2011 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.
VIN Decoder
115
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
AIR BAGS
57 complaints
Nearest dealership refused to complete the recall repairs. On March 6, during a moving traffic accident that totaled both cars, the air bags failed to deploy, resulting in injury to the driver (me).
May 09, 2023
TAKATA RECALL. I HAVE BEEN WAITING PATIENTLY SINCE FEBRUARY 2016, AND EVERY 6 MONTHS MERCEDES BENZ KEEPS DELAYING THE REMEDY TO THIS POTENTIALLY FATAL ISSUE. MY WIFE AND TODDLER RIDE IN THIS VEHICLE AND I'M ALWAYS IN FEAR THE AIRBAG CAN DEPLOY CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. HOW MUCH LONGER AM I SUPPOSED TO WAIT FOR THE PARTS TO BE READY WHILE MERCEDES BENZ IS MAKING RECORD PROFITS?
Jun 23, 2019
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V081000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Jun 14, 2019
TAMARA RECALL. AIRBAGS WERE SUPPOSED TO BE REPLACED IN JUNE 2018. NEVER RECEIVED A FINAL NOTICE TO HAVE REPLACED. MY WIFE NO LONGER WANTS TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE OUT OF FEAR. NEEDS TO BE DONE IMMEDIATELY OR A LAWSUIT WILL BE FILED.
Jun 01, 2019
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V081000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED KEYES EUROPEAN MERCEDES-BENZ (LOCATED AT 5400 VAN NUYS BLVD, SHERMAN OAKS, CA 91401, (818) 574-5053) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Mar 29, 2019
+ 52 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
12 complaints
I believe the electrical system may be defective as ever since I have had it the light bulbs frequently have to be changed. We own three vehicles in my households (the other 2 are non-Mercedes) and none of my other vehicles do this. The latest issue with the electrical system is that the rear tail lamp and power lift gate. I was told there was water that was getting in from somewhere but mechanic could not find where. I need a new SAM module and that is why my power lift gate motor does not work. As I did some research online, the same exact problem was recalled on a the same model but the 2009 model and I have the 2011 model. I believe my car should be part of the same recall which I believe is Mercedes recall number 2009030003. That appears to be a faulty seal around the rear tail lamp assembly. I believe this is a manufacturer's defect that should be covered and would likely explain why I have had to change out light bulbs so many times over the years.
Mar 11, 2025
THE SWITCH SOME TIME NOT DETECT, AND DO NOT START. NEED TO TURN SEVERAL TIME TO START THE ENGINE. ONCE IT START NO PROBLEM. SOME TIME IN THE MORNING IT START WITHOUT ANY PROBLEM. THE DEALER TOLD ME IT IS A IGNITION PROBLEM, THE CAR MILEAGE IS ONLY 87000. WHEN I SEARCHED IN THE INTERNET, 1000 OF CUSTOMERS REPORTED THE SAME PROBLEM FOR 2010 AND 2011 MODEL CARS.
Jun 30, 2017
WHILE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY, TURNING KEY IN THE IGNITION SWITCH MAY OR MAY NOT START THE VEHICLE
Jun 13, 2017
THE CAR CAUGHT FIRE AND BURNT. THE SMOKE WERE FIRST SPOTTED FROM THE PASSENGER A/C VENT WHILE DRIVING FROM THE SCHOOL TO THE TEACHER'S HOUSE (LESS THAN 1 MILE DISTANCE). WITHIN MINUTES THE FIRE STARTED FROM THE GLOVE BOX OR PASSENGER AC VENT AREA. THE FIRE SPREAD TO THE BACK OF THE CAR IN LESS THAN 10 MINUTES. THE FIREFIGHTERS WERE THERE TO PUT OUT THE FIRE BEFORE IT GOT THE CHANCE TO GET TO THE FUEL TANK.
Mar 06, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 20011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE, IT FAILED TO START. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION STARTER SWITCH FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 81,573. UPDATED 04/06/17 *LJ *AS
Jan 09, 2017
+ 7 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES
8 complaints
Corroded brake lines. This is a well known issue for many ML350s built during this time period. This car was built with steel brake lines that easily corrode and present a serious safety issue. While driving a few months ago, the car suddenly lost the ability to brake because a line rusted completely through. The mechanic noted the lines are rusted in many other places as well. Mercedes refuses to correct this under warranty.
Sep 21, 2025
ABS Pump defective. Dealer refuses to replace this safety item.
Jul 24, 2025
I was driving locally and when I put on the brakes for a car exiting a street. Immediately my car sensor went on and my car brakes started to fail. It was a very scary situation. This is a known problem with Mercedes. Mercedes has a recall for the brake booster but will not fix the booster without the brake like being fixed. I have reached out to foreign motor car dealerships and this issue with the brake line is a known problem and a safety issue but Mercedes is not taking responsibility for this issue that can kill someone for their parts that are corroding and rotting. Mercedes too years to take responsibility for the brake booster which can kill people and now they are not taking responsibility for their brake line issues that again can injure and kill people.
Sep 06, 2024
Previously submitted to webmaster and recorded under Request # [XXX] I experienced catastrophic brake failure while driving the vehicle. As you see above all recalls have been completed and the vehicle has never been in an accident to my knowledge. I stopped the vehicle without incident or damage and had it towed to a repair shop. They determined that both rear brake lines were corroded and replaced them. I didn't think a catastrophic failure was possible in a vehicle with a dual brake system, but apparently that is not the case in this vehicle. How many similar cases have been reported? Do I have recourse to the manufacturer as it surely seems like a failure of the OEM part The vehicle has 101,000 miles on it and is in excellent condition. I am concerned that this type of catastrophic brake failure will be fatal to someone in the near future. I was lucky and was only traveling at about 5mph and was able to stop the vehicle on the curb. Please advise INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Aug 10, 2023
Brakes died in may, 2022 and it took the dealer to September to inspect as it was part of recall. They told me they had to order the part so i called every 3 weeks to see if it came in. In december they said they need to inspect to see if it is covered. Again they inspected and said yes it is and we need to order the part (this is Crown Eurocar Mercedes in St Petersburg). At the same time I called Mercedes USA (they gave me a case number 2-37306691522). They picked up the car in December and since then it has been the same run around. THEY ARE NOT ATTEMPTING TO FIX THE PROBLEM. I am begging your department to help in this matter.
Mar 08, 2023
+ 3 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated that the dealer performed NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the failure occurred after the recall was performed. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she had to stand up in her seat while depressing the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The brake warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with brake booster failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 193,044.
Oct 11, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 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. Parts distribution disconnect.
Oct 04, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and contacted the dealer. The dealer advised the contact not to drive the vehicle. The dealer inspected the vehicle at the residence. In the process of conducting the inspection, the dealer damaged the brake line and informed the contact the vehicle had failed the test. The vehicle was no longer drivable and was towed to the dealer where the brake line was replaced. The dealer then advised the contact that she could pick up the vehicle; however, they could not confirm that the vehicle was safe to drive. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact notified the manufacturer of the issue and inquired about a possible loaner. The manufacturer provided no assistance. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Sep 21, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH and approaching a stop sign, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. There brake warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven to a local mechanic who diagnosed that the failure was caused by a corroded brake booster. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics). The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
May 25, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
May 20, 2022
ENGINE
3 complaints
an Exhaust recycle hose cracked; causing cabin to fill with carbon dioxide. Driver, (me) became disorented.. ran off right shoulder, ran into center divider cement, before rearending truck. Engine light later came on indicating (HVOC?) ERROR Mechanic was able to locate leak and repair. Vehicle now performing properly. A DEFECT THAT ALLOWS CARBON DIOXIDE INTO THE PASSENGER CABIN, IS A SERIOUS AND LIFE THREATENING SITUATION.
Jun 12, 2024
OIL COOLER LEAK.
Apr 29, 2019
I HAVE A MERCEDES BENZ ML- 350 YEAR 2011. THE VEHICLE HAS A LITTLE OVER 60,00 THOUSAND MILES. THE ENGINE LIGHT FROM MY DASH BOARD STARTED COMING ON. I BROUGHT THE CAR IN TO THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIP FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE TEST RESULTS INDICATED THERE'S A PROBLEM WITH THE BALANCE SHAFT. THE REPAIR QUOTE I RECEIVED WAS $9,300.00. THIS IS QUITE ABSURD ... TO SAY THE LEAST ! AS I RESEARCHED THIS ISSUE REGARDING THE BALANCE SHAFT THIS HAS BEEN AN OCCURRING PROBLEM IN THE ML- 350 AND C CLASS MODELS SUCH AS THE C 220. (V6 272 ENGINE) THERE ARE NOTED CLASS ACTION SUITE'S GOING BACK TO THE ML- 350 2006 UP TO THE ML-350 2010. THE MERCEDES BENZ CORPORATION HAS SHOWED ONLY RELUCTANCE IN REPAIRING THIS PREVALENT PROBLEM. THERE POSITION AS STATED THIS ISSUE WAS RECTIFIED FROM THE 2010 RECALL. OBVIOUSLY THE PROBLEM WITH THE BALANCE SHAFT IN THIS ML - 350 MODEL HAS NOT BEEN RESOLVED. MY NEXT STEP IS TO APPROACH THE MERCEDES BENZ CORPORATION AGAIN FOR A FINAL DECISION IN RESOLVING THIS ISSUE. IF THEY DON'T TAKE THE RESPONSIBILITY IN STANDING BEHIND THERE PRODUCT AND KEEPING THEIR REPUTATION IN GOOD STANDING I HAVE NO OTHER CHOICE BUT TO PURSUE THIS AS A LEGAL MATTER...
Aug 28, 2016
SEATS
3 complaints
I TURNED ON THE HEATED DRIVER SIDE AND IT COUGHT FIRE I GOT BURNED TRYING TO SHUT THE FIRE OFF
Dec 04, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT ACTIVATED THE SEAT WARMER FOR THE FRONT DRIVER'S SEAT AND NOTICED THAT THE BACK OF THE SEAT WAS OVERHEATING. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE SEAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT WARMER BURNED A HOLE IN THE SEAT. WHEN THE WARMER WAS TURNED OFF, THE SMOKE AND BURNING FAILURE CEASED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT NEEDED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A SLIGHT BURN TO THE LOWER BACK, WHICH DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT CALLED JAMES MOTOR COMPANY (LOCATED AT 2440 RICHMOND RD, LEXINGTON, KY 40502, 877-883-1006) AND WAS ADVISED NOT TO USE THE SEAT WARMER AND HAVE THE VEHICLE INSPECTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: ID1/0H0BJ0. THE MANUFACTURER ALSO ASKED THE CONTACT TO SIGN A WAIVER TO REPLACE THE PART OF THE SEAT THAT HAD BURNED; HOWEVER, THE MATTER HAD NOT YET BEEN RESOLVED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 77,000. *LN*JB CONSUMER STATED DID RECEIVE A TELEPHONE CALL THAT EXPLAINED IF I SIGNED OFF ON ANY FUTURE LAWSUIT THEY WOULD REPAIR THE PORTION OF THE SEAT THAT CAUGHT FIRE. I HAVE NOT HEARD FROM THEM SINCE. I HAVE LEFT SEVERAL PHONE CALLS.*JB *LN*JB
Oct 21, 2019
PASSANGER SEAT WITH SEAT HEAT ON CAUSED BURNT DAMAGE OF LEATHER UPHOLSTEREY IN LOWER LEFT PART OF THE BACK REST ACCOMPANY WITH SMOKE/FUMES. THE DAMAGED AREA IS ABOUT 2" LONG. 2011 ML350 WITH 27KMILES
Nov 14, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
REAR BRAKE LIGHT GROUND OVERHEATED AND CAUSED FIRE DAMAGING WIRE HARNESS AND LIGHT ASSEMBLY DURING DRIVING. ALL TAIL LIGHTS AFFECTED.
Mar 25, 2021
YESTERDAY, I WAS DRIVING OUR 2011 MERCEDES ML550 ON A CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY, AND SUDDENLY LOST MY BRAKE LIGHTS, TURN SIGNAL LIGHTS AND REVERSE LIGHTS, DUE TO A RODENT EATING THE WIRING OF THE CAR. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS YEAR A RODENT HAS EATEN THE WIRING OF THIS CAR. 4 MONTHS AGO A RODENT ATE THE MAIN WIRING LOOM AND THE REPAIR COST $1000. WE HAVE OWNED 5 DIFFERENT MERCEDES BENZ MODELS OVER THE LAST 7 YEARS. THE WIRING FOR EACH OF THESE CARS HAS BEEN EATEN BY RODENTS MORE THAN ONCE AND CAUSED US THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF DAMAGE (OBVIOUSLY NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY). IN MOST CASES THE CARS WERE GARAGED. THE CARS WERE PARKED IN VARIOUS PLACES AROUND THE COUNTRY, INCLUDING LOCATIONS WHERE NO ONE ELSE WITH OTHER BRAND CARS HAS HAD RODENT DAMAGE. EVERY TIME WE BRING THE CARS IN TO BE REPAIRED THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIPS TELLS US "2 OTHER PEOPLE HAVE BROUGHT THEIR MERCEDES IN TODAY WITH RODENT DAMAGE". I HEAR FROM ONE OF THE MB REPAIRMEN MERCEDES HAS CHOSEN TO USE A MATERIAL FOR THE INSULATION OF THEIR WIRING THAT IS ATTRACTIVE TO RODENTS. LOSING MY LIGHTING ON A HIGHWAY IS A SAFETY ISSUE FOR ME. BEING STUCK RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYING FOR REPAIRS THAT MAY BE CAUSED BY A MATERIAL CHOICE MB HAS MADE SEEMS UNFAIR. *KB
Aug 02, 2011
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaints
THE BACK GATE LIGHTS ON ML350 STOPPED WORKING. ACCORDING TO MERCEDES DEALERSHIP, THE BACK LIGHT(BRAKE LIGHTS) ASSEMBLIES ARE ALL CORRODED AND NEED TO BE REPLACED. I ASKED HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE AND THEY STATED THAT THEY DIDN'T KNOW AND THAT THERE WAS NO WATER DAMAGE. I HAVE ALSO HAD FRONT LIGHT ISSUES AS WELL, WITH BULBS BURNING OUT FREQUENTLY. THE LIGHT ASSEMBLY WIRING IS DEFECTIVE. MERCEDES DEALERSHIP IS HAVING ME PAY TO REPLACE THE LIGHT ASSEMBLIES EVEN THOUGH THIS MUST BE SOME SORT OF DEFECT.
Jan 09, 2020
REAR LEFT BRAKE LIGHT KEEP FAILING, THE BULB IS FINE. HAVE TO TAKE OUT SOCKET AND PUT IT BACK IN, THIS KEEPS HAPPENING OVER AND OVER. WAS TOLD THE HOLE LIGHT ASSEMBLY NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. NO ONE CAN SEEM TO SAY WHY THIS KEEP HAPPENING. THIS CAN HAPPEN AT ANY TIME IN MOTION, ON THE HIGHWAY, TURNING.
Mar 09, 2016
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
TAKATA RECALL. WHEN WE WERE READY TO TRADE OUR VEHICLE, THE DEALER TOOK ABOUT $6000 OFF OF IT'S TRADE IN VALUE BECAUSE IT HAD A TAKATA AIR BAG IN IT AND A REPLACEMENT BAG WAS UNAVAILABLE TO REMEDY THE ISSUE. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO PUT THE VEHICLE ON THEIR LOT, IT HAD TO BE SOLD AT AUCTION. I FEEL WE SHOULD BE REIMBURSED THIS FINANCIAL LOSS WE SUFFERED DUE TO TAKATA'S INFERIOR PRODUCT.
Dec 23, 2016
FUEL LINE TEAR CAUSING ME TO LOSE CONTROL. WHEN STOPPED FUEL WAS RUNNING FROM UNDER MY VEHICLE, COVERED MOTOR AND ALL OVER CAR. LUCKILY IT IS A BLUE TEC MERCEDE NOT A GAS. VERY FRIGHTENING. DRIVING 55 MILES PER HOUR HIGHWAY. NO SMELL THAT I REMEMBER, JUST LOSS OF CONTROL STEERING. I THOUGHT IT WAS A POWER STEERING PROBLEM.
Jul 15, 2016
POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
REFERENCE: SEIFI VS MERCEDES-BENZ. I HAVE 66,000 MILES ON MY CAR. THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON WHILE DRIVING, WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP, I WAS TOLD PART WAS DEFECTIVE. HAS CODE1200, 12007 FOR BALANCE SHAFT. MERCEDES HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM JUST SETTLED FOR 2005-2007 MODEL.
Jan 27, 2016
WITH THE GEAR SELECTOR IN PARK AND THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT SEAT OCCUPIED, THE VEHICLE ROLLED BACKWARDS FROM A 4.4 PERCENT GRADE AND OVERTURNED AS IT PROCEEDED DOWNHILL. INSPECTION OF THE TRANSMISSION PARKING GEAR REVEALED THAT THE PARKING PAWL HAD BEEN ACTIVATED BUT DID NOT ENGAGE A PARKING GEAR SLOT. THIS INCIDENT WAS ATTRIBUTED TO EXCESSIVE ANGLE ON THE PARKING GEAR SLOT SIDES, AN UNDERPOWERED PRESSURE SPRING IN THE PARK INTERLOCK MECHANISM, OR A COMBINATION OF BOTH OF THESE CONDITIONS. THESE CONDITIONS PERMITTED THE PARKING PAWL TO BE REJECTED FROM THE PARKING GEAR SLOTS AT SPEEDS WELL BELOW THE PARK PAWL ENGAGEMENT (TARGET) SPEED OF 6 KPH (3.7 MPH), AS DEFINED BY SAE SPECIFICATION J2208. A SERIES OF SUCH REJECTIONS WHILE THE DRIVERS SEAT IS UNOCCUPIED POSES A SAFETY HAZARD BY ALLOWING THE VEHICLE TO CONTINUE TO ROLL IN AN UNCONTROLLED MANNER ON CERTAIN SLOPES WHILE THE GEAR SELECTOR IS IN PARK. A MORE DETAILED ANALYSIS OF THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN PREPARED AND SHARED WITH MERCEDES-BENZ. PLEASE CONTACT ME TO OBTAIN THIS ANALYSIS AND THE RELATED RESPONSE FROM MERCEDES-BENZ REPRESENTATIVES.
Jul 06, 2015
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
My vehicle jerks back and forth at low acceleration, and it often goes into limp mode which makes the vehicle only drive at around 20 mph at most. I was on the highway, when this happened. I have a 722.9 transmission, and this is a common problem. Why is the snapping recalled? I have had a checked with Mercedes-Benz of music City when I had gotten my recall work done, and they said that it just needs a whole new transmission. They said that they had never seen an issue like this. They want $16,000. I have been reading and reading and reading I don't know how they have not seen the issue when it's very very common. Again my question is, why has this not been recalled? There are soldering issues for a speed solenoid sensor, and the TCU it makes it go bad. What is going on, and why has this issue not been addressed? I have two toddlers that I drive in my vehicle every single day. God forbid we're not so lucky next time. The only reason why we did not get hit this time, is because we were on the highway at a slow hour of the day. My son is disabled and we are on the highway and in the car a whole lot. If this happens during rush hour, we will be no doubt smacked into by another vehicle.
Apr 24, 2024
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
The contact owned a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to respond. As a result, the contact crashed into a tree. The air bags deployed. A police report was filed. The driver sustained an injury where the glass scratched her face. The doctors prescribed pain medicine No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed a lot where it was deemed totaled. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Oct 04, 2023
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the vehicle also stalled while driving in traffic. There were no warning lights illuminated. The message to remove-the-key was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V315000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The dealer notified the contact of a diagnostic test and the cost for the diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Oct 03, 2023
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the contact noticed that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the message indicating an EVAP leak was displayed. The contact checked and noticed that there was a leak underneath the vehicle coming from the fuel tank. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 114,000.
Feb 28, 2023
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I DO NOT KNOW WHERE IS THE EXACLY PROBLEMS WITH THE RECALL FROM THE NHTSA
Jun 16, 2022
STRUCTURE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350. The contact stated that roof fabric had begun to detach from the vehicle. Over time, the fabric started to obstruct the contact's vision out of the rear windshield. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer where she was given an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and they offered to cover a nominal part of the cost of the repair. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. The VIN was not available.
Oct 20, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
I PUT MY KEY INTO THE IGNITION AND IT WOULD NOT START. I HAD A TOW TRUCK TO COME AND GET MY VEHICLE AND THEY CHARGED THE VEHICLE AND WOULD NOT GO INTO NEUTRAL OR DRIVE. I KNOW THAT I PROBABLY NEED A NEW BATTERY BUT THIS WAS SCARY.
Mar 12, 2020
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A STOP, THE ENGINE JERKED AND THE VEHICLE LOST ACCELERATION. ALSO, THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE ENGINE AND WAS ABLE TO REGAIN ACCELERATION. ON ONE OCCASION, WHILE EXITING TRAFFIC AT 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST ACCELERATION. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS SHUT OFF AND RESTARTED, THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO REGAIN ACCELERATION AND DROVE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS "SLEEPING". THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000.
Apr 09, 2019
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHEN CAR COMES TO A STOP, AND THE DRIVER PUSHES THE BUTTON TO PUT THE CAR IN "PARK", THE CAR DOES NOT GO INTO PARK, BUT STAYS IN "DRIVE" OR "REVERSE". DRIVER LEAVES CAR, AND BECAUSE DRIVER IS UNAWARE THAT THE VEHICLE REMAINS IN "DRIVE", AND DID NOT SWITCH TO "PARK", THE CAR CAN BEGIN TO IDLE FORWARD WHILE DRIVER LEAVES OR HAS LEFT THE VEHICLE, OR IDLES IN REVERSE, AS DRIVER LEAVES OR HAS LEFT THE VEHICLE, AS THE "PARK" POSITION IS NOT ACTIVATED. THIS CAN BE QUITE DANGEROUS TO THE DRIVER, OR TO PASSENGERS OR PEDESTRIANS. AT TIMES, THE CAR DOES GO INTO "PARK", BUT AT OTHER TIMES, IT DOES NOT, IT STAYS IN "DRIVE" OR "REVERSE", MISINFORMING THE DRIVER. THIS IS AN UNSAFE SITUATION.
Mar 04, 2019
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V081000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT CALLED THE DEALER (MERCEDES-BENZ OF BAKERSFIELD, 5600 GASOLINE ALLEY DR, BAKERSFIELD, CA 93313, (661) 451-1400) EVERY THIRTY DAYS TO DETERMINE WHEN THE PARTS WOULD BE SUPPLIED FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE DEALER DID NOT KNOW WHEN THE PARTS WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS IDENTICAL TO WHAT WAS LISTED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12E028000 (EQUIPMENT). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WOULD BECOME STUCK AND WOULD NOT RELEASE PROPERLY WHEN NECESSARY; HOWEVER, IT WAS NOT THE FLOOR MAT THAT CAUSED THE FAILURE, AS NOTED IN THE RECALL CAMPAIGN. WHILE EXITING A CAR WASH TERMINAL, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL FAILED TO RELEASE. THE CONTACT MANEUVERED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE WALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED CHEST PAINS, PAINS TO THE BREASTS, A BRUISED MOUTH THAT WAS BLEEDING, AND A HEAD INJURY. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE INSURANCE COMPANY WAS NOTIFIED OF THE CRASH. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. *TT*JB
Oct 15, 2018
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. IN ADDITION, THE SRS AND ABS WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED, AND THE SIDE VIEW AND BLIND SIDE INDICATORS WERE INOPERABLE. THE GEAR SHIFTER FAILED TO ENGAGE IN THE PARK POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A FRIEND'S RESIDENCE. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 95,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Jun 18, 2018
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED TO THE FLOORBOARD, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO PROPERLY DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS EVENTUALLY TOWED TO THE LOCAL MERCEDES DEALER (JAMES MOTOR COMPANY (2440 RICHMOND RD, LEXINGTON, KY 40502, (859) 268-1150). THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Sep 14, 2017
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
I WAS IN A CAR ACCIDENT IN MARCH 2016 AND IT WAS A FRONT END COLLISION. I ALMOST WENT THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD HOWEVER MY SEAT BELT DIDN'T STOP ME OR LOCK IN PLACE AT ALL. I ALSO CONTACTED MERCEDES IN APRIL 2016 ABOUT MY DRIVER AIRBAG THAT WAS RECALLED DUE TO SAFETY CONCERNS AND I STILL HAVEN'T BEEN CONTACTED FOR A RESOLUTION AS I HAVE REACHED OUT TO THEM MULTIPLE TIMES FOR OPTIONS BECAUSE IT'S UNSAFE TO DRIVE MY VEHICLE
May 23, 2017
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
DEF/ADBLUE HEATER FAILURE. IT APPEARS IT IS COMMON FOR THE DEF/ADBLUE HEATER TO FAIL. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY MERCEDES SERVICE THAT THEY REDESIGNED THE HEATER BECAUSE OF THE COMMON FAILURE OF THIS PART BUT THEY ARE NOT REPLACING THEM AS A RECALL. (SAME PROBLEM WITH VW WHICH IN NOW COVERED)
Nov 30, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
TAKATA RECALL MERCEDES BENZ NOTIFIED BY USPS SAFETY RECALL 03/16.NO FURTHER CORRESPONDENCE OR OTHER ACTION/S TO INDICATE RECTIFY OF SAFETY RECALL SINCE. MERCEDES HOUSTON NORTH DEALERSHIP VISIT 10/29/16 AT WHICH I PURCHASED REFUSES VEHICLE RETURN IN LIGHT OF INDICATED AIRBAG RECALL, STATING I CANNOT SIMPLY RETURN THE VEHICLE.SALES REP INDICATES SUCH VEHICLES ARE TAKEN AS TRADE-IN AND/OR SOLD TO COMPETING DEALERS LIKE CARMAX WHICH PAYS HIGHER FOR UNWANTED/UNSAFE VEHICLES, BUT OFFERS AN ASSURANCE TO ASSUAGE MY SAFETY CONCERN THAT MERCEDES ARE MORE STRUCTURALLY SOUND THAN OTHER MANUFACTURERS, NAMELY HONDA IN WHICH DRIVERS/PASSENGERS DIED FROM TAKATA AIRBAG DEPLOYMENTS.REP FURTHER STATES AIRBAG REPLACEMENT UNLIKELY SINCE TAKATA IS BEHIND IN MANUFACTURING DUE TO TSNUMAI;PROCESSING NEW WORK AS PRIORITY TO SAFETY RECALL/REWORKS.UNABLE TO SELL/TRANSFER VEHICLE DUE TO RECALL/ILLEGALITY; WOULD NOT ANYWAY DUE TO SAFETY HAZARD WHICH NOT ONLY ENDANGERS, BUT KILLS, OTHERS.1-WK AFTER BUY,LEFT&RIGHT FRNT PRKNG LIGHTS MALFUNCTION.MERCEDES REPLACED/REPAIRED FUSE UPON NEW WIRINGHARNESS INSTALL UNDER EXT SVC PLAN.SAME LEFT&RIGHT FRNT PRKG INDICATOR MALFUNCTION W/IN 45DAYS AFTER;REPLACED OEM-BULBS BLEW.LEFT HEADLIGHT REPLACED-OEM BLEW.AUG/SEPT 2014 45K-MILE REQD MAINT, DEALER SVC ADVISOR SAID HEAD&PRKG LIGHT BULBS WRONG TYPE,RESTATE FIXED WIRINGHARNESS STILL ROOT.HEAD&PRKG LIGHTS FIXED W/OUT FURTHER WIRINGHARNESS MENTION.NEW CARBATTERY INSTALL DEC/JAN 2015 60K-MILE REQD MAINT REPORT TO DEALER SVC ADVISOR ELECTRONICKEY FAIL TO UNLOCK DOORS&ENGAGE IGNITION DESPITE NEW BATTERIES.ALL 2015 AND CONTINUING, LEFT&RIGHT FRONT BULBS,LEFT HEAD&TAILLIGHT OUTAGES, SPONTANEOUS ESPFAULTS ON DASH MALFUNCTION;IGNITION DELAYED-START W/OUT DASH WARNING IN PARK/REAR/NEUTRAL/DRIVE POSITION OR AT START/SHUTDOWN. PURCHASED 04/17/14 CERT PREOWN W/ EXT SVC PLAN ~36KMILES 10/29/16 ~103KMILES ESP EXPIRED 100KMILES
Oct 30, 2016
VISIBILITY
1 complaint
DRIVING ON A FEEDER ROAD IN LIGHT TRAFFIC AT ABOUT 55 MPH, WE WERE STARTLED BY AN ENORMOUS LOUD EXPLOSIVE SOUND ON OUR SUNROOF OF THE ML 550, LIKE A BOMB SOUND. PULLED OVER AND SLID THE INSIDE VENTED HEADLINER/CURTAIN BACK ABOUT 6 INCHES AND SAW A HOLE THE SIZE OF TWO FISTS PLUS SHATTERED GLASS. WE RECALL THAT WE WEREN'T FOLLOWING BEHIND ANY TRUCKS. MERCEDES DEALERSHIP ESTIMATED $2,777.00 TO REPLACE GLASS, DROP HEADLINER AND REMOVE BROKEN GLASS SHARDS/PIECE. MB DID NOT OFFER ANY EXPLANATION AS TO DEFECTIVE SUNROOF GLASS. WE OWNED NUMEROUS MODELS OF MERCEDES WITH SUNROOFS AND NEVER EXPERIENCED SUCH A FRIGHTENING EPISODE. *TR
Dec 23, 2014
STEERING,WHEELS
1 complaint
THE CAR WOULD MAKE LOUD NOISES EVEN AT A SMALL SPEED, SERVICE MGR AT SMYTHE TOLD ME THAT MB HAD THIS DEFECT AND HE STATED HE PUT LOCTITE 648 PER MY NOTES O 8/24./2012 AT 9N WHEEL BEARING(S)! MB SHOULD NOT HAVE SUCH A PROBLEM. MY PREVIOUS ML 500 ALSO HAD A STEERING PROBLEM AND MB NEVER NOTIFIED US BUT FIXED IT AFTER THE WARRANTY AS THEY KNEW ABOUT IT ACCORDING TO SMYTHE SVC MGR. I THINK MB MUST BE PROACTIVE IN RECTIFYING SUCH PROBLEMS AS WE DO NOT WANT THEM TO CAUSE PROBLEMS AFTER THE WARRANTY EXP.! [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Sep 07, 2014
TIRES
1 complaint
2011 MERCEDES BENZ ML 350. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO RUN FLAT TIRES ISSUES *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED HE EXPERIENCED THREE FLAT TIRES WITHIN THE FIRST 13,000 MILES. TWO REQUIRED EXPENSIVE REPLACEMENT, ONE WITH A 24 HOUR TRIP DELAY. THE CONSUMER STATED THE LITERATURE FROM MERCEDES BENZ STATED THE RUN FLAT TIRES COULD ONLY BE DRIVEN 50 MILES LOADED AND ONLY 18 MILES UNLOADED.
Aug 09, 2012
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
THE CAR WAS ON AN INCLINE IN MY DRIVEWAY. IT HAS THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER ON THE COLUMN, AND I HAD BEEN BACKING DOWN THE DRIVEWAY. I STOPPED PLACED THE CAR IN PARK AND GOT OUT WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING TO MOVE SOMETHING. THE CAR SAT IN PLACE FOR APPROXIMATELY 10 SECONDS AND THEN SPONTANEOUSLY TOOK OFF AT APPROXIMATELY 5MILES/HOUR. FORTUNATELY MY DAUGHTER WAS STANDING ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE CAR IN FRONT AND SAW THE CAR ROLLING FORWARD, JUMPED IN AND HIT THE BRAKES JUST AS THE CAR STRUCK ONE OF OTHER CARS ON THE DRIVEWAY. THE SHIFT LEVER WAS READING THE DRIVE POSITION, EVEN HAD I NOT PLACED THE CAR IN PARK, IT WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN IN DRIVE BUT REVERSE AS I HAD BEEN PROCEEDING DOWN THE DRIVEWAY. *TR
May 13, 2012
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class have?
The 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class currently has 115 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 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class?
The most common problems reported for the 2011 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 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ ML-Class problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2011 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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