Causes & Repairs