2001 Mercedes Benz ML430
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Mercedes Benz › ML430 › 2001
These records cover every 2001 Mercedes Benz ML430. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
44 complaints3 involved a crash2 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Service brakes · Unknown or other
Was driving 50 miles per hour when the car slammed on the brakes, nearly getting me rear ended. The throttle would not respond until the car was doing maybe5 miles per hour - on an interstate! The BAS/ESP light was on solid. I got onto an off ramp, called the dealer, was told it could be several…
Was driving 50 miles per hour when the car slammed on the brakes, nearly getting me rear ended. The throttle would not respond until the car was doing maybe5 miles per hour - on an interstate! The BAS/ESP light was on solid. I got onto an off ramp, called the dealer, was told it could be several causes, drove home carefully, and took it to the dealer. The dealer found nothing. Several times since, the car was being driven at speeds in the 20-30 miles per hour range, and the system would slam on the brakes and pull hard to the left. I could smell the brake dust in the car. Other times, it will ALMOST engage (ESP light flashes as well) then backs off.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes · Unknown or other
Re: 2001 mb ml430 electronic braking sensor the front passenger brake initially locked up at low speed upon acceleration. after stopping and turning the vehicle off and back on the system was back to normal. then one day I was traveling at near 70 mph in the passing lane of an…
Re: 2001 mb ml430 electronic braking sensor the front passenger brake initially locked up at low speed upon acceleration. after stopping and turning the vehicle off and back on the system was back to normal. then one day I was traveling at near 70 mph in the passing lane of an interstate highway when the front driver brake locked up and brake tire smoke billowed from my vehicle which caused traffic behind me to swerve and brake behind and on the side of me. I proceeded to pull off onto the shoulder of the highway and turned my vehicle off and back on, after which my vehicle operated normally. I proceeded to do an online search and learned that this was a common sort of problem for this model.. Particularly at low speeds. in my case it happened at low speeds and then the one time at 70 mph. I learned that the yaw sensor which IS part of the ABS system was commonly reported as the likely cause of the problem.. I proceeded to disconnect the yaw sensor and have had no further problems. I am fortunate that it was not a rainy day, otherwise the results may have been catastrophic with so many vehicles behind me and traveling at such a high speed. theyaw sensor mb part # IS a 002 542 94 18 Q01 systron donner inertia division USA
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
Twice now while driving and going over minor bumps (dots on the road to warn of crosswalks and a driveway entrance curb) the bas/esp and hazard lights have come on and the car has automatically applied violent breaking that took control of the direction the car was heading. This breaking continued…
Twice now while driving and going over minor bumps (dots on the road to warn of crosswalks and a driveway entrance curb) the bas/esp and hazard lights have come on and the car has automatically applied violent breaking that took control of the direction the car was heading. This breaking continued until the vehicle came to a complete stop. Both times the car was going less than 20 mph, but control of the car was limited during the event. At freeway speeds, it would be very likely to cause an accident. Bas/esp light turns off after the car IS turned off.
- Service brakes
Vehicle's front wheel brakes by itself while driving and the eps warning light comes on afterwards. Extremely dangerous in highway driving. Had the brakes checked, but nothing wrong. Online complaints suggests a failure in yaw rate sensor.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
I was driving on the highway, going about 60 mph, and the car suddenly started applying the brakes on its own. nearly got me into an accident. I was able to get over to the shoulder luckily. I had my toddler in the car and it was a very scary thing. When the brakes started engaging by itself, a…
I was driving on the highway, going about 60 mph, and the car suddenly started applying the brakes on its own. nearly got me into an accident. I was able to get over to the shoulder luckily. I had my toddler in the car and it was a very scary thing. When the brakes started engaging by itself, a yellow triangle warning light displayed on the dash followed by the bas/esp light after the vehicle came to a complete stop. I have seen others that have had this very same issue and seems to be the yaw rate sensor. I am shocked this hasn't been recalled with all the issues I've read on this. I barely just bought the car and it's already not drivable. Very huge safety issue.
- Electrical system
The all activity module (aam) does not function properly to which neither side mirrors can be adjusted because the windows no go up and down or longer operate. Then the door locks no longer functions and various other components rely solely off of this middle instrument cluster. When I took it to the dealer they said there IS a malfunction in the aam controls which are the causing affect of this issue.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that the fobik utilized and the locks began to lock and unlock several times until it eventually stopped and unlocked. The contact also stated that the door lock on the drivers side door, locked and unlock several times when the…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that the fobik utilized and the locks began to lock and unlock several times until it eventually stopped and unlocked. The contact also stated that the door lock on the drivers side door, locked and unlock several times when the fobik was utilized to lock the door. The contact stated that the vehicle had to be locked manually. The failure recurred each time the fobik or door lock was depressed. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed that the all activity module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 01v061000 (electrical system). the approximate failure mileage was 109,000.
- Electrical system · Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that the service engine and the bas esp warning lights flickered. The contact mentioned that when the warning lights illuminated, the brakes engaged and there was an abnormal noise. In addition, the electric power door lock…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that the service engine and the bas esp warning lights flickered. The contact mentioned that when the warning lights illuminated, the brakes engaged and there was an abnormal noise. In addition, the electric power door lock function was making an abnormal noise. The contact discovered that the a/c line fractured and the windshield wipers plastic piece fractured. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was included in nhtsa campaign number: 11v208000 (vehicle speed control). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 186,675. updated 11/23/15*lj the consumer fixed the vehicle at his/her expense. Updated 01/29/16.*jb
- Fuel system, gasoline · Service brakes, hydraulic › Power assist › Hydraulic › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
2001 mercedes benz ML 430. consumer writes in regards to vehicle brake pedal issues. *smd the consumer stated the brake pedal lost pressure due to the fuel tube coming in contact with the brake line. The brake line was leaking fluid.*jb
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
I was driving on interstate 285 east at a speed of 70mph suddenly the the bas/esp warning light came on and my car automatically applied brakes and the car couldn't run. So I turned of the engine and started the car again and everything went back to normal except the cruise control stopped working…
I was driving on interstate 285 east at a speed of 70mph suddenly the the bas/esp warning light came on and my car automatically applied brakes and the car couldn't run. So I turned of the engine and started the car again and everything went back to normal except the cruise control stopped working and bas/esp waring lights are still on but the car IS running. How do I fix the cruise control and the bas/esp warning lights?
- Electrical system
There IS an active recall for the all activity module on 2001 m class vehicles. There IS an extensive amount of data that owners from the release of the mercedes benz ml430 have had problems identical to those in the active recall. When I call mercedes, they say my car IS not impacted. Based on the…
There IS an active recall for the all activity module on 2001 m class vehicles. There IS an extensive amount of data that owners from the release of the mercedes benz ml430 have had problems identical to those in the active recall. When I call mercedes, they say my car IS not impacted. Based on the number of issues and history on 2001 m class all activity modules, I feel this recall should extend to all 2001 m class cars.
- Service brakes
I was driving at about 35 mph and all of a sudden I heard screeching sound from my tires and the orange triangle warning light in my dash light up. I pulled over and shut off the engine. I notices tire skid marks from on the passenger side. After a few minutes I started and drove and the car drove…
I was driving at about 35 mph and all of a sudden I heard screeching sound from my tires and the orange triangle warning light in my dash light up. I pulled over and shut off the engine. I notices tire skid marks from on the passenger side. After a few minutes I started and drove and the car drove normal. This same thing happened to my wife also. Basically it IS like applying the brakes hard while driving but with out even touching the brake. *tr
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes-benz ml430. The contact stated the ABS hydraulic unit system malfunctioned. The contact stated that while driving 30 mph, the ABS warning light illuminated as the braking system independently actived. The contact had to pull over to the side of the road and shut…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes-benz ml430. The contact stated the ABS hydraulic unit system malfunctioned. The contact stated that while driving 30 mph, the ABS warning light illuminated as the braking system independently actived. The contact had to pull over to the side of the road and shut the vehicle off. The contact restarted the vehicle and the braking system was working normal. The contact called the dealer regarding the ABS system. The dealer stated the ABS hydraulic unit needed to be replaced. The failure mileage was 175,000. The vin was not available.
- Service brakes
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that when driving from 50 to 80 mph, the vehicle brakes would sporadically engage independently and without warning. there were several warning lights illuminated after the failure occurred. The vehicle as taken to a dealer where…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that when driving from 50 to 80 mph, the vehicle brakes would sporadically engage independently and without warning. there were several warning lights illuminated after the failure occurred. The vehicle as taken to a dealer where a diagnostic was performed; however, the cause of the failure was undetermined based on the failure codes provided by the diagnostic. The failure later recurred while the contact was driving 50 mph. As a result, another vehicle crashed into the rear of the contact's vehicle. There were no injuries. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 99,000 and the current mileage was 102,000. the vin was not available.
- Electronic stability control › Automatic (asc) · Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that while driving 70 mph, the vehicle shook violently and made a loud sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The technician diagnosed that the switch brake light and the air mass sensor were defective and needed to be…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that while driving 70 mph, the vehicle shook violently and made a loud sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The technician diagnosed that the switch brake light and the air mass sensor were defective and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to a different dealer for a second opinion where the technician stated that the yaw rate electrical sensor failed and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was 103,249 and the current mileage was 103,976. ..Updated 04/24/13 *bf the consumer stated several components were replaced on the vehicle. However, none of them have rectified the problem. the consumer referenced nhtsa action # pe07007. Updated 06/13/13
- Engine and engine cooling · Power train
I was driving home came to a curve in the road about 15 mph the car started to jerk as if the brakes were being engaged, I pulled over turned the car off turned it back on the esp-bas light came on. Ever since then the car IS unpredictable it happens everyday but when it wants to. *tr
- Power train · Steering
In approximately august 2010, I had an esp light on. Took it to the dealership (3 hours away) and they replaced the steering column. I picked up the car and drove approx 20 mins when I noticed the steering wheel was not aligned. Called the dealership and had to bring it back in because they forgot…
In approximately august 2010, I had an esp light on. Took it to the dealership (3 hours away) and they replaced the steering column. I picked up the car and drove approx 20 mins when I noticed the steering wheel was not aligned. Called the dealership and had to bring it back in because they forgot to align the wheels. Started off on my drive back home, stopped for gas and on the way out the driveway (10 mph), I heard a grinding/squeaking noise. Got my car home and found that it was leaking power steering fluid from a clamp. I kept ps fluid in the car. Took the car back to the dealership in approx. November and they told me that I needed to have a new ps pump and rack/pinions resealed, the cost of approx $1800.00, of which I cannot afford. I have been driving the car, just keeping ps fluid in it, but it leaks out. I have no power steering. I have had the recall clamp replace twice, once in 2003 and then in 2007. *tr
- Service brakes
While driving vehicle a 45 mph at 5PM in traffic, vehicle automatically started engaging brakes in a jerking motion, repeatedly, subsequently coming to a complete stop. smoke was coming from tire area. this has happened repeatedly and vehicle was being driven by my 16 year old. fortunately, this…
While driving vehicle a 45 mph at 5PM in traffic, vehicle automatically started engaging brakes in a jerking motion, repeatedly, subsequently coming to a complete stop. smoke was coming from tire area. this has happened repeatedly and vehicle was being driven by my 16 year old. fortunately, this has not caused an accident. after much research, I have found this has happened to several other people over a period of time in mercedes benz's. this IS a serious safety concern. *js
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that the all activity module II, which operates all electrical components on the vehicle, failed. the contact referenced nhtsa campaign ID number: 01v061000 (electrical system: wiring) which the dealer and the manufacturer…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. The contact stated that the all activity module II, which operates all electrical components on the vehicle, failed. the contact referenced nhtsa campaign ID number: 01v061000 (electrical system: wiring) which the dealer and the manufacturer informed the contact that his vin was not included. They offered no further assistance. The contact stated that he would repair the vehicle himself. The failure mileage was 82,000.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. While driving approximately 20-25 mph, the ABS and traction warning lights illuminated. The contact was depressing the accelerator pedal when the brakes independently engaged and the vehicle came to a complete stop unexpectedly. The contact…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 mercedes benz ml430. While driving approximately 20-25 mph, the ABS and traction warning lights illuminated. The contact was depressing the accelerator pedal when the brakes independently engaged and the vehicle came to a complete stop unexpectedly. The contact accelerated and the failure recurred with the bas and esp warning lights illuminated. The vehicle then drove as normal. The vehicle was inspected by a local mechanic who advised that the yaw rate sensor would need replacing. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 136,190 and the current mileage was 136,590.
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes, hydraulic · Vehicle speed control
Safety concern - yesterday while traveling at 65mph locked on cruise control, the cruise control failed to disengage when the brake pedal was pressed. instead, upon releasing the brake pedal, the vehicle began accelerating back to 65mph and almost caused me to ran into the truck in front of me. I…
Safety concern - yesterday while traveling at 65mph locked on cruise control, the cruise control failed to disengage when the brake pedal was pressed. instead, upon releasing the brake pedal, the vehicle began accelerating back to 65mph and almost caused me to ran into the truck in front of me. I slammed on the brakes to bring the car to a stop to avoid rear ending the car in front of me, at which time the bas/esp light came on. again, the cruise failed to disengage since I could feel the car dragging while the brake pedal was pushed down. I manually turned off the cruise, and the bas/esp light remained on. later, with the esp/bas light on, I reengage the cruise to see if it would reset, but again it failed to disengage when the brake pedal was pressed, and I had to manually turn off the cruise. when I parked the vehicle and turned the engine off, let it sit for about 20 min, and then restarted, bas/esp stayed on and gear shift locked up in park. *Tr
- Exterior lighting · Service brakes, hydraulic
I purchased a mercedes ML 430 2001 in may 2001. since then a part called a stop light switch has gone out 6 times. the following are dates and mileage on vehicle: 5/10/05 40,561 miles, 9/28/06 47,767 miles, 8/14/07 51,801 miles, 4/10/08 55,151 miles, 3/17/09 61,105 miles, and 1/28/10 65,465…
I purchased a mercedes ML 430 2001 in may 2001. since then a part called a stop light switch has gone out 6 times. the following are dates and mileage on vehicle: 5/10/05 40,561 miles, 9/28/06 47,767 miles, 8/14/07 51,801 miles, 4/10/08 55,151 miles, 3/17/09 61,105 miles, and 1/28/10 65,465 miles. On august 14, 2007 with this stop light switch going out I could not disengage the vehicle out of cruise control. by the grace of god I was able to pump the brakes until it disengaged before almost running into a vehicle in front of me at 60 mph. this part IS defective and will one day kill or seriously injure people. *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Whenever it rains or it IS the least bit wet, the brakes slip when depressed and all three yellow lights on the left side of the dash light up - i.e., ABS, esp and I can't recall the other one. Usually the lights go off by themselves after a few miles of driving or if the car IS turned off. The…
Whenever it rains or it IS the least bit wet, the brakes slip when depressed and all three yellow lights on the left side of the dash light up - i.e., ABS, esp and I can't recall the other one. Usually the lights go off by themselves after a few miles of driving or if the car IS turned off. The last time this happened, I drove straight to the mechanic. The mechanic said that the fault codes indicated that the pressure was high in the ABS. I was advised that the codes could be reset but the brakes were functioning properly. In fact, they were not functioning properly because they slipped instead of stopped when I applied brake pressure when the street was wet. The brakes have slipped on multiple occasions when stopping on wet surfaces though they do stop the car. *Tr
- Vehicle speed control › Cruise control
Tl*the contact owns a 2001 ml430 mercedes which was purchased brand new in 2000. While traveling at speeds of 65 mph and utilizing the cruise control she tapped on the brake pedal to disengage the cruise control and it remained engaged. She continued to apply extreme pressure to the brake pedal in…
Tl*the contact owns a 2001 ml430 mercedes which was purchased brand new in 2000. While traveling at speeds of 65 mph and utilizing the cruise control she tapped on the brake pedal to disengage the cruise control and it remained engaged. She continued to apply extreme pressure to the brake pedal in an attempt to stop the vehicle, to no avail. She was forced the shift gears into neutral until she coasted and stopped. She was able to drive the vehicle to the dealer who stated that a component failed to communicate with the pedal and disengage the cruise control. The contact IS uncertain what the component was. Repairs were made by her local dealer. The failure mileage was 127,000 and the current mileage was 130,000.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
After driving 2001 ml430 for approx. 30 min. There IS uncommanded brake application and it will bring you to a complete stop. It will not take gas and it IS hard to control vehicle because you can feel brake being applied to left and right wheels pulling you left and right at this time. Very…
After driving 2001 ml430 for approx. 30 min. There IS uncommanded brake application and it will bring you to a complete stop. It will not take gas and it IS hard to control vehicle because you can feel brake being applied to left and right wheels pulling you left and right at this time. Very dangerous. This happens every day the vehicle IS driven about 30 min. In to drive time. As this IS happening the bas/esp light comes on during braking and remains on. After you have come to complete stop and start to drive again over 10 miles per hour brakes are applied again and it stops you. Mercedes service dept has never heard of this problem. There are several complaints of this on different web sites and customers say they have spent alot af time and money on different parts with mercedes service dept. And vehicle still has same problem. I am not feeling confident in this problem being properly diagnosed and the vehicle has become hazardous. *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
- Brake line chafe
Analysis of complaints to odi and mercedes and warranty claim data submitted by mercedes indicates that the alleged defect has occurred at a low rate (36.5 complaints per 100,000 vehicles and 0.29 percent warranty claim rate), with no discernable defect trend indicating that the rate of chafing related brake line…
Analysis of complaints to odi and mercedes and warranty claim data submitted by mercedes indicates that the alleged defect has occurred at a low rate (36.5 complaints per 100,000 vehicles and 0.29 percent warranty claim rate), with no discernable defect trend indicating that the rate of chafing related brake line failures IS increasing.there have been no new complaints since january 2009.when the analysis IS limited to incidents of brake line leakage that resulted in allegations of reduced brake effectiveness, the rate drops even further (22.3 complaints per 100,000 vehicles and 0.04 percent warranty claim rate). Mercedes provided data showing that in the rare instances when chafing did progress to brake line leakage the driver would be immediately alerted to a problem by illumination of the bright yellow esp/bas warning lamp and changes in brake pedal feel.continued operation with a leaking brake line would result in illumination of the bright red brake warning lamp and an audible chime due to low master cylinder reservoir level. Continued operation with the brake warning lamp illuminated would ultimately drain the reservoir for the affected circuit, resulting in loss of the circuit and an approximately 80% increase in stopping distances. Surveys conducted by odi and vrtc indicate that routing anomalies may be more common than the complaint and warranty data suggest for the subject line bundle, with line contact or other routing anomaly noted in 13 of 51 vehicles surveyed by odi and vrtc (25.5%).while evidence of contact between the fuel line and subject brake in a particular vehicle IS not necessarily predictive of eventual line failure/leakage, significant chafing wear was noted in two survey vehicles (3.9%).TO address concerns with line routing and ensure that lines with evident chafing do not progress to a leak condition, mercedes will conduct an owner notification program instructing owners to bring the vehicles to a dealer for a free inspection and repair.lines that do not have a spacer (rubber grommet or omega-clip) between the subject fuel and brake lines will have an omega-clip spacer installed to ensure adequate clearance between the lines.brake lines with chafe marks will be replaced. Accordingly, this investigation has been closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist. The agency will continue to monitor complaints and other information relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles and take further action in the future if warranted. For additional information regarding this engineering analysis refer to the ea08-009 closing report.
- 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.
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).
- 10166990Thumping noises from front axle when driving over bumps on road.
- 10166976Message in instrument cluster "DISTRONIC PLUSCurrently Unavailable - See Owner's Manual"
- 10166975This Customer 1 Action has been initiated because certain mbrace subscribers were recently contacted by mbrace informing them that they need to have an i-button call performed to ensure their mbrace device has registered with the Verizon Telematics systems. If the i-button call failed or if the customer was unable to perform the i-button call, the mbrace agent instructed the customer to make an appointment with their dealer to have the issue corrected and/or i-button call performed. The vehicles impacted range from model year 2002 to 2014.
- 10135598Engine diagnosis warning lamp lights up in instrument cluster, fault code U145400: "Implausible data were received from the ethanol sensor"
- 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).
- 10036933Xentry (mercedes benz): replacing exterior light bulbs. Exterior lights. Li did not match dtb from which it was created. (Main remedy for repair was missing.)
- 10034306Mercedes: airbag durability and reliability. Air bag srs control module (N2/2) does not have a set shelf life and will normally be reliable for the life of a vehicle. With 164, 216 221, 251 and newer, the airbag control unit can be reset five times. With modes 202, 210 and newer, the airbag control unit can be reset three times. Earlier models would have to have their airbag control unit and triggered restrain components changed only after an accident. No models or model years listed.
- 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.
- 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.
- 627184Subject regarding buzzing noise from the fuel filter. (Up to and including years listed)
- 621571Some vehicles may exhibit 1-2 second delay upon release of the brake pedal and / or application of the accelerator pedal until the actuator moves to the new accelerator pedal input position. This IS a design characteristic incorporated in the engine management system as a safety feature. This IS not subject to modification in the field.
Every Mercedes Benz ML430 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.