2000 Mercedes Benz ML320
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Mercedes Benz › ML320 › 2000
These records cover every 2000 Mercedes Benz ML320. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
166 complaints13 involved a crash6 involved a fire16 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Service brakes
I was driving full freeway speed when the brake assist system suddenly engaged which slammed on my brakes immediately and sent me skidding all over the freeway trying to maintain control of the vehicle and not crash into anything. All the while the cars behind me had to veer out of the way.…
I was driving full freeway speed when the brake assist system suddenly engaged which slammed on my brakes immediately and sent me skidding all over the freeway trying to maintain control of the vehicle and not crash into anything. All the while the cars behind me had to veer out of the way. Several accidents were almost caused by this incident. This safety feature is now a safety hazard. This should never ever happen. This I'd comparable to an airbag suddenly deploying while driving. An absolutely terrifying experience. The bas fct light came on which is how I learned of the brake assist system. This problem is repeatable because it happened 2 more times as I had to get my vehicle home but luckily I didn't date take the freeway again. Problem just started 5/7/23 without any warning at all.
- Service brakes
Hard braking suddenly activated without driver input, smoke coming from front wheels. YAW SENSOR malfunction indicated by OBD scanner (checked after incident)
- Electrical system · Steering
I bought this vehicle from the auction in algona named whitey's public auto auction and that very day I had to put power steering fluid in because there was a leak and it was difficult to turn. I've had the power steering pump replaced and it continues to leak. I got on the internet and started to research and found out about the recall.
- Steering · Vehicle speed control · Wheels
Steering IS hard to turn. Over heats and will not keep coolinat down
- Fuel/propulsion system
The method in which a fuel tank IS fastened to the vehicle chassis uses a steel strut to support a series of stainless steel straps. The dissimilarity in metals used in fastening the hardware of both combined with exposure to the elements will cause the strut to corrode without warning and the…
The method in which a fuel tank IS fastened to the vehicle chassis uses a steel strut to support a series of stainless steel straps. The dissimilarity in metals used in fastening the hardware of both combined with exposure to the elements will cause the strut to corrode without warning and the fuel tank to drop onto the roadway without prior symptoms or warning. The corrosion at the critical fasting points IS not obvious with routine inspection. With many of these vehicles manufactured from 1998 through 2005 still on the road today, owners should be made aware of this potential safety issue.
- Air bags · Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
Srs. Ets. Aba lights on. Buzzing. *tr
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Fuel/propulsion system · Steering
As I noticed in other complaints they all focus in the power steering issues, fuel / oil leaks and loss, esp option , electrical mail functions that relate with the ecu, problem with the shifter. All these are safety concerns since all the above problems can cause an accident . I have the same…
As I noticed in other complaints they all focus in the power steering issues, fuel / oil leaks and loss, esp option , electrical mail functions that relate with the ecu, problem with the shifter. All these are safety concerns since all the above problems can cause an accident . I have the same problems in my car and it IS really difficult to operate the vehicle. The power steering IS not working as the car IS not in speed motion unless you use strength to turn the wheel , the esp IS not working at all , the shifter IS not changing to drive unless you override it and that's the only way to start it and the fuel along with the oil IS leaking and all the fluids are disappearing in no time . All these are safety hazards and not just a simple problem . There should have been a repair for all of these issues asap free of charge from mercedes for the owners of the particular defective vehicles . Thank you in advance
- Engine · Unknown or other
Ongoing issue that IS sometimes difficult to replicate. Vehicle will suddenly die while driving or idling, without warning, and take approximately 20 minutes to restart. Ignition will sometimes stick and not start. Vehicle almost crashed into another vehicle in one instance where sudden loss of power occurred while approaching stop light.
- Steering
My power steering goes out alot and as well leak onto the ground I find it very hard to steer my car at times . The power steering fluid doesn't last very long it's been fixed 1 and the problem persist .
- Steering
Difficult turning left or right. Uses lot of force to move the stelring
- Electrical system
Takata recall I just bought a 2000 mercedes ML 320. My ac stopped working and took it to a mercedes certified mechanic. Told me it was a pressure sensor. He then called me back and told me that the wiring harness had fallen apart and all wires were touching each other making shorts thru out the…
Takata recall I just bought a 2000 mercedes ML 320. My ac stopped working and took it to a mercedes certified mechanic. Told me it was a pressure sensor. He then called me back and told me that the wiring harness had fallen apart and all wires were touching each other making shorts thru out the car. He told me that the shorts had fried my computer and the only way to fix all this was to replace the wiring harness. At almost $2000.00 for the repair it seems that mercedes intentionally did this to make money. they should be held accountable to repair this issue as they did it so the wiring harness would bio degrade when the car was junked. Not a good practice to sell cars in the united states.
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system › Fan · Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Emission control › Catalytic convertor · Latches/locks/linkages
2000 mercedes benz ml320. Consumer writes in regards to cracked exhaust system and cracked catalytic converter. *Ld the consumer stated the vehicle was visually inspected and documented that recall repair was completed. No repairs were made. *Js
- Exterior lighting · Structure › Body · Wheels
On april 21, 2016 we purchased two used tires from a local company called tire tracks for our son's car. they were general tires called "grabbers", p255/65r16. the rear tires were moved to the front and the tires that we purchased were put on the rear of the vehicle. a "courtesy inspection" was…
On april 21, 2016 we purchased two used tires from a local company called tire tracks for our son's car. they were general tires called "grabbers", p255/65r16. the rear tires were moved to the front and the tires that we purchased were put on the rear of the vehicle. a "courtesy inspection" was performed. on may 12, 2016 our son had a left rear blowout as he was exiting I-49 south. he was not injured but there was damage to his car where the steel belt had repeatedly hit his car until he could pull over safely. the company replaced the tire. then on june 15, 2016 I was following my son home from little rock. we were traveling north on I-49. he was in the left lane traveling 70-75 mph and had another blowout with the right rear tire. thankfully, he was not injured and was able to safely pull onto the shoulder. damage to his car was more severe. his right rear tail light was busted as well as his bumper. again, the right rear fender sustained damage because of the steel belt repeatedly hitting his car. the company
- Service brakes
Sudden and complete failure of front brakes due to breakage of front steel brake lines, lost all fluid, fortunately happened in the parking lot and not during a recent trip to mass and new york city
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting › Headlights · Service brakes · Steering · Visibility
TL* the contact owns a 2000 mercedes-benz ml320. When the contact attempted to roll down both passenger side windows, they failed to roll down. The headlights and instrument panel lights failed to illuminate. The ABS, brake failure switch, and esp warning lights illuminated. When using the power…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 mercedes-benz ml320. When the contact attempted to roll down both passenger side windows, they failed to roll down. The headlights and instrument panel lights failed to illuminate. The ABS, brake failure switch, and esp warning lights illuminated. When using the power steering to attempt to turn the vehicle, the warning light illuminated, indicating a malfunction of the power steering. The vehicle hesitated before completing the turn. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 200,000.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
Was driving truck at highway, when brakes activated by itself, ABS, traction light, brake lamp and hazards flashed. Had to immediately move to side of road, while brakes where activating. Felt as if ABS was activating as if I was sliding on and icy road. Had to have vehicle towed as I was not able to move more that 5 feet
- Service brakes
Brake line rusted and brakes failed completely suddenly when my mechanic was moving auto from his garage after servicing my transmission I probably would have been in a serious accident had I picked up my car without that happening to him never expected a brake line to rust and cause brakes to suddenly be gone I am so worried another car will cause deaths if this defect IS not known to owner
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2000 mercedes benz ml320. While the vehicle was being test driven by an independent mechanic, the brakes failed without warning. It was diagnosed that the brake line was rusted and failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
- Service brakes
I have experienced multiple incidents of a situation where the ABS, esp, and ets lights come on and a noise occurs when depressing the gas pedal at low speeds. the noise stops only when the brake pedal IS depressed or at speeds over 40 mph. there IS also a vibration that occurs that can be felt…
I have experienced multiple incidents of a situation where the ABS, esp, and ets lights come on and a noise occurs when depressing the gas pedal at low speeds. the noise stops only when the brake pedal IS depressed or at speeds over 40 mph. there IS also a vibration that occurs that can be felt by depressing the brake pedal. the noise continues as soon as the brake pedal IS released. the car becomes difficult to drive. turning the car off and on again does not clear the problem. when the car IS turned off, a noise can be heard coming from under the hood that sounds like a motor or a fan that IS running. this continues for hours. the hood of the car becomes warm to hot to the touch. at some point the fan or motor stops running. if the car battery has not been drained, the car functions normally--until the next time that the problem occurs. after a quick internet search, I found many similar reports of these symptoms by other owners of this make and model vehicle of the same or similar year of manufacture. the vehicle owners have received diagnoses of a bad ABS control module, a bad ABS pump, bad solder joints on the ABS pump assembly's circuit board, or bad relays in the fuse box. repairs have cost in the thousands of dollars for what IS apparently, a known defect. drivers of these vehicles have been subjected to frightening incidents where their safety has been compromised by their vehicles. I realize that the law governs safety defects in cars manufactured within the last 10 years. however, people with older cars need recourse for known defects. A mercedes such as mine, that only has only a little over 100K miles and that has been well maintained, has a life expectancy of at least another 50K to 100K miles. however, they should be safe miles. *tr
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
Vehicle automatically switches off its anti-lock-brake and electronic-stability-control systems for unknown reason, thereby endangering its driver and passengers, as well as other vehicle's drivers and passengers, every time it's driven. *tr
- Air bags
Defective passenger seat occupancy sensor turns airbag and seat-belt tensioner off whenever there's a passenger riding in the car, preventing the passenger-side airbag from deploying and the seat-belt from working properly. *tr
- Engine · Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
I was on the freeway, I was using my cruise control (luckily just after heavy traffic hours) just like any other day. A car slowed in front of me, so I went to apply my brakes. As soon as I hit the brake pedal the brakes not only did not disengage the cruise control but the brakes got stiff and…
I was on the freeway, I was using my cruise control (luckily just after heavy traffic hours) just like any other day. A car slowed in front of me, so I went to apply my brakes. As soon as I hit the brake pedal the brakes not only did not disengage the cruise control but the brakes got stiff and would not work no matter how hard I pressed them. At the same time the accelerator was floored and the car was trying to go what seems like 130-140 mph. It took all my strength to try and keep it at an appropriate speed. Luckily my passenger told me to stay calm and tried to help me disengage the cruise control. I had to maneuver the car to the slowest lane and shift it into neutral. That was the only option I had besides crashing into the car in front of me. I am extremely shaken from this event, I have anxiety/panic attacks whenever I drive any vehicle now. I am currently looking for a physician to help me work out some kind of treatment/therapy.
- Service brakes · Steering
Driving on interstate 295 in jacksonville fl at approximately 70 mph in the middle lane and the brakes locked up for 5-10 seconds and the bas/esp light came on. I nearly lost control of the vehicle and accidentally cut off several cars in the lane to my right. fortunately nobody was injured, but…
Driving on interstate 295 in jacksonville fl at approximately 70 mph in the middle lane and the brakes locked up for 5-10 seconds and the bas/esp light came on. I nearly lost control of the vehicle and accidentally cut off several cars in the lane to my right. fortunately nobody was injured, but it could have been very dangerous! after stopping, and shutting the car off, at an exit for so I could see if I could spot anything I tried to make my way home (off the interstate). the bas/esp light was off, and everything seemed to be alright. however, after about 30 minutes, the brakes locked up again. I was only going about 30 mph, but I was forced to come to a complete stop. there was a car behind me, but they were able to get around me safely. *tr
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
The vehicle brakes, within a five second period, violently engage at seeming random patterns and bring the vehicle to a complete stop. This IS happened twice on two different days roughly a month apart, and only twice, in the same location at exactly the same driving conditions (vehicle speed…
The vehicle brakes, within a five second period, violently engage at seeming random patterns and bring the vehicle to a complete stop. This IS happened twice on two different days roughly a month apart, and only twice, in the same location at exactly the same driving conditions (vehicle speed, weather - sunny day no rain, straight road, light traffic, same 25-30 mph speed). I went to the mercedes dealer in tysons corner and they said they did not know of a recall for this issue. The interesting thing about the location IS that it IS in within 50M of high capacity power lines which go over the road, and within 300M of an extremely powerful radio antenna tructure tower. I believe the electronics of one or both of these are causing the car's electronic stablility control /brake assist computer to go haywire and cause a complete loss of vehicle control. The location IS on route 29 lee highway, va right before the bridge that crosses over the beltway going westbound, just past where you cross under the power lines that go overhead. The radio tower IS on the other side of this bridge. 95% of the time I drove this exact route over the past several years this problem does not happen, so it IS an intermittent issue. Turning the engine off twice seems to reset the system and it seems to work fine. also note that these powerlines, without fail, also cause the same car's alarm to go off 100% of the time when I park within 100M of them. The dealer did acknowledge that this make/model/year can have a spontaneous car alarm issue. Hopefully this will help solve the problem of electrical interference with the cars braking safety computer and prevent a serious accident in the future for someone else. It would useful for your staff to use a geographic information system to map the similar incidents. I suspect they are all near electrical or radio interference as well. *tr
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes, hydraulic
I was driving and abruptly the vehicle started to skid and it almost came to a complete stop although I was not pressing the brake pedal. *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Brake lamp switch failure.
ODI opened the investigation based on reports that the subject vehicle brake lamp switch (switch) failure caused 1) inoperative brake lamps (stay on or fail to illuminate), and/or 2) shift interlock failure (shifter locked in park), and/or 3) the cruise control to fail to cancel with brake application.Consumers also…
ODI opened the investigation based on reports that the subject vehicle brake lamp switch (switch) failure caused 1) inoperative brake lamps (stay on or fail to illuminate), and/or 2) shift interlock failure (shifter locked in park), and/or 3) the cruise control to fail to cancel with brake application.Consumers also reported the illumination of a warning lamp on the instrument panel.The switch contains three sets of electrical contacts and a (normally extended) spring loaded plunger that actuates the contacts as it moves.As installed in the vehicle, the plunger contacts the brake pedal arm and is pushed into the switch; as the driver applies the pedal the plunger extends.One set of contacts (BLS) operates the stop lamps, a second set (EWM) controls the shift interlock system, and a third set (BS) is used by an on-board diagnostic (OBD) system to monitor switch operation.The cruise control monitors the BLS signal to determine when the brake is applied, the primary way the system is disabled when set.The relative timing of contact actuation in response to plunger movement allows the OBD system to detect a switch fault.When a fault is detected a malfunction indication lamp (MIL) is illuminated (driver alert), a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is stored (for the service technician), and cruise control operation is inhibited (as a failsafe).In its response to ODI's January 2011 information request letter, MB explained its assessment of switch failures which was based primarily on evaluation of field return failures.MB identified both 1) electrical contact and 2) mechanical switch failure mechanisms.According to MB's analysis, electrical contact failure is the predominate failure type and the failure consequence depends on which contact fails.For instance MB claims that BLS contact failures are momentary in nature and do not affect brake light operation but are nonetheless detected by the OBD system, resulting in a DTC and subsequent replacement.Electrical contact failures of the BS and EWM contacts result in a DTC also, and EWM contact failures result in the shifter being stuck in the park (which can be overridden by the consumer).Accordingly MB maintains that electrical contact failures of the switch have no safety consequence since the brake lamps remain operational and the cruise control is always disabled.MB determined that mechanical failures of the switch, which are rare in their assessment, can result from internal wear and/or increased switch operating temperatures.High temperatures occur due to overheating of the BLS contacts and can cause the internal plastic components to melt.In one scenario overheated BLS contacts may melt to the extended plunger and are damaged when the brake pedal is released resulting in the brake lights staying on.In another scenario the increased temperatures and/or internal wear can cause the plunger to stick in the fully depressed position.In this case the cruise may not cancel when the brake is applied and the driver may have to use high brake pedal forces or other means (shifting to neutral or using the cruise master switch) to disengage the cruise.Additionally the vacuum assist can be depleted if the driver pumps the brakes resulting in reduced braking effectiveness and even higher pedal forces.In its March 31, 2011 defect notification, MB stated that to remediate the potential need for excessive brake force it would conduct a safety recall (11V-208) to replace the switch with a more robustly designed component.The recall includes 136,751 model year 2000 - 2002 M-Class and model year 2000 - 2004 M-Class AMG vehicles.Owner notification letters will be mailed
- Electronic stability control malfunction
Odi opened pe07-007 after receiving 4 complaints within a 6 week period alleging incidents of uncommanded brake application in model year (my) 2000 through 2001 mercedes m class sport utility vehicles.information contained in the reports or gathered in subsequent consumer interviews indicated that the incidents were…
Odi opened pe07-007 after receiving 4 complaints within a 6 week period alleging incidents of uncommanded brake application in model year (my) 2000 through 2001 mercedes m class sport utility vehicles.information contained in the reports or gathered in subsequent consumer interviews indicated that the incidents were caused by faults in the electronic stability program (esp) system which were repaired by replacing the yaw rate sensors.although the same yaw rate sensor IS used in approximately 800,000 other mercedes m-class, c-class and SLK models, to date there has been only one related complaint to odi in those vehicles. During this investigation mercedes benz provided odi with 327 complaints related to the esp system in the my 2000 through 2001 m class vehicles.seven of the complaints submitted by mercedes alleged incidents of uncommanded brake activation while driving, with two of these involving vehicles identified in the odi complaints.none of the incidents resulted in crash or injury.however, the owners did express safety concerns due to the sudden, unexpected change in vehicle speed and direction. On may 10, 2007 mercedes benz met with nhtsa to provide a technical presentation and conduct a driving demonstration of the esp system performance with simulated electrical faults in the yaw rate sensor.mercedes showed that the esp system IS programmed to diagnose electrical faults and that brake applications resulting from yaw rate sensor electrical faults are very short in duration (0.3 seconds or less) and do not affect vehicle control or stability. Nine of the consumer complaints to odi and mercedes alleged brake activations longer than 0.3 seconds, with several alleging that the incident lasted until the vehicle came to a stop.a complaint vehicle that alleged multiple incidents was evaluated by odi at the vehicle research and test center (vrtc) in east liberty, ohio.vrtc was unable to duplicate the condition.due to the low complaint rate and only one new complaint to odi or mercedes since january 2007, this investigation has been closed.odi will continue to monitor complaints in the subject vehicles and other mercedes products using the same yaw rate sensor and mercedes will provide updates on field experience (complaints, field reports and warranty claims) through the end of 2007.
- Engine crankshaft pulley failure
The office of defects investigation (odi) opened this preliminary evaluation to investigate allegations of engine crankshaft pulley harmonic balancer failure that could result in loss of power-steering assist.odi has received a total of 546 non-duplicative reports that allege engine crankshaft pulley harmonic balancer…
The office of defects investigation (odi) opened this preliminary evaluation to investigate allegations of engine crankshaft pulley harmonic balancer failure that could result in loss of power-steering assist.odi has received a total of 546 non-duplicative reports that allege engine crankshaft pulley harmonic balancer failure on all mercedes-benz vehicles using the subject component.the subject component failures are progressive in nature and only a small percentage of the complaints and warrant claims involved a failure that had progressed far enough to effect power steering performance (6 of 55 odi complaints reference increased steering effort).there have been no crashes or injuries related to the alleged defect.a safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see summary report attached for further detail.
- Power steering hose assembly leakage
The hose clamp used to secure the power steering fluid cooling hose to the steering fluid cooler may not provide sufficient clamping force for the connection.the loss of power steering fluid may result in gradual reduction in power steering assist (i.e., increased steering effort) over time, with potential damage to…
The hose clamp used to secure the power steering fluid cooling hose to the steering fluid cooler may not provide sufficient clamping force for the connection.the loss of power steering fluid may result in gradual reduction in power steering assist (i.e., increased steering effort) over time, with potential damage to the power steering pump. There have also been a few incidents of hose separation from the fitting, that have resulted in more rapid reductions of power steering.testing conducted by mercedes-benz indicates that the leaked fluid IS not likely to be exposed to hot engine components.there are no known allegations that the defect condition has caused a vehicle fire. Mercedes-benz will conduct a voluntary recall campaign for the subject m-class vehicles.mercedes-benz will install a new hose clamp on the power steering hose to the power steering cooler of the subject vehicles.during clamp replacement, the power steering cooling hose will be inspected and replaced as necessary.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11009122Complaint Washer fluid system leaks Cause Various possible causes: 1. Washer fluid reservoir itself. 2. Seal on washer fluid pump/washer fluid reservoir. 3. Washer fluid pump. 3.1. Distributor housing leaks. 3.2. Pump fitting leaks. 3.3. Washer fluid hose cannot be snapped into place on pump fitting. 3.4. Washer fluid hose will not stay on pump fitting, although connector OK. 4. Washer fluid line. 4.1 Connector will not stay on pump fitting because it is broken. 4.2 Sealing ring in connector missing. 4.3 Sealing ring in connector fitted, but deformed and therefore leaks. 4.4 Damage to washer line by animal. 5. Seal on heating washer fluid reservoir/washer fluid reservoir. Remedy Replace defective component parts only. Do not replace any adjacent component parts that are intact. Note: Repair kits for washer line hoses do exist to allow patches for line damage.
- 11008091Complaint During a phone call, the called party has difficulty understanding/cannot understand the driver, or interference/background noises are audible to the called party during a call. It becomes increasingly difficult to understand as the speed rises. Cause A. Seating of the microphones in the headliner. Side edges are covered by the textile cover (see picture "1") B. Assembly of microphones (B25/20 or B25/21) in the headliner. C. Dirt inside the microphone housing Remedy 1. Press finger on rear of microphone (on adhesive tape) 2. Remove microphone cap from the front 3. Eliminate protruding material residues of the microphone cutout at the headliner, e.g. with a soldering iron. The microphone must be seated in the headliner as shown in picture "2". 4. Push microphone from behind until it is firmly pressed into the headliner 5. Maintain pressure and press/clip cap into microphone from the front. Note: The cover cap must be clearly heard and felt to engage. 6. This procedure must be carried out on both microphones (B25/20 and B25/21) Note: It is recommended to replace the cover caps. The non-woven cloth in the cover cap protects the microphone from soiling and must not be removed. NOTE: The information contained in this document is intended for use by trained, professional technicians with the knowledge to properly and safely perform diagnosis and repairs on Mercedes-Benz vehicles, using Mercedes-Benz approved tools and equipment. It informs service technicians about conditions that could occur in certain vehicles and provides information that could assist in proper vehicle diagnosis, service, or repair. It does not indicate that a defect is present in any vehicle referenced in this document nor does it imply warranty coverage. DO NOT assume that a symptom or condition, or a described cause of a symptom or condition, affects any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles, or that a described repair applies to any particular vehicle or groups of vehicles. There can be multiple causes resulting in the same or similar symptoms or conditions described in this document, and trained professional service technicians must use their diagnostic skills to make evaluations on a case-by-case basis. The information contained in this document does not guarantee warranty coverage nor does it extend the vehicles warranty in any way.
- 11007974Complaint Headlamps leaking or fogged Cause The fogging of the headlamp is a natural phenomenon which can occur under certain climatic conditions. In contrast to a leaky headlamp, physical fogging does not result in a technical impairment of the headlamp. A leak test must be performed to determine if physical fogging exists or if the headlamp is leaky. Remedy In advance, observe LI82.10-P-078301 "Headlamps or Front Fog Lamps Leaking or Fogged". 1. Prepare headlamp/check for external damage: For headlamps with a closed system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and check also for correct seating of the Gore-diaphragm/correct latching of the cover caps. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. For headlamps with an open system 1. Check the headlamps for any external damage and seal off the vent then make sure the cover caps are latched correctly into place. 2. If the headlamp exhibits any external damage, replace the headlamp. Note: A headlamp with external damage is not a warranty or goodwill case. 2. Leak test of headlamp with overpressure: Connect test adapter to pressure tester. (Figure 1) Check test adapter for leak tightness. To do so, connect plug and coupling (picture 2) and apply a maximum overpressure of 30 mbar. The pressure must remain constant. If the pressure does not remain constant, use a new adapter. Seal all the outlet openings using sealing compound and the given diaphragm with the plunger (picture 3). (Picture 4) Make allowance for the different headlamp variants here (there are different outlet openings). Check if the headlamp needs to be removed to gain access to the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. Plug the adapter onto the diagnostic socket on the headlamp housing. (Picture 5). Apply a maximum of 30 mbar overpressure to the headlamp housing. Note: If the maximum overpressure of 50 mbar is exceeded the headlamp seal will be damaged. If a pressure drop of less than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is not leaky and the problem is down to natural physical fogging. If a pressure drop of more than 10 mbar is measured within 30 seconds, the headlamp is leaky. Note: The leaky position can be localized with the aid of soap suds. Replace any leaky headlamps. Note: Desiccant packs can be installed for headlamps that are not leaky. See: LI82.10-P-064766 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - open ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304 Fogged headlamp, desiccant pack installed - closed ventilation system
- 11007753Complaint Headlamp or front fog lamp leaky or fogged Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. Headlamps comply with all applicable standards. If a pressure compensation diaphragm is fitted in the housing cover, then the lamp unit is a "closed system". Remedy Headlamp: Remedy 1 Clearing fogged/condensed LED headlamps and LED rear lamps: 1. Drive vehicle into workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) and connect the exhaust extraction. Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the hood or trunk. 4. Switch on the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Clearing fogged/condensed halogen/xenon headlamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4F). Note: Do not perform an engine wash before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine. 3. Open the hood. 4. Switch off the lights. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation, a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (thawing progress). Note: If there is no visible reduction in the formation of condensation, check the headlamp for a defect. (See Remedy 2) It is not physically possible to defog the headlamps completely. Fogging does not impair the operation or the service life of the headlamp. Remedy 2 A Damaged headlamp can be identified as follows: 1. Check the headlamp for external damage and that the cover caps and the diaphragm are correctly seated. 2. Check the electrical connectors of the plugs and pins. 3. Check for leak tightness in accordance with LI82.10-P-078307. The test can only be conducted on headlamps. 4. If the headlamp or the rear lamp has any external damage, replace the component part in accordance with the WIS instructions. Note: External damage to the headlamp/rear lamp or faulty seating of the cover caps does not present a warranty or goodwill case. With headlamps, it is possible to install desiccant packs if the problem occurs repeatedly. Open ventilation system: LI82.10-P-064766. Closed ventilation system LI82.10-P-078304
- 11005294Complaint Rear lamps fogged up/not leaktight. Cause Fogging of the rear lamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. This does not lead to any technical impairment of the rear lamps. Remedy Rear lamp: Remedy 1: Clearing fogged/condensed rear lamps: 1. Drive the vehicle into the workshop (temperature higher than +18 C/+64.4 F) Note: Do not wash the vehicle or subject it to high-pressure cleaning before the defogging test. 2. Switch off the engine and connect battery support via a charger. 3. Open the trunk. 4. Switch on the exterior lighting. 5. Leave the vehicle in this state for 60 minutes. 6. Check for formation of condensation -> a significant reduction in the formation of condensation must be clearly recognizable (defogging progress).
- 10248162Crease formation on genuine leather seat covers in vehicles with low mileage Objects left on the seats for extended periods of time (pressure marks). Objects wedged between the seat backrest and seat cushion (e.g. seat belt buckle). Light initial creases due to vehicle handling. Light creases in the outer covers originating from the production process (missing finish). Heat treatment of the seat covers using heat gun and plastic wedge. Be very careful to not overheat the seat material!
- 10181124Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D or R
- 10181123Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D
- 10167577Since 12/2012 (model 166) and since 06/2013 (model 242) the glass breakage loops are no longer in the side windows and rear window. Suitable interior protection ensures that the interior monitoring function continues to operate correctly.
- 10167564Customer experiences low battery conditions, resulting in jump starts, and eventually requiring battery replacement.
- 10167563The COMAND unit does not start or the COMAND display remains dark. The COMAND unit cannot be operated. Note: The problem disappears after a lengthy idle period (>6h) or after interrupting the power supply (circuit 30).
- 10167553Combination message: "Clean fuel filter" is displayed. The fault code 162500 (water level message - Bosch) or P226997 (water level message - Delphi) or 171600 (filter load - Bosch) is stored in the engine control unit.
- 10166990Thumping noises from front axle when driving over bumps on road.
- 10166976Message in instrument cluster "DISTRONIC PLUSCurrently Unavailable - See Owner's Manual"
- 10135598Engine diagnosis warning lamp lights up in instrument cluster, fault code U145400: "Implausible data were received from the ethanol sensor"
- 10052151Xentry (mercedes): rattling noise coming from the area of the steering column tube system, when driving over rough road and when accelerating or braking, there would be cracking noises. Models 164, 251. No model years listed.
- 10051989Mercedes: see document search button for owner letter. The lower power steering hose and clamp should be replace, under extended warranty, due to power steering leakage from connection to power steering cooler. Models 1998-2003 163.154, (ml320, 430, 55, 500, 350).
- 10044181Xentry: rattling/thumping noises from the area of the steering on rough roads or when driving over road undulations. No model years given. Also included models 168 and 172.
- 10037985Mercedes-benz: the load compartment roller blind has catch bolts loose or broken from improper force when using.
- 10034608Mercedes: the electrically folding 3RD seat row makes noises while folding up and down, or the folding function does not work at all. A warning message about locking the 3RD seat row may also appear in the display.
- 10034152Mercedes: battery symbol and service required (in white). Fault message IS displayed if the charge level IS too low or the park pawl additional battery IS defective. In addition fault code fc 9061 and/or fc 9062 IS stored in the front sam.
- 10033607Mercedes benz: check for installation of spacer between brake and fuel line, install if necessary. The spacer between the brake line and fuel line may not have been installed. Check for presence of a spacer, and if missing, install the spacer. Check the brake line for chafe marks from the fuel line and replace the brake line if necessary. Model 163.
- 10033074Xentry: outside door handle no longer returns to end position. Due to a bent pin in the dynamic balancer, the support spring of the bearing bracket can slide out of place or become unhooked. Models 164, 251, 166, 204, 212. No model years listed. Updated 2/1/12. Updated 10/3/12. Updated 10/21/13.
- 10033070Xentry (mercedes): engine warning lamp IS currently on or was on and a delay fault of the camshaft adjust to current or stored in the engine control unit. Models 171, 203, 209, 211, 219, 221, 216, 230, 164, 251, and 403. No model years listed.
- 10032727Mercedes: following fault codes are entered in the control unit and displayed-fc5320 drain valve:open circuit or insufficient valve current in models series 211, 219; fc5260 drain valve open circuit or insufficient valve current in model 221; fc5250 drain open circuit or insufficient valve current in model series 251, 164. Defective connecting cables to drain valve at airmatic compressor. This results in the setting of the fault codes. No model years listed.
- 10032725Mercedes: electronic stability program (esp), stability control (sr). References revised and reference to af deleted/supersedes dtb tb 42.45/42. Esp lamp on. Contact fault at connection for esp control unit MK25 (N47). No model years listed.
- 10032707Mercedes: ensuring unobstructed movement for the fuel level sensor. When installing the left or right fuel level sensor, it IS essential for it to have unrestricted, unobstructed movement.
- 10029105Mercedes benz: fuel loss at pressure regulator valve and/or poor engine running characteristics (shakes, knocks, surges, changes to lip home mode, poor output, poor fuel economy, combustion noise, vehicle stalls). May be caused by malfunction at pressure regulator valve (prv) due to improper installation.
- 10028686Mercedes: air matic visit workshop displayed within instrument cluster. Models 164, 211, 219, 221 and 251. Included 4matic, AMG (compressor) AMG, bluetec and wagon. Model years unknown. Updated 9/18/09.
- 10028664Mercedes: a nonfunctional blower motor (blower motor runs continuously) or water drops in front passenger footwell after engine wash. Caused by an insufficient sealing of air/water box when water IS used when engine compartment IS cleaned near right side of firewall.
- 10026201Mercedes benz: work on pressure regulator valve (as of CD13, 1600 bar system). Fuel loss at the pressure regulator valve and/or poor engine running characteristics (shakes, knocks, surges, changes to limp home mode, poor output, poor fuel economy, combustion noise).
- 10025663Slow acceleration with gas pedal hesitation. Models 164.122/8ss (ML 320 and gl320); 211.022 (E320); 251.122 (4320). Years unknown.
- 10025648Rattling/thumping noise on rough roads and/or knocking noise when moving steering in both directions on all model 164 and 251 vehicles. Model years unknown.
- 10025647Water entry into vehicle interior for all model 164 vehicles.
- 10022893Check engine light on / fault codes fc1200 / fc1208 stored in me-sfi control unit. Mercedes-benz model C230, C280, C350, slk280, slk350, clk350, clk550, E350, E550, cls550, S600, and sl550. Equipped with M272 engine or M273 engine. Updated 8/28/08.
- 10020460Play in the rack and pinion steering system. Models 203, 209, 210, 211, 215, 220, 230. Mercedes benz. Updated 5/13/09.
- 10019967Flow noises from area of power steering pump and/or foaming of power steering oil in reservoir. On mercedes benz ML and r class models.
Every Mercedes Benz ML320 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.