The second-generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class replaced the first-born in the spring of 2005. Engineers from Stuttgart have done a great job of creating a new crossover. The car received advanced and sophisticated technical solutions that turned into a headache for the owners of the second generation ML. The W164 was assembled at the assembly line of the Tuscaloosa plant, Alabama, USA. In March 2008, a restyled version of the M-class went on sale.
Engines
The first production MLs of the second generation were equipped with a gasoline V6 - M272 with a displacement of 3.5 liters and a power of 272 hp. (ML350), V8 - M113 5.0 l / 308 hp (ML500) and diesel V6 OM642: 3.0 l recoil 190 hp (ML280 CDI) and 224 hp (ML320 CDI). In 2006, the V8 OM629 diluted the line of diesel engines with a working volume of 4.0 liters 306 hp. And in June 2007, the flagship V8 M113 was replaced by the M273 with a power of 388 hp. (ML500 and ML550). In 2009, there was a marketing castling: the ML320 CDI model was removed from sale, and instead the ML300 CDI (190 and 204 hp) and ML350 CDI (224 hp) appeared with the same 3-liter V6 OM642.
The most widely used gasoline modifications are the ML350. The first M272 power units turned out to have significant design flaws, which were corrected at the end of 2007. So, with a run of more than 80-100 thousand km, "diesel" could appear, and later "Check Engine" would light up. Reason: wear of the balance shaft sprockets. To replace it, it is necessary to remove the engine, which is why repairs are significantly more expensive. In addition, it is necessary to change the timing chain, the tensioner with dampers and the camshaft magnets, since the chain often stretches to 100-150 thousand km, and the magnets of the camshaft position adjustment mechanism begin to “strange”. Experts recommend changing the oil pump, although there are no problems with it. For repairs in the official service, they will ask about 150-160 thousand rubles, along with spare parts. Independent selection of spare parts and replacement in a regular service will cost almost 2 times cheaper - about 80-100 thousand rubles. After finalizing the problem node, the costly trouble began to occur much less frequently. Exactly the same problem is inherent in the 273rd V8 engine. True, there, to replace the balance shaft, the removal of the engine is not required, which simplifies and reduces the cost of repairs.
With a run of more than 100-150 thousand km, some ML350 owners are faced with the need to replace the intake manifold due to problems with the vacuum damper valves. The cost of the collector is about 40,000 rubles. The node was finalized in 2007.
Plastic plugs of the engine block head begin to "poison" the oil after 40-60 thousand km. There is also oil leakage at the junction of the filter housing and the oil cooler heat exchanger - due to a leaky seal.
Diesel engines of the OM642 series pre-styling Mercedes ML suffer from a defect in the exhaust manifold. Pieces of the inner shell of the collector or welds break off and fall into the turbine. The result is serious damage to the blades and shaft of the turbine, as well as the mechanism for changing the geometry. It will take about 70-90 thousand rubles to replace two collectors. The turbine itself is tenacious, and with proper care, it easily takes care of more than 200-300 thousand km.
Transmission
All Mercedes ML engines were paired with a 7G-Tronic 722.9 automatic transmission. According to the established tradition, the "automatic" pre-styling ML W164 also had a number of problems, some of which were resolved in 2007. The electro-hydraulic control unit often "departed to another world" after 100,000 km. For a new block, you will have to pay about 60-100 thousand rubles. Problems with the valve body in some cases were caused by the failure of 2 speed sensors. Some services restored the valve body by soldering these sensors. Another common problem with a run of more than 100,000 km is the “welding” of the bushing, and the destruction of the gearbox oil pump gears, which in turn led to scoring in the housing. Less often, problems arise with the gearshift control unit (25-30 thousand rubles).
Shocks when starting, stopping or switching are the “sore” of most second-generation Mercedes MLs. Changing the software of the gearbox and engine control unit helps to cure the disease, followed by synchronization of the blocks. The cost of such a procedure is about 6-8 thousand rubles.
From time to time there are cases of failure of the front axle gearbox. The cost of its restoration is about 40,000 rubles. Less often, it becomes necessary to replace the front driveshaft. We also have to deal with the wear of the transfer case chain, which will be indicated by cod and rattle under load. The cost of the chain is about 5-6 thousand rubles, and the work to replace it is about 2-3 thousand rubles. If the razdatka buzzes, then about 40-45 thousand rubles will have to be paid for its bulkhead.
Chassis
Racks and bushings of the anti-roll bar serve about 60-80 thousand km. In the front lower arms, the weak point is the rear silent block. Replacement of the lever is provided only in the assembly. The cost of the original lever is about 22-24 thousand rubles, the analogue is from 2 to 8 thousand rubles. After 50-70 thousand km, the rear ball joints often begin to creak, while they themselves do not show signs of wear. An attempt to drive grease under the ball boot with a syringe rarely succeeds, the ball will have to be replaced. The cost of the original ball is about 10-16 thousand rubles, the analogue is about 2-4 thousand rubles. Shock absorbers of a conventional spring suspension go more than 100-150 thousand km. Wheel bearings also live that long: 8-10 thousand rubles plus 1.5-2 thousand rubles for a replacement.
The air springs of the AirMatic air suspension do not differ in durability - the resource is in the region of 80-120 thousand km. The cost of a new original air spring in specialized services is about 60-70 thousand rubles for the front, and 30-40 thousand rubles for the rear. Analogues are cheaper: about 20 thousand rubles and 11 thousand rubles, respectively. For many, over time, knocks appear in the right front of the air suspension, which disappear when the Sport mode is turned on. Often knocks do not go away even after replacing the air strut. To get rid of extraneous sounds often helps the banal broach of the bolts of the suspension arms or the nuts of the shock absorber rod to the upper strut support. If the knocks remain, then the whole thing is in the AirMatic suspension control unit (about 30,000 rubles).
Over time, the steering ML begins to knock. In most cases, the cause lies in the wear of the outboard bearing or steering cardan. The cost of eliminating the cause in an ordinary car service is low, about 4-7 thousand rubles, in authorized services it is more expensive - about 15 thousand rubles. With a run of more than 100-150 thousand km, sometimes there are problems with the steering rack. The cost of a new rail for officials is about 110-160 thousand rubles. There are also cases of failure of the power steering pump on pre-styling copies. The cost of a new original pump is about 30,000 rubles, an analogue is about 10,000 rubles.
Body and interior
The body of the Mercedes ML, in the best traditions of German quality, has a good paintwork and is not prone to corrosion. A chrome package, on the other hand, can bloom in just a few winters. Mirror elements and LED daytime running lights are often the prey of "car robbers".
There are cases of skew of the tailgate due to the destruction of the screws holding the door hinge. At the same time, when driving through irregularities, a roar appears. After 100,000 km, problems arise with the fifth door lock due to a breakdown of the mechanism or software “glitches”. In winter, the key to open the tailgate often sticks.
There are frequent problems with door locks, aggravated in winter. Preventive measures, such as lubricating moving parts, help to slightly extend the life of the lock. Often, the closing of the door lock is prevented by a breaking and flying rubber band, inside which the lock rod runs. The cost of a new gum is about 1,000 rubles. Another equally common reason: the destruction of the spring in the lock. A repair kit is available to replace broken springs. In extreme cases, you have to change the lock itself. Official services ask for a new lock about 15 thousand rubles and 5 thousand rubles for work. Additional problems are added by the Keyless Go keyless entry system. Due to the loss of tightness of the special coating on the inside of the handle, moisture gets inside and the electrical contacts are oxidized, which leads to failures. The cost of a new pen is about 4-5 thousand rubles.
Over time, the seals of the rear lights lose their tightness, which contributes to the ingress of moisture into the trunk. In the right niche there is a rear block SAM, which water procedures are contraindicated. The electrical board oxidizes, and all kinds of "glitches" of electricians appear. The cost of the new unit is about 20 thousand rubles.
Salon ML is assembled from high-quality materials, and therefore crickets are very rare here. Exception: luggage cover and rear seat backrest. On some instances, there is abrasion of the leather of the steering wheel. Under the mats, in the legs, there are electronic control units for various systems. Often in winter, melted snow from the rugs falls on the floor and further into blocks that are not airtight. Electrical boards oxidize and numerous problems appear. The cost of a new block is about 20,000 rubles.
Problems with the correct functioning of the air conditioning system are associated with “glitches” in the software of the KLA control unit. After the update, the climate performance is restored. Less often you have to change the block itself - about 46-50 thousand rubles.
Conclusion
Mercedes-Benz ML W164 actually proved to be a little more reliable than its predecessor. It is gratifying that the manufacturer tried to solve design flaws in individual units and assemblies. Unfortunately, a lot of problems arise with the electrician. And the cost of individual parts and work exceeds all reasonable limits.
Mercedes-Benz ML 2005–2011
Mercedes-Benz ML 2005–2011
The second generation Mercedes-Benz ML (W164) appeared at the beginning of 2005, replacing the model with index 163 on the assembly line. Instead of a frame structure, the car tried on a load-bearing body, in the suspension the torsion bars gave way to a spring two-lever front and a four-lever rear, and the wheelbase increased from 2820 to 2915 mm. And the standard one is, in fact, a crossover. It has permanent all-wheel drive, and the 4-ETS (Four Electronic Traction Support) system, like in the previous M-class, slows down spinning wheels. However, an off-road Pro Off-Road package was offered for the ML, including air suspension, a 2-speed transfer case, and center and rear differential locks. With such an arsenal, he becomes a professional "rogue".
The geography of Mercedes-Benz ML is wide: there are both dealer cars and copies brought from America and Europe on the market. And any of the options can be safely considered as a purchase.
Engine
At first, the Mercedes-Benz ML was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 petrol (272 hp) and a 5-liter V8 (306 hp). Turbodiesels were represented by a 3.0-liter V6 (190 and 224 hp) and a 4-liter V8 (306 hp). After restyling, the petrol V8 increased in volume to 5.5 liters (388 hp).
The base V6 3.5 l (M272) is the most massive and most problematic. Chronic sore - premature wear of the ceramic-metal gear (4200 rubles) that drives the balance shaft. Because of this, not only did the gas distribution phases “leave”, but the chips also got into the oil pump (7500 rubles), disabling it. Repairs are made with the removal of the engine and are expensive - from 70,000 rubles. At the same time, the service will probably offer to replace the valve timing adjustment clutches (21,000 rubles) and the timing chain. Be sure to agree - they will not live long either.
At the same time, on a run of 50-80 thousand km, the plastic swirl flaps of the intake manifold jammed, because of which it was necessary to change it entirely (29,000 rubles). Note that on post-styling machines, these shortcomings have already been eliminated.
But the old V8 of the E113 series, inherited from its predecessor, is simply unkillable. What can not be said about its 5.5-liter successor - for 50-90 thousand km you have to update the balance shaft, the replacement of which is no more expensive than that of the V6, since the engine is not dismantled for this.
The common rail diesel is generally reliable. Early cars to 150 thousand km sinned with exhaust manifold wear. Apparently, the material of this unit was chosen incorrectly and the metal from its inner surface “crumbled”, and the wear products, getting into the turbine, “killed” it. It's a shame - after all, under normal conditions, the resource of the Garret turbocharger (from 128,000 rubles) is 350 thousand km. Glow plugs must be changed carefully - due to the “sticking” of the thread, the head of the block can be damaged.
Transmission
Buyers of Mercedes-Benz ML will not have to bother with the choice of gearbox - all cars come with a 7-speed "automatic". The valve body often caused trouble, the solenoids of the control valves (4500 rubles each) of which failed by 100 thousand km. The box began to twitch and stutter during acceleration. If the disease is started, then soon the clutch pack will also “infect”. After 150 thousand, the oil pump is usually surrendered (15,000 rubles), the “automatic” selector refuses to switch, the electronic control unit ECM does not withstand the heat test (30,000 rubles). But all these defects, except for one - leaks in the cooling tubes of the "machine" - were eliminated after restyling.
The Pro Off-Road transmission is durable. The transfer case, as well as the "automatic", usually withstands 200 thousand km. Sometimes, before this period, the chain is stretched (9500 rubles) and the bearings begin to buzz. However, the soundtrack can also come from an outboard bearing, which dealers change along with the driveshaft (40,000 rubles). In specialized technical centers, the bearing can be replaced separately for 6500 rubles. After 150 thousand km, you have to change the front gearbox (43,000 rubles), the imminent death of which will be announced by hum and vibration.
Chassis and body
The spring suspension of the standard Mercedes-Benz ML is as strong as tank armor. The first in the front suspension for 60–90 thousand km are the stabilizer struts (1,500 rubles each). And only to 120-150 thousand km comes the turn of shock absorbers (10,800 rubles each) and lower levers (3,500 rubles each), which become unusable due to the wear of their silent blocks. Rear suspension elements are even more reliable and last one and a half times longer on average. The only exceptions are shock absorbers (8500 rubles each), nursing an average of 100-130 thousand km.
In steering, after 100 thousand km, traction is changed (2300 rubles each). The rail takes care of 200 thousand km, but it can begin to leak much earlier than this period - it is eliminated by installing oil seals and seals from the repair kit (from 1000 rubles). And if it starts to tap, first of all check the steering shaft cardan (8000 rubles). But the power steering pumps (22,000 rubles) at first often changed under warranty. When replacing, it is advisable to update the tank, the filter mesh of which quickly clogs.
Airmatic air suspension is more finicky and expensive. Pneumocylinders rarely withstand more than 120-140 thousand km, but they are not cheap: the front ones are assembled with shock absorbers - 52,000 rubles each, and the rear ones - 14,000 rubles each. To prolong their life, it is advisable to rinse the cylinders with each wash. And if the car begins to make extraneous knocks when driving through bumps, check the fastening of the front pneumatic elements to the racks - the fasteners weaken over time and require a banal broach.
The body is distinguished by heroic resistance to corrosion, and the paintwork is durable. Even chrome parts do not lose their gloss for many years. The main thing is that a car handicraftly restored after an accident is not sold to you under the guise of a worthy copy.
But the electrician presents unpleasant surprises with age: there are interruptions in the work of climate control, the heater motor is tormented by serenades, air damper servos (8 pieces, 3500 rubles each) begin to live their lives, the sound signal and the buttons on the steering wheel are buggy, swallows CDs -player ... And the treatment is by no means cheap.
Modification
For almost all of its models, Mercedes-Benz offers charged versions of AMG. And the M-class is no exception. Moreover, it should be noted that from the point of view of the margin of safety and durability, these modifications are preferable to civilian ML. After all, in the manufacture of these machines, more stringent quality control is applied. The engines are assembled by hand - each has a personal stamp of the master, who gives almost a lifetime guarantee on the motor. And automatic 7-speed transmissions are brought up and refined to “digest” higher torque. Externally, the ML 63 AMG is distinguished by other bumpers and an aerodynamic body kit around the perimeter of the body. Under the hood is a gasoline 6.2-liter V8 equipped with a compressor. The motor develops 510 hp. and 630 Nm, which allows you to accelerate a heavy SUV to 100 km / h in just 5.0 s, and the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km / h. By the way, the V8 does not suffer from a lack of appetite at all.
restyling
In 2008, the Mercedes-Benz ML underwent a restyling, which most noticeably affected its appearance. There have been no radical changes in the interior, except for the appearance of improved finishing materials. The updated car is most easily recognizable by the headlights, the inner lower corners of which are now lowered, a modified front bumper, which integrates a different form of fog, and an updated grille. At the rear, new LED taillights stand out. There are few technical innovations for Russian-spec machines. So, in the engine range, instead of the 5-liter V8 (M113), a power unit appeared with the same number of cylinders with a volume of 5.5 liters and a power of 388 hp. And the turbodiesel 4-liter "eight" after 2008 left the engine line.
Verdict
Sergei Fedorov, editor:
About a car like the Mercedes-Benz ML, they usually say: well tailored and tightly sewn. Even at a respectable age, he can boast of a respectable appearance, and on the highway with exquisite driving performance and handling, and also conquers with excellent off-road patency. But for everything in this life you have to pay. And even though a used M L is several times cheaper than a new one, we do not recommend buying it with the last money. Since its maintenance, even on a specialized "gray" service, is not available to call the language. It's a Mercedes! To minimize future costs in maintaining an SUV stuffed with electronics, we recommend stopping at the diesel modification ML 320 CDI younger than 2008.
advanced car model Mercedes ML W164 was discontinued a few years ago. However, those copies of this model that appeared on the market much earlier cost more than two new Dusters. Therefore, now we will figure out whether it is worth giving crazy money for a used Mercedes ML.
The Mercedes W164 body is characterized by the so-called exemplary survivability. Its outer surface is covered with high quality paint and varnish, such a paintwork is durable and long lasting. Metal, as is typical for Mercedes, is also durable and properly processed, therefore, the owner of this model can forget about the word “corrosion” for a long time. Even the chrome from the outside looks representative, of course, the chrome on older specimens loses its gloss a little, but this is all a matter of life. All in all, Mercedes ML body deserves respect.
The interior of the car is no less attractive. So, you need to try hard to somehow fray the interior trim, because it is made of reliable and resistant materials. Only the trunk curtain and rear seat backs can creak in the cabin, and then after a long time. The interior is durable, so only the look of the wooden finish worsens - cracks form on the varnish surface.
A sore subject is only the electronics installed in the cabin. For cars that were produced for the first time, there are sometimes interruptions in the functioning of the climate control system. The driver needs to either reflash or install another KLA control unit, which, by the way, is not cheap - about 1000 euros. In addition, after several years of operation, the heater motor, as well as the air damper servos, begins to “jump”. Replacing these parts will cost the owner of the car about a thousand euros.
After some time, you may notice that the audio system can be “greedy” at times - it does not give away discs. Therefore, you will have to install a brand new CD changer. Quite often, by pressing the buttons located on the steering wheel, the sound signal stops responding, and therefore it is necessary to install a new steering column wiring cable.
The real scourge for drivers is oxidized electronic boards. At first glance, a minor nuisance, which consists in the deteriorated quality of the tightness of the rubber seal on the rear right lamp, can turn into either a simply unexpectedly extinguished brake light or a damaged rear block of the SAM information processing system.
Equally unimportant is the reputation of the front SAM units installed in the space under the front passenger seats. As soon as a small amount of moisture gets there, instrument backlight failures immediately begin to occur and all electronic devices located in the front of the cabin can turn off. And new such SAM blocks cost around 400 euros.
Unlike the surface of the body, the outer handle of the driver's door is quite easy to corrode. Poor quality contacts cause the operation of the optional Keyless Go system to deteriorate. In most cases, after a few years, door locks also have to be changed, because the springs break in them.
Due to software failures, the electric lock on the trunk begins to act up, and after a few more years the plastic structure can completely collapse. Around the same period, many begin to notice failures in the tailgate servo, which are “cured” as a result of recalibration.
But the biggest problem should be expected in about eight years. It is then that the owner of a Mercedes ML may be surprised by the “behavior” of the ignition switch, which will not respond to the transponder key and, as a result, simply will not start the engine.
Motors in Mercedes ML
The most popular model is considered to be the gasoline "six" M272, which has a volume of 3.5 liters. It is she who makes up a significant part of the entire automotive market. Such a machine is characterized as the most problematic. Vehicles that have not undergone restyling experience sticking of plastic swirl flaps, after which you have to purchase a new intake manifold. But for newer machines (released after 2007), this defect has been fixed.
The car uses 2 batteries, costing 55 and 70 euros. They are usually enough for about 5 years, they provide power to all the electronics in the cabin. The Mercedes ML has a fairly reliable generator, it can easily work out 250,000 km, the starter solenoid relay may break after about 100,000 km. To change it you will need 45 euros.
However, the sore point of this motor is hidden in the ceramic-metal gear of the balance shaft drive. Its teeth sometimes wear out so much that the valve timing shifts, and chips with crumbs adversely affect the operation of the oil pump, which costs approximately 170 euros.
When purchasing a used car, you should pay attention to the presence of "diesel" tapping, as well as to the correct operation of the motor. Do this Mercedes ML test it is necessary, otherwise you will have to fork out for its repair, which involves the mandatory removal of the engine, which is about 2,500 euros. At the same time, it is possible to install at the same time a new clutch for adjusting the valve timing and a drive chain with dampers and tensioners, which will stretch evenly over time.
The few owners of ML with a V8 engine of the M273 series should not relax too much. They also expect problems with gears. Its only advantage is that there is no need to remove the engine when replacing the balance shaft.
The most reliable model is the "eight" M113. It can be compared with a tank, but such a "rarity" is very rare. Therefore, connoisseurs of reliability should consider, as an option, the diesel "six" OM642. Behind her wheel, one can face a rather serious problem only when driving a pre-styling version, which was released no later than 2007.
The inner surface of these cars is made of erroneously selected material. In addition, after about 150 thousand kilometers, the welds begin to crumble very quickly. Metal chips enter the turbine, as a result of which it stops its work.
Transmission
One thing pleases: you don’t have to rack your brains with the choice of the type of gearbox. Indeed, today there is no alternative to the 7-speed automatic Mercedes G-tronic 722.9. It was created in 2005 and even then had a large number of minor flaws. The ISM module is experiencing faults that prevent the selector from being switched. The main drawback is the weak Siemens ECM electronic control board. The latter is not able to withstand frying in a special oil box for a long period. In this regard, a temperature of 130 degrees is considered fatal for her.
The valve body, combined with the ECU into one system, is also not famous for its reliability, because control solenoids become out of service over time. As a result, the clutch packs are disabled. Exactly the same consequences can occur due to improper operation of the oil pump, in which the gears are deformed after crossing the mark of 150,000 kilometers.
However, all the problems described above often concern only those cars that were produced before 2007. In other models, only one drawback is manifested - in the places of rolling, the cooling tube of the "machine" flows. But the box itself has the ability to nurse about two hundred thousand kilometers without supernatural effort.
The transfer case can last about the same. But occasionally there is another breakdown after every hundred thousand kilometers. There may be a strong rattle that occurs under the influence of a load from an extended chain, as well as beeps after picking up speed if the planetary bearings are already worn out. As a rule, the cause of the hum is the outboard bearing of the driveshaft, which changes along with the driveshaft. Replacing the gearbox is mandatory if you feel vibrations generated in the front gearbox.
The disadvantages do not end there in the Mercedes ML. Many car owners complain about uncharacteristic sounds in the steering system. For instances that are more than eight years old, it is better to immediately replace the power steering pumps, as well as the reservoir. Such measures are carried out for the purpose of prevention, because the filter mesh becomes clogged after a few years and quickly fails.
As for the steering rack, it rarely breaks, but it can leak. This shortcoming is corrected by using the original set of seals with stuffing boxes. The play in the steering shaft cardan shafts should be checked after a noticeable knock appears when the steering wheel is turned.
Car suspension
In the suspension of a car that has traveled at least seventy thousand kilometers, the stabilizer strut usually breaks first. Then the tie rods begin to give up (after about 100,000 km), as well as the rear shock absorbers. In addition, you may have to spend the money needed to replace the front shock absorbers and at the same time the lower arms, in which silent blocks are torn along the inner race.
This is where the problems with the spring suspension end, which is not typical for the rather capricious pneumatic Airmatic. Her worries are just beginning. During the general washing of the vehicle, the air bellows should be washed every time. Otherwise, with constant movement, they will be erased to holes. However, it is worth remembering that even with proper care, pneumatic parts cannot last longer than 120,000 kilometers.
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Mercedes ML 164 - Common problems and how much does maintenance cost?
The choice of 164 body, so as not to be left without pants.
The main problem with both gasoline and diesel engines Mercedes ml is swirl flaps and their plastic rods. The reasons for the failure of the flaps are soot (or soot in the case of a diesel engine) in the intake manifold. Symptoms of faulty swirl flaps can include lack of bottom end traction, skipping, and tripping. In the last stages, this malfunction generates a burning Check Engine light.
The solution to the problem is possible in two ways: replacing the manifold, which is not cheap (50 thousand for the M272, 100 thousand for the M273, 50-60 thousand for the OM642 and up to two hundred thousand on the OM629 engine, where the manifold consists of two parts.) On a diesel engine, in addition to losing power and unstable operation, quite fatal consequences are possible when the dampers stick in the closed state. Possible preventive measures to disassemble and clean the intake manifold. It is necessary to choose ML350 or ML320d only on the basis of checking the condition of the dampers, it is significantly cheaper than repairing.
Worn fuel injectors or injection pump- relevant to a greater extent for diesel engines, a very expensive problem for Mercedes. Taking into account the price for 2017 - 30-35 thousand rubles for the replacement of one nozzle (there are 6 in total). Replacement for refurbished used ones from 15-20 thousand per nozzle. Typical symptoms are poor starting in cold weather, mixture corrections, increased smoke when idle. They are easily checked before purchase, however, to varying degrees, the problem exists on the vast majority of cars. To diagnose injectors, you need a test drive and a warm engine, a lift is not needed. We recommend that you pay the most attention to the diagnosis of fuel equipment when choosing W164 / W166 with diesel engines.
"Kicks automatic transmission Mercedes 7G-tronic" or in other words, cleaning / overhauling the hydraulic plate or replacing the gearbox control board is required - this Mercedes ML w164 disease exists on every second car. A hydraulic plate malfunction cannot be solved by flashing, the problem of kicks at low speeds can only be solved by repairing the automatic transmission valve body. Do not confuse the problem with a malfunction of the transmission control board. Checking is possible only during a test drive and is not diagnosed on the lift. ML and GL gearboxes do not die on a mileage of 100 or 150 or even 200, how long the box runs directly depends on the operating style and frequency of maintenance, so choosing a Mercedes by mileage is extremely incorrect.
We strongly recommend that you check the Mercedes ML automatic transmission problems before buying, otherwise you risk getting a faulty automatic transmission or a “half-functional one” when repairs are not yet required, but the car is not comfortable to drive.
Depreciation of injection pump or high pressure pump. A rather rare malfunction, which, in a state of disrepair, can kill all fuel injectors and clog the fuel rail with shavings. Usually, computer diagnostics and a test drive in certain modes allow you to find out the condition of the pump.
Mercedes ML w164 and not obviously costly problems
Broken door locks- one door lock 25 thousand rubles, there are no non-originals and the mechanism is not repairable. Locks from a showdown cost 15-20 thousand rubles and their service life is extremely short. Be sure to check the operation of the central lock.
The silent blocks of the front lower levers are a cheap part, but the original one is not sold separately, the non-originals “go” for half a year and require replacement, and the assembled lever costs about 40 thousand rubles.
The Rear SAM block flooded with water, the cost of a new one is about 20 thousand rubles. The unit is responsible for the operation of the electronics of the rear of the car. Burning brake lights, an incorrect or non-functioning fuel level sensor, or a power failure of the fuel pumps can seriously spoil the mood due to the manner of services to change serviceable pumps instead of the control unit.
In addition to the resource of engine components, there is a certain set of age-related and factory diseases of Mercedes. Consider some of the problems of Mercedes engines for a good example:
The main problem of the aged Mercedes ml350 w164 and the M272 engine in principle is scuffing of the block of cylinders. There are many reasons, and even more cases of detection of scuffs. Buying Mercedes with bullies is stupid, so the editors don’t see much point in seriously revealing this topic. The only cure for scuffing on the M272/M273 is the engine sleeve.
In order not to deal with sleeves and not write angry reviews on the Internet, it is necessary to check the problems of scuffing on the Mercedes ML / GL before buying, first of all, if there are suspicions in the form of knocking or uneven speed with a clean throttle and a working MAP / MAF sensor.
Another problem with the M272 Mercedes motor is soft timing stars. The problem was fixed on the M276 successor motor, where only a factory defect in the chain tensioner remained from the problems of the ML350 timing belt, which manifests itself during runs of about a hundred thousand kilometers.
The problems of the Mercedes w164 ML, as well as the diesel engine, can also include the current heat exchanger, automatic transmission oil seal, weak steering rack and especially steering rack silent blocks, because of which many services sentence a working rack to be replaced.
Diagnosing problems with Mercedes engines does not necessarily involve disassembling the engine with hanging the body on a lift. Such measures are necessary when the malfunction has already been identified as a result of diagnostics and repair is necessary. Most often, it is enough to diagnose the engine using a set of direct and indirect parameters, both physically and electronically. It is in the knowledge of the nuances of each individual type of engine that professionalism lies. Diagnostics is especially necessary for a diesel engine, because with a huge margin of safety of the internal combustion engine itself, some components have increased wear due to improper operation (turbines, nozzles, manifold) and the cost of their repair can shock an ordinary car enthusiast who just wanted to enjoy the car.
Many potential buyers very afraid of the unreliability of the air suspension, however, pneuma is a relatively reliable and cheap unit to maintain. To emphasize the importance of diagnosis and the wrong priorities among buyers, we will give the cost of eliminating other sores after the point of critical wear.
Current fuel injectors - 6 pieces for 35 thousand rubles - 210,000 rubles + work.
Water hammer due to running overflow of fuel injectors - engine replacement or sleeve. (200-400 thousand rubles)
High pressure fuel pump caught up with metal shavings into the fuel line, symptoms are low pressure, inefficient acceleration, skip errors. A new high-pressure fuel pump - 45-55 thousand rubles, cleaning the fuel line with analysis ~ 50 thousand rubles. In especially advanced cases, replacement of fuel injectors is required.
The problems of the Mercedes diesel do not end there, due to a long drive with a clogged particulate filter excessive pressure in the crankcase ventilation system and cracking of the cylinder head is possible (especially true on the OM628 V8). Solved only by a major overhaul.
Air bag explosion risks on the track due to the age of the material - absolute nothing compared to the problems described above.
Determining the original mileage of a Mercedes
“At the wizard Suleiman, everything is honest, without deceit.”
You can not “completely” twist the mileage in all blocks. The actual mileage or engine hours are still determined with an accuracy of five hundred kilometers.
Real or original Mercedes mileage is not determined by pedal or interior wear. Serious interior wear on the ML W164 or GL X164 appears much later than Japanese classmates. Estimating mileage by interior wear is a counterproductive test and only helps inexperienced buyers engage in self-deception.
How to find out the real mileage of a Mercedes?
All cases of twisted run can be divided into two categories:
1. The seller twisted the mileage only on the dashboard.
Computer on-site diagnostics of Mercedes using Star Diag will simply reveal the fraud and show the exact mileage numbers. The seller will either have to admit or continue to repeat that “it was not he who twisted it, but maybe before him.”
Most twisted Mercedes can be "kicked off" at the stage of viewing ads - in the dashboard photo they usually have the "Trip A / B" counter recently reset to zero or the value is extremely low. Usually this is accompanied by an empty tank.
Small readings of the trip counter are associated with the dismantling of the dashboard to correct the odometer using the programmer, while the dashboard is de-energized and the values are reset. No one specifically resets the Trip counter before creating photos for sale.
2. The seller spent money on correcting the real mileage in several ECU units.
There are three ways to understand the real mileage of a Mercedes. In addition to separate mileage counters in various ECUs, there are "side" counters that count from certain events - they cannot be twisted, only overwritten by new events (for example, forced burning of a particulate filter or events in the electronic hand brake unit).
In addition to the “side” counters, there is an Assyst Plus block, where all maintenance and the number of oil change interval resets are recorded, so if the odometer shows 100,000 on the dashboard and the number of interval resets is 20, there will be no doubt that the real Mercedes mileage is significantly higher.
The last and most important criterion is engine hours. This is a counter of engine operation in hours, which we consider to be a more objective value than the actual mileage of a car, and we look at it first of all. Despite the low mileage in Moscow, the number of engine hours can be very significant, so we carefully weigh the pros and cons before recommending a specific mercedes to our client.
Computer diagnostics Mercedes ML/GL W164
On-site diagnostics of Mercedes is not only reading errors with checking the body. This is a test of all the main components of the car with knowledge of the specifics of the engine, transmission and electronics.
Computer diagnostics of a diesel Mercedes always begins with checking the throughput of the EGR valve, the degree of clogging of the particulate filter and the maximum pressure of the injection pump in the load. Half of these pre-purchase checks are done on the move, due to the ECU features of some engines blocking the maximum use of aggregates in Parking or Neutral.
At idle on a cold and hot engine, Mercedes computer diagnostics allows you to check the chain tension at the angles of the camshafts, as well as fuel injection corrections to determine the wear of the engine's fuel injectors.
After a test drive in various modes, if the auto expert has suspicions about the wear of individual components of the automatic transmission, a second test drive is performed with a request for transmission streaming data. This measure allows you to accurately understand the clogging of the valve body and solenoid valves with wear products of the clutches of the main pairs.
Evaluation of the clogging of the particulate filter, the pressure in the USR valve is also an integral part of the diagnosis of a diesel Mercedes.
Is it worth buying a Mercedes ML w164?
What is the difference between restyling 2008 and dorestyle
A reasonable question, especially when you consider that it is 2018 and cars aged about 10 years do not inspire much confidence in terms of reliability. This choice is often faced by our specialists, because, following our own philosophy, we buy a premium at an age. The point is that after a certain age of the car, the probability of certain breakdowns is almost the same, and the difference in condition is not due to the number of owners and mileage, but to the pocket of these owners. If you really like the Mercedes ML / GL 164, then buying a car is definitely worth it, but you need to be very careful in the selection process. We will give a few rules for choosing a live car from our experience:
Don't buy cars from car dealerships. Why you should not buy cars in showrooms? Because the whole industry of reselling cars in Russia, unfortunately, is tied to lies and buying cars for next to nothing. A polished body, dry cleaning of the interior and photos on a professional SLR camera are not yet a sign of excellent condition. Car dealerships do not provide any guarantee for the box or engine, this is a PR move and, at best, in the event of a breakdown, managers will refer to a malfunction due to your fault.
Do not choose cars aged 7-10 years by the number of owners and entries in PTS. This indicator is absolutely useless and counterproductive. Only the technical condition of the engine, automatic transmission and other units matters. There are no old Mercedes, there are owners without money. Our practice is full of examples when a car with 5 owners is much better serviced and does not cause complaints, while a car with 1-2 owners was frankly used for all the money and only an engine oil change was maintenance.
Don't pay much attention to the car's mileage indicated in the ads, as well as on the rest of the description. All sellers lie to a greater or lesser extent. Two-thirds of all cars, once or several times, have been subjected to mileage twisting, so the real mileage can only be found out upon inspection.
Don't buy anyway avoid cars from outbid. Where the sale of a car is a business, there is a lot of kroilovo in the "pre-sale preparation". An external gloss is applied and all traces of malfunctions are washed out (the hood, turbine nozzles are washed, additives are poured in, headlights are put on self-tapping screws or on glue, etc.). Outbid buyers buy beaten, problematic or simply in pursuit of profit may not notice a broken car in theft. There are more than enough such cases.
Never rely on your knowledge alone. Checking a car in a specialized service or a specialized specialist can not only add reasons for bargaining, but can also protect against serious problems, whether it be repairs for several hundred thousand or a chance to lose all the money along with the car due to the iron horse’s criminal past.
Checking a car before buying should be carried out only by a specialized organization. Anyone who does not have a specialization is not able to check anything other than suspension units. If you are looking for a Mercedes service, look for club services. They know all the characteristic sores and their symptoms. If you need on-site diagnostics before buying, you need to look for an organization with a large portfolio of diagnostics and selection of Mercedes. You can verify competence by asking leading questions on typical malfunctions.
Mercedes GL and ML in 164 body is a great comfortable car, which is not worth abandoning because of fear of expensive breakdowns and is rather illogical. It is important not to repeat the mistakes of our careless fellow citizens and carefully check the Mercedes before buying.
Mercedes ML w164 restyling differences from dorestayl
The most significant difference between restyling ML and dorestyle is fixing problems with the automatic transmission valve body 722.9 (7G-Tronic). Any forum is full of feedback and discussion of the problems of jerking, hitting and falling into neutral (service mode). The malfunction associated with the electronic control board of the valve body has been largely corrected. However, if the car has suffered from racing use and the oil in the box has never been changed, there is a high probability of such problems, because. the control board is bathed in hot oil.
Rear lights replaced with LED. The service life of the rear stops has increased many times over, and the problem of drainage of the rear pillars has also been partially corrected, as a result of which the Rear Sam block floods much less frequently. On dorestyle, a common problem was the frequent burnout of rear stop bulbs and incorrect fuel level readings.
The head unit (cassette recorder in the common people) has been replaced by Command NTG 2.5.
A new range of engines, a line of gasoline engines received a new gasoline engine with a volume of 5.5 liters M273 388 hp. instead of 5.0 M113 306 hp You can read about the problems of this gasoline engine based on the M272 in the selection problems section above. Diesel engines received only new power indices (320d was replaced by 350d).
The headlights are modified, and the appearance of the grille and front bumper has also changed.
The steering wheel and some decorative elements of the interior have been changed. In some trim levels since 2010 (Grand Edition), a steering wheel from the ML 63 AMG has become available.
Selection of a Mercedes car with mileage in Moscow
The diagnostic laboratory has been providing Mercedes ML/GL W164/X164 auto-selection services for many years. Our main difference from competing organizations is our open portfolio and narrow focus on premium brands. We have the greatest experience in the Mercedes brand in the diagnosis and selection of ML w164 and w166 diesel engines with indices 300/320/350/420/450 CDI and gasoline ML 350/500 and 63 AMG, as well as diesel GL 320/350/420/450 CDI (including blue efficiency) and petrol GL 470/500 as well as GL 350 CDI/GL 500 and GL 63 AMG.
Our approach to diagnostics can be briefly described as “less attention to small things, more to diagnostics of large and expensive components to repair.”
We start work on the selection of a turnkey Mercedes ML W164
- Mercedes ML (ML300, ML350, ML500, Diesel priority)
- 1-2 owners, 1 priority
- Salon in good condition.
- No need for costly repairs
- Without duplicate TCP
- Legally clear.
- No major accidents.
- Only a serviceable automatic transmission without the classic flaws of an aged 7GTronic
- Mileage preferably up to 100,000 km
- Full legal and forensic expertise before purchasing the selected option
