2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
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110
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
STEERING
25 complaints
The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, the steering wheel failed to respond as designed. The contact drove the vehicle safely off the road. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was made aware of a power steering rack leak. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred several times. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V682000 (Steering). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 38,000.
Mar 29, 2022
STEERING WHEEL GET HARD THEN SOFT ON TURN CAUSING LOSE OF CONTROL I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC AND SAID ITS THE RACK & PINION I LOOK ONLINE FOR RECALL THIER IS ONE FOR STEERING RACK SO I CALL THE DEALER THEY SAID MINE IS NOT
Jan 10, 2019
MILEAGE 80K AND A STEERING RACK NEEDS TO BE REPLACED DUE TO A BROKEN PIN. I SEE A RECALL 2008120011 AND FOLLOWING THE DOCUMENTATION THIS VIN QUALIFIES FOR IT BUT THE MB DEALER IS SAYING THAT THERE IS NO OPEN RECALL FOR THIS CAR.
Aug 23, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE LEAKED STEERING FLUID, WHICH MADE THE STEERING WHEEL DIFFICULT TO TURN WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH OR ABOVE. THE CONTACT ALSO HEARD A THUMPING NOISE WHEN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL AND APPROACHING A STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE RACK AND PINION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC CONTACTED AN UNKNOWN DEALER WHO STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (MERCEDES-BENZ OF JACKSONVILLE, 10231 ATLANTIC BLVD, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32225), BUT NO REPAIRS OR DIAGNOSTIC TESTS WERE PERFORMED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
Jun 07, 2018
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.
Feb 08, 2017
+ 20 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 complaints
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
Mar 13, 2021
BRAKE LIGHT WENT OUT. TWO DAYS LATER THE BATTERY CAUSED A FIRE INSIDE OF VEHICLE WHILE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY. KEYS WERE NOT IN THE IGNITION AT THE TIME
Jun 04, 2018
MY 2008 IS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AS THIS 2009. MERCEDES BENZ IS RECALLING 16,130 MY 2009 M-CLASS W164 PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE OPTIONAL POWER LIFT GATE. AS A RESULT OF A FAULTY SEAL AROUND THE REAR TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY, WATER MAY ENTER THE REAR COMPARTMENT CONTAINING THE SPARE TIRE. WATER CONTAMINATION OF THE CONTROL UNIT FOR THE POWER LIFT GATE CAN RESULT IN DISABLING OF THE POWER LIFT GATE MOTOR. HAZARD:WATER WILL CAUSE A SHORT CIRCUIT WHICH COULD LEAD TO A FIRE. REMEDY:DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAL OF THE REAR TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY WITH A THICKER ONE AND REPOSITION THE AFFECTED POWER LIFT GATE CONTROL UNIT INSIDE THE CHASSIS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ AT 1-800-367-6372. ADDITIONAL INFO:MERCEDES BENZ RECALL NO. 2009030003.OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S
Feb 06, 2018
THE INSULATION OF THE CABLES FOR THE HIGH AND LOW BEAM IS MISSING.THE WIRES ARE WITHOUT ANY INSULATION AT ALL.I CAN NOT USE THE LIGHTS BECAUSE I'M AFRAID OF A SHORT .OTHER WISE, I CAN USE THE CAR AS LONG AS I DON'T TURN THE FRONT LIGHTS ON.
Feb 07, 2017
REAR HATCH WOULD NOT COMPETELY CATCH WHEN CLOSING. IT REQUIRED OPENING AND RECLOSING SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE COULD CATCH. SOON THEREAFTER IT WOULD NOT OPEN USING THE AUTOMATIC RELEASE. IT HAD TO BE OPENED USING THE MANUAL RELEASE ON THE INTERIOR SIDE OF THE DOOR. HAD TO CHANGE THE MECHANISM THAT CONTROLLED THE LOCKING AN OPENING OF THAT.
Jul 01, 2016
+ 3 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
7 complaints
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.
Jan 09, 2023
The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V615000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not available. 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 with the vehicle; however, a mechanic was sent to the home to examine the vehicle and deemed the vehicle unsafe to operate. Parts distribution disconnect.
Nov 18, 2022
The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated upon taking the vehicle to the dealer for servicing, he was informed that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the vehicle remained at the dealer for 2 months. The contact later received the recall notification. 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 and advised the contact that parts were not available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Sep 16, 2022
The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Sep 08, 2022
The contact owns a 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Aug 17, 2022
+ 2 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
6 complaints
Engine died and won't run. Known issue with MB balance shaft that they refuse to repair or help with the cost of a $8k job. Highly disappointed.
Aug 28, 2025
TRUCK JUST SHUT OFF WHILE SITTING AT THE STOP LIGHT AND ONCE WHILE TAKING OFF AT THE LIGHT AND WOULDN'T START BACK AFTER A FEW TRY'S
Apr 07, 2016
A SEAL FOR THE ENGINE OIL COOLER FAILED. THE COOLER LEAKED OIL ONTO THE UNDER-ENGINE PAN AND WAS NOT DETECTED AS A LEAK ON THE GARAGE FLOOR. HAD THE COOLER FAILED COMPLETELY IT WOULD HAVE CREATED A SAFETY ISSUE IN TRAFFIC. THE SEAL FAILURE APPEARS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM BUT SHOULD NOT OCCUR UNDER NORMAL USE, WHICH IS HOW THIS VEHICLE IS USED. *TR
Feb 13, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2007 MERCEDES-BENZ ML 350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO DECELERATE WITHOUT WARNING. ALSO, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT SMOKE STARTED TO EMIT FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED OR DIAGNOSED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 87,000.
Jul 01, 2014
MERCEDES HAS MANUFACTURED A DEFECTIVE ENGINE OIL COOLER SEAL. IT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED ON EVERY DIESEL ENGINE AT A COST OF AROUND 4000$. *TR
May 21, 2014
+ 1 more complaint for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaints
unknown
May 19, 2023
8/1/2021 accident involving 2008 Mercedes ML320 CDI >recall faulty tow hitch< Mercedes has refused to conduct an investigation and resolve these damages. While injured (both myself and 9 yr old son w/ a heart condition), no serious injuries or fatalities happened during the accident. It resulted in totaling the vehicle and our camper. Recall doc's show that Mercedes of New Orleans completed the recall; however, they either falsified disclosing they did the repair or conduct poor workmanship when repairing the hitch. While driving the hitch broke/cracked resulting the camper flipping over and slamming into the truck. I have photos along w/ consulted w/ certified welder confirming the weld was not properly done. More photos if needed.
Sep 01, 2021
Tow hitch weld broke resulting in vehicle accident. Interstate wreck, could have killed myself, my 9 yr old and 4 dogs along w/ any other vehicles that could have struck us.
Aug 06, 2021
MY MICHELIN LATITUDE TOUR HP 255/50 R19 TIRES ARE LOSING CHUCKS OF RUBBER. THE TIRES HAVE MULTIPLE CHUCKS OF RUBBER MISSING ALL THROUGH THE TIRE. I HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE, AND I AM WORRIED FOR MY SAFETY REGARDING THESE TIRES. MY MECHANIC STATED THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM FOR MICHELIN AND THEY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I PAID A LOT OF MONEY FOR THESE AT THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIP, AND THEY ARE EXTREMELY POOR QUALITY AND UNSAFE. I AM AFRAID THE WHOLE TIRE IS GOING TO FALL APART WHILE I'M DRIVING.
May 07, 2016
REAR HATCH WOULD NOT COMPETELY CATCH WHEN CLOSING. IT REQUIRED OPENING AND RECLOSING SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE COULD CATCH. SOON THEREAFTER IT WOULD NOT OPEN USING THE AUTOMATIC RELEASE. IT HAD TO BE OPENED USING THE MANUAL RELEASE ON THE INTERIOR SIDE OF THE DOOR. HAD TO CHANGE THE MECHANISM THAT CONTROLLED THE LOCKING AN OPENING OF THAT.
Apr 08, 2016
SEAT BELTS
5 complaints
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).
Mar 07, 2022
REAR LEFT AND RIGHT PASSENGER SEATBELT MECHANISMS (RETRACTING FUNCTION) ARE DEFECTIVE; BELTS DON'T WANT TO RETRACT BACK IN AFTER THEY HAVE BEEN PULLED OUT/USED
Dec 08, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES ML 350. THE CONTACT STATED THE PASSENGER REAR SEAT BELT RETRACTED PREVENTING A CHILD SAFETY SEAT FROM BEING INSTALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,250.
Oct 07, 2014
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
Mar 20, 2014
MY WIFE NOTICED THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SEATBELT WAS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. IT WOULD NOT "CATCH" OR RETRACT AFTER BEING PULLED OUT. TOOK TO DEALER. THEY VERIFIED THE TENSIONER WAS BAD AND HAD TO REPLACE THE TENSIONER & SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY. IT WAS NOT COVERED BY THE ORIGINAL OR EXTENDED WARRANTY. I HAD TO PAY $551. I'VE NEVER HEARD OF THIS HAPPENING ON THIS LOW OF MILES. IT'S A VERY IMPORTANT BASIC SAFETY DEVICE. THEY HAD THE PARTS IN STOCK WHICH MADE ME THINK THIS COULD BE A COMMON PROBLEM. *TR
Dec 27, 2013
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
4 complaints
THE REAR TURN SIGNALS AND BRAKES LIGHTS ARE NOT WORKING PROPERLY, EVEN WITH NEW BULBS AND REPLACEMENT OF THE BULBS BASE CASE THE TURN SIGNAL STILL BLINKING AS IF THE BULB IS BURNED AND THE BRAKE LIGHT DOESN'T WORK SIMULTANEOUSLY IT WORK WHEN THE TURN SIGNAL IS NOT USED. THE CAR WAS TOOK TO THE DEALER SEVERAL TIMES AND THE PROBLEM CONTINUE THE SAME.
Mar 07, 2022
safety defect rear sam acting up after rain . no lights no fuel gauge no remote no turn signal while driving almost had an accident
Jan 05, 2022
DUE TO A FAULTY RIGHT TAILLAMP SEAL, WATER GOT INTO A CONTROL MODULE AND DAMAGED IT BEYOND REPAIR. I WOKE UP AND WALKED OUTSIDE TO SEE MY HEADLIGHTS FLASHING AND UPON FURTHER INSPECTION MY KEY FOB NOT WORKING, SRS DISABLED, AND MANY OTHER MISCELLANEOUS ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS DISABLED. SOME TIME BEFORE THIS, THE MOTOR TO THE REAR HATCH STOPPED WORKING, POSSIBLY FOR THE SAME REASON.
Aug 02, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CONTROL MODULE THAT IS LOCATED UNDER THE SPARE TIRE WAS DAMAGED. THERE WAS A RED LIGHT THAT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE PASSENGER DOOR WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE INTERIOR LIGHTS AND HEADLIGHTS FLASHED ON AND OFF. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHT GASKET AND CONTROL UNIT SAM MODULE WERE FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE REPAIRS WERE COMPLETED ON THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 133,500. UPDATED 10/03/2014*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AND WOULD LIKE TO BE REFUNDED. UPDATED 5/12/2015 *JS
Aug 06, 2014
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
4 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML320. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LIFTGATE FAILED TO OPEN. IN ADDITION, THE REAR MIDDLE BRAKE LIGHT FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE CONTACT CALLED MERCEDES-BENZ OF FORT LAUDERDALE AT (954) 949-0623 (LOCATED AT 2411 S FEDERAL HWY, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33316) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,000.
Feb 06, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE POWER LIFTGATE FAILED TO OPERATE. THE FAILURE RECURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE CONTROL UNIT FOR THE POWER LIFTGATE FAILED DUE TO WATER CONTAMINATION. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY HAVING THE SEAL OF THE REAR TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY REPLACED, BUT THE REMEDY FAILED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V076000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 23,000.
Jul 06, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER LIFTGATE FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT WATER LEAKED INTO THE VEHICLE THROUGH THE REAR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY DUE TO A DEFECTIVE SEAL. THERE WERE FOUR INCHES OF WATER WITHIN THE SPARE TIRE HOUSING AND THE POWER LIFTGATE HYDRAULIC MOTOR WAS COMPLETELY SUBMERGED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER REFUSED TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 128,000.
Dec 30, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML350. WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL STARTED BLINKING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TAILGATE SYSTEM MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE AND SEIZED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE RADIO AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM ALSO FAILED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON REMOVING THE SPARE TIRE, THERE WAS WATER IN THE SPARE TIRE COMPARTMENT AS WELL IN THE PASSENGER SIDE TAIL LIGHT AND ON THE TAIL GATE MODEM. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT WATER WAS ENTERING FROM THE SEAL AROUND THE REAR TAIL LAMP. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000. UPDATED 09/03/15*LJ UPDATED 12/8/2015*JS
Jun 24, 2015
SEATS
3 complaints
AFTER STARTING UP THE CAR AND TURNING ON THE SEAT HEATERS WE NOTICED A STRONG BURNING SMELL. WE HAD JUST ENTERED A SLIP ROAD AND MY WIFE (WHO WAS DRIVING) FELT A BURNING IN HER LOWER LEFT SIDE. NEXT THING... SHE WAS ON FIRE! HER WINTER COAT BUST INTO FLAMES AND AFTER PULLING OVER I GRABBED HER OUT OF THE DRIVERS SEAT AND ROLLED HER IN THE SNOW TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE, WE WERE AMAZED THAT THE SEAT HAD A LARGE BURN HOLE THROUGH THE LEATHER AND THAT THERE WASN'T ANY SAFETY SHUT OFF FOR THE SEAT HEATER INITIATED BY THE VEHICLE. AFTER A DETAILED DESCRIPTION TO THE SERVICE MANAGER AT THE LOCAL MERCEDES DEALERSHIP OF WHAT HAD HAPPENED,WE WERE TOLD THAT A $2578 REPAIR WOULD FIX THE PROBLEM... WE WERE AMAZED AT HOW UNCARING THEY WERE AND THAT THERE WASN'T A RECALL ACTIVE FOR THIS DEFECTIVE WIRING PROBLEM. WE WERE RELIEVED THAT THIS DIDN'T CAUSE ANY FATALITIES TO US OR ANY OTHER PEOPLE THAT COULD HAVE BEEN AFFECTED IF WE WOULD HAVE BEEN ON A FREEWAY AT A HIGHER SPEED.
Feb 19, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE HEATED SEAT OVERHEATED AND SMOKE EMITTED INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE MASSIVE HEAT PENETRATED A SMALL HOLE WITHIN THE DRIVER'S SEAT CUSHION. THERE WAS NO PERSONAL INJURY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,200.
Feb 01, 2013
AS I WAS PULLING OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY, MY SEAT HEATER BURNED A HOLE THROUGH MY SEAT, MY SHIRT, AND MY PANTS. I SAW A SMALL FLAME AND FELT A BURNING ON MY BACK AND IMMEDIATELY TURNED OFF THE SEAT HEATER. *TR
Oct 06, 2011
TIRES
2 complaints
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
Sep 03, 2022
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML350. THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL TIRES, CONTACT 4X4, SIZE 255-50-R19, DOT HWLHNXXN3807, SERIAL E402336540223360. THE CONTACT STATED THE DRIVER NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL WAS DIFFICULT TO TURN AND THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE IN THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER CONFIRMED THAT THE FRONT TIRE BLEW OUT. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 16,500.
Sep 29, 2011
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
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??
Sep 12, 2021
2008 MERCEDES ML 350 BRAKE LIGHTS CONTINUE TO SEND AN ERROR MESSAGE THAT LEFT AND RIGHT BRAKE LIGHTS ARE OUT SOMETIMES THEY ARE AND SOMETIMES THEY AREN'T ITS ISN'T THE LIGHT BULB AND WAS TOLD THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH THIS YEAR. WATER CONTINUES TO LEAK IN THROUGH THE REAR BRAKE LIGHT DAMAGING THE SAM UNIT
Aug 09, 2018
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
smells badly for gas in cabin and outside
Jul 12, 2021
ONGOING ISSUES WITH THE VEHICLES CAMSHAFT SOLENOID SYSTEM. ANNUALLY I HAVE THIS ISSUE. WHAT IS HAPPENING IS THAT ONCE A YEAR THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AND I AM BEING TOLD BY REPAIR SPECIALISTS THAT THE CAMSHAFT SOLENOID MUST BE REPLACED. I REPLACE THEM AND THE NEXT YEAR I HAVE THE SAME CHALLENGE. I FIND IT STRANGE THAT MERCEDES HAS YET TO DO A RECALL ON THIS AS I'VE SEARCHED ONLINE AND THIS SEEMS TO BE AN ONGOING ISSUE WITH ALL OF THEIR VEHICLE'S TRANSMISSION SYSTEM.
Jul 29, 2015
SUSPENSION
2 complaints
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
Jun 05, 2020
RIGHT REAR COIL SPRING BROKEN. REAR OF VEHICLE HAS UNEVEN LEVEL. COULD AFFECT HANDLING. *TR
Feb 13, 2015
AIR BAGS
2 complaints
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.
May 04, 2016
BOTH SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS), OR AIRBAG SYSTEMS MALFUNCTIONED WITH 15 MINUTES OF EACH OTHER DURING AN ORDINARY DRIVE TO MY BUSINESS LOCATION DURING A BUSINESS TRIP WITH MY MANAGEMENT. THE HEADREST ON THE PASSENGER SIDE DEPLOYED TO THE "CRASH" CONFIGURATION, THE CABIN FILLED WITH ACRID, BURNT ELECTRONICS SMELL AND THE RED SRS DASH LIGHT LIT. TEN MINUTES LATER, THE CABIN ONCE-AGAIN WAS FILLED WITH THE ACRID BURNT ELECTRONICS SMELL AND A SMALL AMOUNT OF SMOKE. THE SECOND TIME THE DRIVER SIDE MALFUNCTIONED. THERE WAS NO AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND NO CRASH. *TR
Jun 13, 2010
POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
LOSS OF POWER STEERING FLUID RESULTING IN DIMINISHED OR TOTAL LOSS OF POWER STEERING. THOUGH TOTAL LOSS DID NOT HAPPEN YET, THIS COULD EASILY HAVE RESULTED IN A LOSS OF CONTROL AND A CRASH WITHOUT ANY WARNING. 1998-2004 CLASS WAS RECALLED FOR THAT VERY REASON; WHY NOT THE MODEL YEARS THEREAFTER THAT HAVE SAME PROBLEM; LIKELY IN SAME FREQUENCY. *TR
Jan 05, 2015
MERCEDES BENZ ML 350 2008 WAS INVOLVED IN AN INCIDENT IN WHICH THE DRIVER PUT THE CAR INTO PARK TO RETRIEVE AN ITEM FROM THE BACK SEAT. DRIVER STEPPED OUT OF THE VEHICLE TO RETRIEVE AN ITEM FROM THE BACK SEAT OF VEHICLE. DRIVER OPENED THE BACK SEAT DOOR AND VEHICLE MOVED FORWARD APPROXIMATELY 31/2 FEET. DURING THE MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE DRIVERS FEET WERE RUN OVER BY VEHICLE AN PINNED UNDER LEFT BACK TIRE. 911 WAS CALLED POLICE & FIRE DEPARTMENT ASSISTED TO JACK UP CAR AND PULL DRIVER OUT FROM UNDER THE TIRE. PARAMEDICS ATTENDED AND DRIVER WAS TAKEN BY AMBULANCE TO HOSPITAL. DRIVER OBTAINED COMPRESSION INJURY WITH FOOT FRACTURE. DRIVER WILL BE CONTACTING MERCEDES BENZ TO NOTIFY OF INCIDENT REPORT AND INJURY. DRIVER WOULD LIKE COMPLAINT REGISTERED AS A SAFETY PRECAUTION TO AVOID SUCH FUTURE INCIDENCES RELATED TO ELECTRONIC SHIFTING COLUMN DEVICE INJURIES. *TR
Feb 09, 2009
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML320. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING THROUGH THE AUTOMATED CAR WASH CONVEYOR AT APPROXIMATELY 1 MPH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Jan 02, 2015
IT WAS 6:30 IN THE MORNING AND I WAS PULLING INTO MY GYM'S PARKING LOT. AS I ATTEMPTED TO BRAKE, THE CAR CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE. I KEPT PUMPING ON THE BRAKE ONLY TO HAVE THE CAR MAKE A GRINDING SOUND AS IT CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE (AS IF IT WERE RESISTING MY ATTEMPTS TO STOP IT). EVENTUALLY, AND THANKFULLY BEFORE IT HIT THE BUILDING, THE CAR STALLED TO A STOP. THE CAR ACTUALLY ASCENDED 3 WOODEN PORCH STEPS AND HIT INTO A WOODEN PORCH COLUMN BEFORE STOPPING. IT WAS A VERY EARLY SATURDAY MORNING. HAD I PULLED INTO THIS DRIVEWAY MID MORNING, ON THIS SATURDAY (A TIME WHEN THIS GYM IS ESPECIALLY ACTIVE), I COULD VERY WELL HAVE KILLED SOMEBODY. ON THE DAY OF THE INCIDENT, THE CAR WAS TOWED TO MERCEDES BENZ OF GREENWICH, CONNECTICUT. AT THE TIME, I WAS GIVEN A LOANER CAR TO DRIVE (AT NO EXPENSE TO ME). I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT A CASE HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED TO INVESTIGATE THE INCIDENT. AFTER A WEEK'S TIME, I CONTACTED MERCEDES BENZ (800-367-6372 X6302 JUSTIN) IN AN EFFORT TO ASCERTAIN THE STATUS OF THIS INVESTIGATION. I COULD NOT GET A DIRECT ANSWER OF ANY KIND FROM THE GENTLEMAN THAT I SPOKE TO. MERCEDES BENZ'S LACK OF COMMUNICATION HAS BEEN VERY DISTURBING GIVEN THE SEVERITY OF THIS SITUATION. THIS IS A LEASED CAR WHICH I HAVE HAD FOR A LITTLE OVER 1 YEAR. WITHOUT ANY KIND OF EXPLANATION FROM MB AS TO WHY THIS HAPPENED, I DON'T THINK I WOULD STEP INTO THIS CAR IF AND WHEN IT WAS REPAIRED. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY INTERVENTION YOUR DEPARTMENT IS PREPARED TO PUT FORTH ON MY BEHALF HERE THANK YOU. *TR
Mar 27, 2009
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaints
CAR STALLED AT HIGHWAY SPEED OF APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH. DAUGHTER WAS BARELY ABLE TO GET THE CAR STOPPED DUE TO LACK OF POWER STEERING AND BRAKES. WAS BARELY ABLE TO AVOID TREE AND INJURY TO HER AND HER PASSENGER. *TR
Jun 20, 2008
THE OIL LEVEL LOW MESSAGE COMES ON EVEN WHEN THE OIL LEVEL IS FULL. THIS OCCURS AT HIGHWAY SPEED WHEN OUTSIDE TEMPERATURES ARE HIGH. *TR
Feb 29, 2008
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
Right rear brake light inoperative even with new bulb. Dash warning light shows this light not working .08
Aug 24, 2024
STEERING,SUSPENSION
1 complaint
See attached document for complaint
Apr 17, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaint
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?
Sep 06, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
FAULTY WIRING IN THE BRAKE LIGHT HARNESS THAT COULD CAUSE FIRE. WIRING COMMONLY ARCS CAUSING THE BULBS TO BURN OUT AND COULD POTENTIALLY CAUSE A FIRE. MERCEDES HAS OTHER CARS WITH THIS SAME PROBLEM, BUT WON'T ADDRESS IT ON THE ML350'S. THEY EVEN MADE A PART TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM, BUT DEMAND CAR OWNERS PAY OUT OF POCKET TO FIX MERCEDES FAULTY WIRING PROBLEM.
Jun 07, 2019
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING THE MERCEDES ML320 AT NIGHT THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY POSTED THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE "BATTERY VOLTAGE IS TOO LOW. PLEASE START THE ENGINE. OTHERWISE, COMAND WILL SHUT OFF IN 3 MINUTES." THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING AT THIS TIME AND THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. A SHORT TIME LATER THE HEADLIGHTS ON THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY WENT OUT. I TURNED ON THE FLASHERS AND THEY ALSO WENT OUT IN A SHORT TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND WOULD NOT RE-START. ABOUT 15 MINUTES WENT BY AND THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED AND FULLY FUNCTIONAL. NO SIGNS OF CODES OR REDUCED LIGHTING PERFORMANCE. ALSO, NO SIGNS OR REDUCED BATTERY PERFOMANCE WAS OBSERVED.
Dec 31, 2018
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
MONDAY MORNING, JULY 24, 2017 THERE WERE TORRENTIAL DOWNPOURS IN THE EARLY MORNING LEAVING LOTS OF STANDING WATER ON ROADWAYS. AFTER DRIVING THE CAR AND GOING THROUGH STANDING WATER ON ROADWAYS, CAR LOST POWER AND THEN ENGINE STOPPED. FORTUNATELY, I WAS ABLE TO COAST ONTO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROADWAY AND CAME TO A SAFE RESTING PLACE. CAR WOULD NOT RESTART. I WAS STRANDED WITH AN INOPERATIVE VEHICLE.
Jul 31, 2017
STEERING,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
MY POWER STEERING PIN BROKE AND THERE WAS A RECALL ON THIS SAME EXACT THING AND MY VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED
Apr 24, 2017
STRUCTURE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER LIFTGATE FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT WATER LEAKED INTO THE VEHICLE THROUGH THE REAR TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY DUE TO A DEFECTIVE SEAL. THERE WAS FOUR INCHES OF WATER IN THE SPARE TIRE HOUSING AND THE POWER LIFTGATE HYDRAULIC MOTOR WAS COMPLETELY SUBMERGED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER REFUSED TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,000.
Jul 01, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
WATER ENTERED THE VEHICLE (RAIN) STANDING WATER IN THE SPARE TIRE AREA OF THE CAR. THE WINDSHIELD WIPER QUIT WORKING. GOT ERROR MESSAGES ON THE DASH REAR HATCH OPEN, CHECKED REAR HATCH WAS CLOSED AND IT WOULD NOT OPEN EITHER MANUALLY OR USING THE REMOTE OPENER OR THE BUTTON IN THE CAR, MULTIPLE ERROR MESSAGES REAR BRAKE LIGHTS LEFT RIGHT SIDE AND TRAILER, ERROR MESSAGE SRS FAILURE, FUEL GAUGE QUIT WORKING, LOCKS NOT WORKING..... PARKED THE CAR IT WAS RAINING UNABLE TO DRIVE, THE NEXT DAY DROVE IT TO A MECHANIC WHO FOUND 1" OF STANDING WATER IN THE SPARE TIRE WELL. THE LIFT GATE CONTROLLER IS IN THE WELL AND WAS WET AND NOT FUNCTIONING IN ALSO TOOK OUT ANOTHER CONTROLLER PART COST $978.61 LABOR 474.50 I DID NOT HAVE TIME FOR THE MECHANIC TO FIND THE SOURCE OF THE LEAK HE HAD THE CAR 4 DAYS BEFORE THE NEW YEARS DAY WEEKEND (OUT OF TOWN 250 MILES FROM HOME) TOOK IT TO THE MERCEDES DEALER THEY SAID THE 2009 YEAR MODEL HAD A LEAKY SEAL AT THE TURN SIGNALS THAT HAD A RECALL BUT IT DID NOT INCLUDE MY MODEL YEAR ALTHOUGH IT SOUNDS LIKE THE SAME PROBLEM. THE CAR WAS DRIVEN IN THE RAIN I DID NOT ENCOUNTER FLOODED ROADS JUST RAINFALL. MERCEDES WAS UNWILLING TO HELP IN ANY WAY.
Jan 05, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
I PURCHASED A USED 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML350 VIN: [XXX] TODAY, MY POWER LIFT GATE STOPPED OPERATING. I CAN HEAR THE MOTOR RUNNING WHEN I PRESS THE OPEN/CLOSE BUTTON THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR, AND ALSO ON MY REMOTE, BUT THE POWER LIFT GATE DOESN'T OPERATE. UPON DOING SOME BASIC RESEARCH, I UNDERSTOOD THAT RECALLS WERE MADE ON THE 2009 AND NEWER ML350 DUE TO A FAULTY SEAL WITH THE REAR LIGHTING ASSEMBLY UNIT, WHICH WOULD CAUSE WATER TO LEAK INTO THE SPARE TIRE ASSEMBLY AREA AND CAUSE THE POWER LIFT GATE TO STOP WORKING; IT MAY ALSO CAUSE A FIRE. UPON REMOVING THE SPARE TIRE TO INSPECT THE AREA, I SAW A LARGE POOL OF WATER IN THE AREA. THERE WAS ALSO WATER NEAR THE LEFT BRAKE LIGHT ASSEMBLY. THE WATER APPEARS TO HAVE EVEN CAUSED DETERIORATION OF WIRES ASSOCIATED WITH THE LEFT BRAKE LIGHT ASSEMBLY UNIT. FOLLOWING MY ABOVE OBSERVATIONS, I CHECKED RECALLS AND NOTHING WAS SHOWN FOR MY 2008 ML350, BUT CLEARLY THIS IS ASSOCIATED PROBLEM OF MY YEAR AS WELL. HOW CAN WE GO ABOUT GETTING THIS COVERED? THANK YOU, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Dec 28, 2015
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
MY ML350 KEPT BLOWING IT'S BRAKE LIGHTS. AFTER AWHILE OF THIS I REALIZED THAT SOMETHING WAS OBVIOUSLY WRONG. AT THIS POINT BOTH LIGHTS WERE OUT AT THE SAME TIME. I TOOK IT IN TO FIND THAT THE SOCKETS WERE BURNT OUT AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I WAS THEN TOLD THAT THE WIRING ALSO NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND MERCEDES BENZ HAD A FIX FOR IT ALL BUT AT A PRICE. I WAS ALSO TOLD THAT THE C SERIES HAD A RECALL FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. WHY ARE THERE NO RECALL FOR THE ML OR THE M SERIES? *TR
Apr 06, 2015
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
1 complaint
LATCH ON TAILGATE WILL NOT CATCH. THE GATE WILL CLOSE AUTOMATICALLY BUT WILL NOT LATCH. UPON RESEARCHING THIS ITEM, THERE ARE SEVERAL OTHER COMPLAINTS ON THIS SAME ISSUE. WHY DOESN'T MERCEDES RECALL THIS FEATURE. *TR
Jan 30, 2015
STEERING,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
AT 57,000 THE RACK AND PINION SEALS WENT OUT ON THE STEERING MAKING THE CAR EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO STEER. REAR SEAT BELTS HAD NEVER BEEN USED UNTIL 12/1/14 AT WHICH TIME I FOUND THEY WERE NOT USABLE. THEY WERE LOCKED INTO POSITION. THE SERVICE WRITER AT THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIP SAID HE OWNED THE SAME MODEL AND HAD TO REPLACE HIS TWICE. DEALER AND FACTORY BOTH REFUSED TO REPAIR EITHER ITEM. *TR
Dec 16, 2014
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
LESS THAN A YEAR AFTER I BOUGHT THE CAR, DURING MONTH OF APRIL 2014, DIFFERENT ERROR MESSAGES STARTED TO APPEAR ON DASH INCLUDING ABS (BRAKE SYSTEM), SRS (AIR BAGS), AND STEERING WHEEL VIBRATING, HARD TO TURN WHEEL, A FEW TAIL/PARKING LIGHTS NOT WORKING. AT SHOP, THEY SAID SENSORS WERE BAD, AND DUE TO MY EXTENDED WARRANTY THEY REPLACED THE ENTIRE POWER STEERING SYSTEM ($272) BUT SAID TO REPAIR THE AIR BAGS WOULD COST $800. A DIFFERENT MECHANIC SAID UNDER $100 TO FIX AIR BAG SENSORS. NOW, AUGUST 2014, TRUNK LIFT MOTORS ARE KONKING OUT AND THE LOCK IS NOT LATCHING, POPS OPEN WHILE DRIVING, HAVE TO PULL OVER TO SHUT BEFORE EVERYTHING FALLS OUT. ALSO OTHER MOTORS FOR WINDOWS AND SUNROOF WORK INTERMITTENTLY. WHEN TURNING LEFT THE PARKING BRAKE SENSOR LIGHT POPS UP ON DASH....ALSO OUT OF THE BLUE ONE DAY THE WHOLE GPS SYSTEM WAS BLANK, TOTALLY WIPED OF ALL INFO DESTINATIONS, HISTORY ETC FROM PAST YEAR, ONLY A MAP SHOWS NOW. *TR
Aug 28, 2014
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
MERCEDES ML350 WAS FORCED OFF THE ROAD ON A RURAL HIGHWAY, FRONT END DROVE STRAIGHT INTO WOODED AREA STRIKING A TREE JUST RIGHT OF DRIVERS SIDE HEADLAMP WITH SERIOUS DAMAGE TO BUMPER AND HOOD PUSHING INTO RADIATOR...DRIVERS SIDE FRONT AIRBAG NEVER DEPLOYED...BOTH SIDE CURTAIN BAGS DEPLOYED...LUCKILY WITH LOW SPEED AND SEAT BELT ON DRIVER WAS NOT INJURED... *TR
Jul 25, 2014
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
ORIGINAL CAR, 2007 ML350,REPLACED WITH A 2008 BY DEALER AFTER MULTIPLE PROBLEMS, 2008 MANUFACTURED IN JANUARY,2008 THESE CARS A MANUFACTURED PROBLEM IN TO SPRING OF 2008,.CARS AT THAT TIME CONSIDERED WORST USED CAR IN CONSUMER GUIDE.. INTERNET SHOWS ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS FROM SEVERAL CUSTOMERS. NOT ABLE TO MAKE CONTACTS WITH THE HEAD OFFICE, WARRANTY GONE BECAUSE OF TIME,2008 HAS SAME PROBLEMS AS 2007, CAR HAS BEEN IN GARAGE MORE TIME THAN I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO DRIVE IT, AIR BAGS ENGAGED AND DISENGAGED, WINDSHIELD WIPERS COME ON WHEN NO RAIN, BACK LIFT OPENS BY ITSELF, WINDOWS WILL GO UP AND DOWN AT WILL, GPS DOES NOT WORK, STEERING WHEEL WILL NOT ADJUST, SEATS WON'T FOLD DOWN, OIL LEAK, OCCASIONAL ROTTEN EGG SMELL IN CAR, HEATER COMES ON AUTOMATICALLY AND CAR GETS SO HOT, HAVE TO OPEN THE WINDOWS, YET WHEN YOU WANT HEAT YOU OFTEN TIMES CANNOT GET IT TRANSMISSION LEAK (ALL CONSIDERED UNUSUAL BY THE DISTRIBUTOR, HAVE ALL REPAIR BILLS AVAILABLE, TECHNICIANS HAVE FOUND MOST ALL OF THE PROBLEMS, REPAIR COSTS ABOUT 1500 A WHACK, THEY HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT SHOULD SOMEONE GET HURT IN THIS CAR, THEY WILL BE HELD RESPONSIBLE, CAN'T AFFORD TO TRADE, I AM HANGING OUT ON A LIMB IN AN UNSAFE CAR. THESE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE THINGS THAT HAPPEN- HAVE FRIENDS IN THE CAR THAT CAN VERIFY ALL HAPPENINGS. LETTERS TO IRA ROSENBURRG (?) FROM PRIME MOTORS, SCARBOROUGH, MAINE GO UNANSWERED, JUST ASKED TO SIT DOWN AND TALK, SOME RUDE ENCOUNTERS, PRESENTLY WANT TO DO A TRANSMISSION OIL REPAIR AT 1500, CAR COST 57,000 THINKING ONE HAD A RELIABLE CAR, ONLY HAS LOW MILEAGE EITHER DON'T DARE DRIVE IT A LONG DISTANCE OR IT IS IN THE GARAGE FOR WORK.MY QUESTION: WHY DO WE SEE MAJOR RECALLS FOR MANY CARS BUT NEVER SEE MAJOR RECALLS FOR MERCEDES WHEN INTERNET SHOWS MANY PEOPLE HAVE PROBLEMS????? WOULD I RECOMMEND MERCEDES TO ANYONE---- NEVER QUESTION IS "CAR IN GARAGE AGAIN?" *TR
Apr 01, 2014
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
ATM AT BANK WAS NOT OPERATING AND WAS GOING INSIDE BANK, AT REGIONS BANK IN HENDERSONVILLE TN. WHEN CAR WAS SHIFTED FROM PARK INTO DRIVE THE CAR TOOK OFF AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED, THAT COULD NOT BE STOPPED BY BRAKING. THE RESULT BEING,HITTING TWO CARS, WHEN TRYING TO GO BETWEEN THEM, THEN STILL COULDN'T STOP UNTIL NOSE DIVE IN ROCK LINED FOUR FOOT DITCH . *TR
Nov 21, 2013
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
WHILE PARKING MY CAR, GOING FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE TO STRAIGHTEN THE WHEELS, IT SUDDENLY, AUTOMATICALLY ACCELERATED AND HIT A PARKED CAR AND CRASHED INTO A TREE IN A YARD LOCATED ABOUT 12 YARDS OR SO AWAY, SIGNIFICANTLY DAMAGING THE FRONT OF THE CAR, SIDE OF THE CAR, AND CAUSING THE AIR BAGS TO BE RELEASED. THIS WAS AN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION BY THE VEHICLE THAT AUTOMATICALLY OCCURRED. I SUFFERED BRUISES IN THE FOREHEAD AND RIGHT HAND, AND LACERATION OF THE LEFT KNEE.
Oct 20, 2013
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TRANSMISSION IS HAVING PROBLEMS ACCELERATING AND SHIFTING GEARS. WOULD "REV" UP THEN NOT SHIFT AND NOT ALLOW MY CAR TO ACCELERATE WHILE I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY, CAUSING CARS TO BACK UP BEHIND ME AND PUTTING ME IN DANGER. AT OTHER TIMES IT WILL NOT ALLOW ME TO EVEN ACCELERATE. HAVE TO CONSISTENTLY RESTART MY CAR IN DANGEROUS PLACES ON THE ROAD TO GET IT TO EVENTUALLY WORK. WENT BY BODY SHOP AND TURNS OUT TO BE A SPEED SENSOR CODE ISSUE WITH THE TRANSMISSION. NEEDS SOME FORM OF A VALVE BODY REPAIR, BUT UNSURE TO WHAT EXTENT. THIS IS ONE OF MANY PROBLEMS WITH THIS VEHICLE. *TR
Nov 30, 2012
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
MARCH 2011, I WAS HEADING HOME. I WAS TALKING ON THE HANDS FREE PHONE SYSTEM, AND IMMEDIATELY I FELT A JERK AND HEARD A NOISE. I LOOKED AT THE CONTROL PANEL AND THE VEHICLE PANEL READ "N" NEUTRAL INSTEAD OF "D" DRIVE. THE VEHICLE AUTOMATICALLY SWITCHED INTO NEURAL ON THE FREEWAY AT 70MPH!!!! AT THIS POINT I AM IN THE FAST LANE AND HYSTERICAL. I PRESSED THE GAS AND NOTHING HAPPENED. THE SPEED DECREASED TO 40MPH AND CARS ARE NOW RACING PAST AND BEHIND ME. LUCKILY, A POLICE OFFICER SPOTTED ME AND PHYSICALLY HIT MY CAR AND MOVED IT OVER TO THE SIDE WHILE I WAS IN IT. I EXPLAINED WHAT OCCURRED AS HE YELLED "ARE YOU CRAZY YOU COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED WHAT HAPPENED". I ASKED HIM FOR A POLICE REPORT AND HE IMMEDIATELY HAD TO DEPART. THE NEXT DAY, I IMMEDIATELY REPORTED THE INCIDENT TO THE DEALER. THE DIAGNOSIS WAS MY CONTROL PANEL NEEDED TO BE RESET, AN APOLOGY WAS GIVEN AND TEST DRIVES OCCURRED. I WAS ASKED DID I TOUCH ANY BUTTONS AND REPLIED NO. THEY RECREATED THE SCENE AND CONDUCTED A TEST DRIVE. THE CAR DID NOT SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL EVEN WHEN IT WAS TAMPERED WITH WHILE DRIVING. ON 8 MAY 2012, THE INCIDENT OCCURRED AGAIN! MY CAR SWITCHED INTO NEUTRAL TWICE IN 1 DAY! THE SECOND TIME I WAS AT A STOP SIGN. TODAY IS 15 MAY 2012, AND MY CAR IS WITH THE DEALER NOW. I AM AFRAID OF DRIVING MY ML350 2008 MODEL. MUCH WORSE, THE DEALER ALLUDES TO ASKING ME HAVE I TOUCHED ANYTHING. IF THIS IS THE CASE, THEN A SAFETY MESSAGE SHOULD BE POSTED, WARNING IF YOU "TOUCH" A BUTTON YOUR CAR WILL SWITCH TO NEUTRAL WHILE DRIVING. I HAVE A 4 MONTH OLD DAUGHTER AND BOUGHT THE VEHICLE FOR SAFETY. I EXPLAINED TO THE DEALER I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO WAIT TILL I AM HURT OR INJURED FOR SOMETHING TO BE DONE. HE STATED "NOTHING IS COMING UP ON THE DIAGNOSTICS THE SYSTEM IS VERY SMART'. THE DEALER EVEN DENIED THERE ARE ANY RECALLS FOR THE ML 350 2008. I'VE HIRED AN ATTORNEY.
May 16, 2012
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
BOTH REAR BRAKE LIGHT ASSEMBLIES HAVE FAILED. THESE FAILURES INCREASE THE LIKELIHOOD OF A REAR END COLLISION. WHEN THE LEFT ASSEMBLY FAILED IN 2011, I ATTRIBUTED IT TO BAD LUCK. WHEN THE RIGHT ASSEMBLY FAILED AT 66000 MILES IN 2012, IT OCCURRED TO ME THAT MERCEDES MAY HAVE A PROBLEM THAT DESERVES A RECALL ACTION. INSTEAD OF COSTING ABOUT $5 TO $10 FOR LIGHT BULBS THESE ASSEMBLIES COST ABOUT $300 EACH TO REPLACE AND INSTALL. $600 IS ENOUGH TO CAUSE SOME PEOPLE TO NOT REPAIR THEM AND THUS CREATE A SAFETY HAZARD. AT 65000 MILES I ALSO ENCOUNTERED SOME VERY EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR OIL LEAKS THAT MAKE MESSES ON MY DRIVEWAY AND CAUSE WATER POLLUTION WHEN THE OIL RUNS OFF. HAVE YOU HAD ANY REPORTS OF REAR SEAL LEAKS, OIL PAN LEAKS OR OIL COOLER LEAKS ON THIS VEHICLE?
Apr 13, 2012
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
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.
Mar 28, 2012
WHEELS
1 complaint
I HAVE OWNED A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML350 SINCE IT WAS NEW AND IT NOW HAS 52,000 MILES ON IT. THIS PAST WEEKEND I NOTICED A CRACK IN THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL THAT GOES ALL THE WAY THROUGH THE WHEEL "SPOKE". THAT IS THE MAIN PART OF THE WHEEL HAS FAILED AND IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE. THE WHEEL IS ORIGINAL OEM SUPPLIED AND HAS NEVER BEEN MODIFIED. ALL OF THE DRIVING HAS BEEN BY MYSELF ON CITY STREETS AND FREEWAYS WITH NO ABUSIVE DRIVING, OR OFF-ROAD ACTIVITY. IN FACT THE VEHICLE HAS NEVER BEEN DRIVEN ON A NON-PAVED ROAD. I LIVE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SO POTHOLES AS YOU WOULD FIND IN OTHER PARTS OF THE US ARE NOT AN ISSUE. MY FEELING IS THAT THIS IS A MATERIAL DEFECT IN THE MANUFACTURE OR DESIGN OF THE WHEEL. THE DEALER HAS ADVISED ME THAT IF I CONTINUE TO DRIVE ON IT IN THE PRESENT CONDITION THE WHEEL WILL FAIL AT SOME POINT WHEN THE CAR IS IN MOTION WHICH WILL SURELY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. *TR
Feb 14, 2012
VISIBILITY
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 50 MPH WHEN A POP SOUND CAME FROM THE SUNROOF. THE CONTACT THEN REALIZED THAT THE SUNROOF WAS SHATTERED, BUT DID NOT FALL COMPLETELY APART. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE SUNROOF AND FOUND NO STRUCTURAL DAMAGE BUT ADVISED THAT THE SUN ROOF HAD MORE THAN LIKELY BEEN STRUCK BY A ROCK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN ON OPEN ROAD WITH NO OTHER VEHICLES AROUND. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 51,000.
Oct 28, 2011
POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHT FAILED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO PERFORMED A DIAGNOSIS AND LOCATED THE FAILURE AS THE TAIL LIGHT SOCKET GROUND WIRING CONNECTIONS AS FAULTY. THE DEALER REPLACED THE SOCKET WITH AND UPGRADED SOCKET KIT. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT WAS EXPERIENCING TRANSMISSION FAILURES WHEN DOWNSHIFTING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND ATTEMPTING TO UP SHIFT THE GEAR. THE DEALER ADVISED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILURE COULD BE CORRECTED BY INSTALLING UPDATED SOFTWARE. THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,630 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 53,678. UPDATED 5/24/11 *CN
Apr 01, 2011
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
2008 MERCEDES BENZ ML63. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEMS WITH GASOLINE LEAK AND FUEL GAUGE INDICATOR *TGW WHILE DRIVING ON A COLD RAINY DAY, GAS FUMES GRADUALLY FILLED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THE WINDOWS WERE ROLLED UP AND THE HEATER WAS ON AT THE TIME. SHORTLY AFTER, THE GAS GAUGE INDICATOR BEGAN TO APPROACH EMPTY MUCH FASTER THAN USUAL. ABOUT AN HOUR LATER, WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONSUMER NOTICED GAS FLOWING ON THE GROUND AROUND THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP AND AN INSPECTION REVEALED A RUPTURE IN THE GAS TANK. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED SOMETHING SUCH AS A ROAD HAZARD MUST HAVE HIT THE VEHICLE. *JB MB DENIED THE CONSUMERS REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT. UPDATED 06/10/10.*JB
Jun 03, 2010
TRAILER HITCHES
1 complaint
JP MERCEDES BENZ IN PERU IL REPAIRS ML + GL TRAILER HITCHES ROUTINELY WITH A TOO SMALL WELDER + NON CERTIFIED PERSONNEL PERFORMING THE WELDING. THEY EXHIBIT TOTAL DISREGARD FOR THE SAFETY OF THEIR CUSTOMER AND ANYONE FOLLOWING ONE OF THESE "REPAIRED" VEHICLES.I HAVE PERSONALLY WITNESSED THIS. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT THE SERVICE MANAGER + ASK HIM TO PRODUCE THE NAME OF THE "CERTIFIED" WELDER WHO PERFORMS THESE BLATANTLY INFERIOR REPAIRS AS THIS WILL CONTINUE INDEFINITELY UNTIL SOMEONE EXPOSES THIS DEALERSHIP AS THE PERPETRATORS OF REPAIR FRAUD THAT THEY ARE. THEIR PHONE # IS 815-223-7000. *TR
Aug 07, 2009
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class have?
The 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class currently has 110 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class?
The most common problems reported for the 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2008 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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