2008 Mercedes Benz ML550
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Mercedes Benz › ML550 › 2008
These records cover every 2008 Mercedes Benz ML550. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2008 Mercedes Benz ML550. Newest first.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML, GL, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. Moisture may accumulate and cause corrosion in the brake booster housing unit, which can result in reduced brake performance or brake failure.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Reduced brake performance or brake failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 24, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MMUSA's number for this recall is 2024050001/2. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-315.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML-Class, GL-Class, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. Moisture may accumulate and cause corrosion in the brake booster housing unit, which can result in reduced brake performance or brake failure.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Reduced brake performance or brake failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers for this recall are 2022050014, 2022050015 2022090006, & 2022090007.
Owner complaints
18 complaints1 involved a crash1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine
Engine died and won't run. Known issue with MB balance shaft that they refuse to repair or help with the cost of a $8k job. Highly disappointed.
- Unknown or other
unknown
- Service brakes, hydraulic
The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML550. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall…
The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML550. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Tires
Cooper Tire Evolution 245/65R17 - Tire Tread Separation - the entire tread out layer came off of the driver side front tire while driving on the freeway - the tire was not deflated - the entire tread hit the driver side mirror breaking it completely off - hitting driver window and deploying all…
Cooper Tire Evolution 245/65R17 - Tire Tread Separation - the entire tread out layer came off of the driver side front tire while driving on the freeway - the tire was not deflated - the entire tread hit the driver side mirror breaking it completely off - hitting driver window and deploying all airbags on driver side of the vehicle. The tire itself still was fully aired and full circle entire outer layer of tread was off of the tire. Caused vehicle damage - Personal Injury
- Service brakes, hydraulic
The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML550. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had…
The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML550. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Seat belts
back sit the seat belt locks in place and it does not lose its locked mechanics. I have found that several people are having the same problem. here is a link to a website Video describing the problem. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwZmUSWNOlk. I have found the problem is a small baring locking…
back sit the seat belt locks in place and it does not lose its locked mechanics. I have found that several people are having the same problem. here is a link to a website Video describing the problem. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwZmUSWNOlk. I have found the problem is a small baring locking the belt. Please let me know if you need more info. As of now we are down to a 2 back passenger car or 3 but one without a belt - no good. I do think this qualifies as a safety issue - What if it had locked and harm one of my kids? I had lower the seat and I was not able to pull it up until I disabled the mechanics and neutralized the belt - that should not be the case - specially since many others are having the same problem. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
safety defect rear sam acting up after rain . no lights no fuel gauge no remote no turn signal while driving almost had an accident
- Electrical system · Unknown or other
My NHTSA #11431874 I have made a complaint about my back computer was damage by water where the is installed on the right side of my car now I found out that the reason my chairs are not moving is because the electrical is also damage this is so unfair the problem is not my car but the ways and place they installed the computer??
- Back over prevention › Rearview system braking · Electrical system
The back computer seat on the top of the was supposed to be draining out of the car instead the water retrain in the cause damage to my the computer I complained about it but never got a solution until the water damage the and saw for the first time where was the water on back of my car this was careless why put computer on the top of water that caused the damage and problem for my car?
- Fuel/propulsion system
smells badly for gas in cabin and outside
- Electrical system
This vehicle has major problem with rear sam and seat no power. Ever since this ML was made 10 car I had was bought sam and no power to the seat front
- Suspension
Since I purchased the car, the suspension has been a major issue. When the suspension IS faulty, sometimes the car IS stuck down- not allowing the car to rise so whenever I drive through a speed bump, my car scrumps/scratches the bump. I have to fix it twice or more every year and it IS quite frustrating. I would appreciate investigation into this as this IS causing financial strain on me and my family. *tr
- Air bags · Steering
My power steering pin broke and there was a recall on this same exact thing and my vehicle was not covered
- Steering
Nhtsa 08v682000 defect in power steering oil pressure driving pin. The nhtsa should reevaluate accepting mercedes benz underestimating of the amount of vehicles that were effected by this recall. there are still vehicles that are loosing power steering pressure due to the driving pin that IS used…
Nhtsa 08v682000 defect in power steering oil pressure driving pin. The nhtsa should reevaluate accepting mercedes benz underestimating of the amount of vehicles that were effected by this recall. there are still vehicles that are loosing power steering pressure due to the driving pin that IS used to control power steering oil pressure being defective and this IS a major safety issue that could result in deaths and accidents. The pin breaks during normal vehicle turning so the steering assist will no longer operate effectively it also causes other damage to the vehicle as a result of the hard steering defect as a result of the pin breaking. When driving cold the vehicle has power steering available, when warm vehicle looses power steering, fluid IS circulating in power steering pump and pressure checks fine. As a result due to hard steering leaks develop due to power steering pressures variances in the steering system over time a fire and other potential problems can arise. There IS also a popping sound felt in the steering wheel not due to tie rods.
- Air bags
Takata recall. I had an auto collision in 2008, where vehicle front had to be replaced. My insurance company (aaa) paid $40,000.00 for repairs. The airbags didn't activate. Maybe I should thank the lord, it didn't activate.
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2008 mercedes benz ml550. While driving approximately 5 mph, the steering wheel became difficult to turn and force was applied. The failure recurred whenever the vehicle was in operation. The vehicle was diagnosed however, not repaired. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 08v682000 (steering). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.
- Seat belts
Left and right rear seat belts will not retract.. Once pulled out, they do not retract.. Looking on mercedes forums, this seems like a very common safety problem that mercedes fails to address.. *tr
- Electrical system · Engine and engine cooling · Steering
On two occasion while the vehicle was in traffic/operationthe engine stalled on turning the car. Engine had to be restarted in order to unblock the steering wheel and restart the engine. This IS a certified vehicle and mercedes benz claimed the incident -a did never happen and b-could not be duplicated.
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.
- 11008323Complaint Headlamps fogged or droplets forming. Cause Due to its outlet openings, the headlamp is an "open system". This means that acidic gases, moisture, dirt and exhaust gases can penetrate into the headlamp. This can lead to the formation of condensation on the lens of the headlamp. The headlamps comply with all applicable US standards and regulations. Remedy Check housing cover of lamp unit for natural fogging or condensation as per LI82.10-P-078301. If a reduction in the degree of fogging is visible, the desiccant packs can be used once the condensation has completely evaporated. Note: Order service covers and desiccant packs based on the validity description. 1. Remove headlamps. 2. Remove all grommets from outlet openings. 3. Seal vent openings with sealing profile. Important: All openings must be sealed carefully for the pressure compensation diaphragm to work properly! 4. Remove existing service cover. 5. Place desiccant packs into the new service covers and bolt down (Picture_01). 6. Glue the new diaphragm onto the intended surface at the service cover (Picture_02). Note: The bonding surface must be clean and dry. 7. Attach service cover with desiccant pack at headlamp. 8. Install headlamp. To ensure that the desiccant pack (absorption) acts effectively, the headlamp has to be air-sealed. Observe or check the following points for this: 1. Seals at the central connector must all be present and correctly fitted (Picture_03). 2. The new transparent diaphragm must be correctly bonded (Picture_04). 3. Check headlamp housing for any external 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!
- 10235978Recall Campaign announcement for Takata driver airbags.
- 10205249No cooling output, fault code 9006 stored in air conditioning control unit.
- 10205233Mobile phone cotacts are not transferred completely.
- 10205225Headlamps fogged.
- 10186145Creaking noise from fixed glass section of panoramic roof in area of rear passenger compartment grab handles
- 10186144Armrest In Center Console (Front) Only Opens On One Side Or Not At All - Model Series 167
- 10177571Lamp unit fogged or droplets forming. Due to the vent openings, the lamp unit is an "open system". This means that acidic gases, moisture, dirt and exhaust gases can penetrate it. This can result in deposits on the diffuser and lens. Check housing cover of lamp unit for natural fogging or dew as per GI82.10-P-009047. . 1. If a reduction in the degree of fogging is visible, the desiccant packs can be used once the condensation has completely evaporated. 1.1. Order the required service covers by referring to the variant overview. 1.2. Remove lamp unit 1.3. Remove all grommets from vent openings. 1.4. Seal vent openings with sealing profile. Important: All openings must be sealed carefully for the pressure compensation membrane to work properly! 1.5. Remove existing service cover 1.6. Place desiccant packs in new service covers and bolt down 1.7. Stick new diaphragm onto specified surface on service cover [picture of service cover] Note: The bonding surface must be clean and dry. 06
- 10176670To enhance the satisfaction of our customers, avoid further costs of litigation and return focus to its core businesses, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) has entered into a settlement regarding claims relating to alleged mold and mildew type odors originating from the HVAC system in certain Mercedes-Benz vehicles. As part of the settlement, MBUSA has agreed to offer sliding-scale warranty coverage for certain vehicles diagnosed as having mold or mildew type odors originating from the HVAC system?although that coverage will not take effect until the settlement is judicially approved and other events occur; likely not until December 7, 2020 at the earliest (see below). If the settlement becomes effective, coverage will include cleaning of the evaporator and replacement of the HVAC filters
- 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.
- 10167572If it is necessary to replace an HV battery, the return will only be accepted with the filled-out ?Analysis Sheet for Transportability of High-Voltage Batteries Form? accompanied by: , the removed part, the quick test printout, the BMS control unit log printout, the repair documentation and with all required documentation listed in Section E of the Form.
- 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).
- 10167561Xenon burner inoperative or flickers
- 10167040This Service Campaign has been initiated because Daimler AG (DAG), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that the mbrace software does not correspond to current production configuration. An authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer will update the mbrace control module software at the next workshop visit.
- 10167007Engine diagnosis warning lamp active. Fault code 20BE1B and/or 20BD1B (The heating element of the AdBlue tank has a malfunction) is logged in the Blue-Tec control unit.
- 10167006Engine diagnosis warning lamp active. Fault code 20BE1B and/or 20BD1B (The heating element of the AdBlue tank has a malfunction) is logged in the Blue-Tec control unit.
- 10167002Creaking noise when making vertical or longitudinal adjustment to electrical steering column
- 10166990Thumping noises from front axle when driving over bumps on road.
- 10166978Engine diagnosis warning lamp lights up - Fault code entry (FC) 14A600 or 14A700
- 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.
- 10166099Pneumatic comfort systems with insufficient performance, entirely inoperative or leaky.
- 10166088Noises from the mounting of the rear weight sensing system (WSS) sensors
- 10165850Side windows may make noises when closing and opening, or reverse direction when closing.
- 10164811Throttle lift-off clunking noises at drive shafts of rear axle
- 10158329Oil in engine wiring harness
- 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.
- 10041066Mercedes benz: the turn signal light on the mirror fogs up due to temperature differences.
- 10038225Mercedes-benz: diagnostic procedures for the driver authorization system.
- 10037985Mercedes-benz: the load compartment roller blind has catch bolts loose or broken from improper force when using.
- 10037408Mercedes-benz: shock absorber procedure.
- 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.
Every Mercedes Benz ML550 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.