Mercedes-Benz M-class (ML320, ML350, ML500 and ML55) 2005 and earlier

lsweet28 · September 2001

Does anyone have a picture of the ML with mudflaps on it. I'm trying to decide if they are necessary or look good. I went to Clairparts but couldn't really tell from their picture. I'll have the dealer do it since I read the posted instructions and it didn't look feasible for me to do it myself.
I like the fender flares on the sport package but it looks like over $1,000 to have them added on. Would they help cut down on flying gunk? Does the dealer take off the old ones and put on the flared ones? I don't want them to look like an add-on kit.

michml320 · September 2001

From driving my '02 over 1500 miles so far, I can say this without hesitation...this vehicle NEEDS mud flaps. It throws dirt up as high as the rear window all over the rear quarter panels. It screams for mud flaps. I don't know about flares but I know I'm putting on flaps a.s.a.p. just my .02

johnnnyc · September 2001

requires mudflaps. They're just a necessary evil.

As far as a pic, I think you can find one here.

Jim's posted lots of great pics of his car, which has the mudflaps installed. I think they make the car look much more rugged, which I happen to like.

As far as fender flares - to me, those are purely cosmetic. They protect the paint to some extent, but unless you're going to do some serious offroading, I don't think you're saving much.

drew_ · September 2001

Jaime's pictures of his ML320 with mudflaps can be seen here:
drew_ Sep 19, 2001 3:47pm

The fender flares made of plastic are usually painted too, so you'll scratch them instead of the paint on the body, if that makes any difference. They are cosmetic and are meant to extend the fenders to make the wider tires look better. Here is a picture of a white ML320 with painted fender flares:
http://www.off-road.com/mbenz/we_whiteml4.jpg

http://www.off-road.com/mbenz/we_whiteml1.jpg

http://www.off-road.com/mbenz/we_whiteml2.jpg

Drew
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ml320 · September 2001

more info

Wolfgang

sequoiasaurus · September 2001

Gerald thanks for the response...but...

How far in advance did you have to "close the deal" with all the paper work?

I have a preapproval on a loan through my Credit Union that expires on the 6th and I wanted to close our deal by then. Just curious b/c my dealer won't give me a date he just keeps saying don't worry about it we'll give you a week to get you money ready.

Jack

ccweems · September 2001

No lifting the seat. Trickiest part is making the tool to pull the radio. The dealer did mine but it looks like a shirt collar stay tapered from one side like a #11 exacto blade. I did mine in the parking lot of the hardware store where I bought the torx screwdriver that you will need. Should have some tywraps to tidy things up. Also it does not come with instructions. I got mine from the dealer. I still have them if you need them faxed. Lastly the map CD's can be burned ;-).

ccweems · September 2001

They had one at the Frankfurt show with no spare inside so I assume they could have a F7. Drew, Birger?

drew_ · September 2001

That's interesting what you saw. You can get just about anything you want customised in Europe it seems, but over here, the M7 package is still not available with the ML55.

Any pictures, BTW?

Drew
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Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards

lovemyclk · September 2001

I will have my local photoshop convert my pics to a digital format so I can post a few for all to review. Believe me, everybody who has been involved with this anomoly has been as surprised as we are!

The body shop in the town we were visiting (Augusta, GA) that does all the local MB body work has repaired the bumper. The local dealer (Rader) handled the process with the support of our Atlanta-based dealer, where we will take the car tomorrow to see what MB plans to do to help us regarding a 2002 trade-in.

The odd event that led to this situation was a failed fuel pump! Car only has 29K miles on it to boot... maybe a blessing in disguise. When the flatbed operator showed to tow the truck, all were very concerned when the entire front bumper assembly pulled off. If it were not for the 2 safety cables attaching the bumper assembly to the rest of the vehicle, the ML would have rolled off the truck and into the cars behind it.

We don't doubt the reputation of MB... we've owned several and hope to own several more. My wife has absolutely enjoyed her '99, but will now want MB to help us get into a new one. Since this has happened, her safety is first and foremost... what if this chassis was just a fraction of an inch off in the assembly line and other welds along the ladder frame are imperfect?

We'll be happy to let MB take this one back to Vance to look it over. I won't ask you now for directions on how to post pics in a msg... guessing jpeg is the best format? I will have the pics converted this week and will post a msg asking for help so we can affirm my truthfulness once and for all!

lsweet28 · October 2001

Thanks to all for the for the great pictures. I'll be getting the mudflaps and passing on the flares. At least from the pictures I now undersand why they cost so much.

slee7 · October 2001

I've had my '01 320 for about a month and I've noticed a funny chemical smell from the vents every time the vehicle shifts around. Any ideas???
Probably a dumb question, but what's wrong with General tires, am I missing something???
Thanks ahead for the advice

slee7 · October 2001

Has anyone noticed that in parking situations, when shifting gears, the power steering gives out a little bit, unless you start moving???

52cars · October 2001

agree with michml320, it NEEDS mud flaps. i didn't see them on mbusa.com, where is the best place to get them. and for the installation, you just screw it in. right?(if not, instructions are appreciated)

thx.

52cars · October 2001

During the auto shows that take place every year in nyc. there is a product called 'lazy man's wax'(or something) from Perma-Seal International. have u used them(or seen anyone use them)? are they as good as it says. i bought 3 of them, but i haven't tried it yet. not sure if they are good on mb.

thx.

ml320 · October 2001

There's nothing wrong with General tires - I actually like them - they are similar to Conti CH95s, which S-Class owners are rather fond of. It's just that some of us prefer Dunlops when given the choice.

General Grabber ST

ContiTouringContact CH95

Wolfgang

birger · October 2001

Hi,

I'm sorry, but what Craig saw at the Frankfurt show must have been a one-off. According to the current official German W163 price list, the 3rd row seats are NOT an option for the ML55.

I had Dunlops on my first ML320 and was quite disappointed when I saw at delivery that the ML270CDI had Generals. Since then, my opinion has changed: The Generals are quieter, and IMHO also better on snow than the Dunlops. I've not yet been able to go off-road so I can't pronounce on that - though I think the Dunlops might have an edge there.

Birger

biker5 · October 2001

IMO General tire is a good tire I don't have any complaint about it I have 21K+ miles on it and I still have about 50% tread left.

52cars,
Installing mud flap is not that easy that we think, But the instruction came with it, can guide you through it. I did take the rear wheel off when I installed my rear flaps. Think SAFETY when working on Vehicle. You can get it to any
MB dealer and thru on line, call around and get the best price...price vary from $130 to $173.00.
Good Luck
JimB

hugeness · October 2001

Just thought I would check in to tell the group that the dealer was very good with taking in my damaged trade-in. I had negotiated $26,500 for the trade and then a few days later the car got sideswiped. I called the dealer and explained the situation. We talked through options and they escorted my wife to the bodyshop they prefer and stayed with her to get a quote. They agreed to take the damaged car and pay me the $26,500 less the $3,400 repair quote. After my insurance checked the quote they said they would pay it except for what they said were $200 of bogus items. I called the dealer and explained the situation and they came up with the extra $200 difference.

So now I am out of a big hassle getting a car fixed and riding pretty in an '02 Silver ML320 (well, actually the Wife is). Drove the car a bunch this weekend and really enjoyed it. Internal appearance and feel is MUCH better than the '99 ML 320 we had. I test drove the car before closing and drove it all weekend without noticing any of the hesitation problems discussed earlier. Maybe I just don't expect too much from the car in terms of acceleration.

52cars · October 2001

thanks.

just called the local dealer here, they don't have it for the 02 model yet. (and it costs about 250 for 01 model.)

marylandml320 · October 2001

Does anyone have instructions for removing the door panels? Thinking of upgrading the speakers.

Thanks!
Dave L.

radams1000 · October 2001

I'm planning on purchasing a 1998 ML320 w/ 57000 miles on it. The vehicle is in great shape inside and out. Has anyone come across any problems with a 1998? Are the miles to high?

gpvs · October 2001

Where did you get that little net? That's on the front passenger footwell, right? Looks pretty handy.

drivenow · October 2001

I have ordered a 2002 ML 500 with Capri Blue color. Is this the "purple-ish blue?" I think that the Orion Blue ($1,000 surcharge) is the purple-ish blue, but I'm not sure. Interior color is black (2 kids, doggie) - less carpet and seat soiling compared to the Tan interior. Will I regret these choices??

ccweems · October 2001

Not yet but the Frankfurt show did have a display by these folks. They make integral compressors for the 3.2 engine and have a dealer in the US. They have not done an ML yet.

http://www.kleemann.dk/go.htm

thor3 · October 2001

Hi Bob,

I don't recommend the 1998 model ML's. If you were not aware already the 1998 did not have many of the safety provisions that the 1999 and newer do. For example, ESP that helps keep the ML from loosing control with the use of a YAW sensor. In addition, the 1999 and newer have the BAS that activates the brakes in a panic situation much faster than your foot can do the job. There were also some frame rail modifications to enhance the passenger compartment front footwell . There were some other mods as well. Further, the 1998's were first generation and there were many issues to be ironed out...most third party extended warranties will not cover these...trim/seals...

The price of 1999 or newer should not be far off anyway...unless you are able to purchase the 1998 under $20K you should really consider a newer model.

If you are a good shopper you will be able to find a good deal on 1999 or newer...

Good luck : )

kenyee · October 2001

ccweems:
Problem is that the ML320's tranny is not as beefy as the ML430 or ML55's. Not sure if it can handle the power of a supercharged engine...

mark156 · October 2001

Drivenow, I think either blue is a nice color, I personally wouldn't choose a black interior because it just gets too hot. I think the Ash leather is available with either of the blue choices. Of course, I don't have kids so a light interior is not a problem for me. Just my .02.

itsui · October 2001

Does anyone know how to remove the tail light cover to change the bulbs? I did unscrew those plastic screws. But the plastic cover was very hard to pull it out (specially I'm afraid to break it). Please give me some advices. Thanks!

mercara · October 2001

In response to people looking for after market tires in the 255/65/16 size for the ML320s. I have been looking for the same. Besides the OEM Tires there is a good off-road tire avalilable from Michelin. IT is called the XPC. I checked it out on www.tirerack.com. They have great reviews but price at about $130+ a tire. That is probably what I will get. I also know that Michelin makes a highway tire in the same size. I haven't looked at it.

mercara · October 2001

Drew,

If you really want the All-Wheel Drive Mondeo in North America, you sure can get it at a $10,000 + premium. It is called the Jaguar X Type ;-). It shares the engine and powertrain with the Mondeo.

Pity the suckers who are willing to shell out $30,000 + to drive a ford with a Jaguar Badge. Correction, Pity the suckers who actually drive a Jaguar.

Jon90 · October 2001

I have told a couple people that i will report in. I am deciding on a vehicle to replace my expedition. I took a 320 home over the weekend, and liked it, didnt love it. The seat is not very comfortable for me, and lacked alot of thigh support (seemed short) I also have decided that although it is plenty peppy from a stop, there is very little passing power, especially with four men and four bags of golf clubs. I would have to get the ML500 for the engine. As far as quality, i do think they have fixed alot of the bugs, but i don't think they are up to par with lexus yet. The first ML i looked at had the piece around where the driver seatbelt is attached falling off. The second one, the new 32oz cupholder was broken and would not flip out.

I will look at the 500 a little further, but am also considering the Lexus LX470, which is WAY more comfortable, but less power. I havent driven the LX yet, but it looks very nice.

One problem is they had the prettiest car i have ever seen, the new SC430 convertible sitting next to it.....talk about drooling, it was incredible, the leather looked about 1/4 in thick...

I think we will probably end up with the ML cause it is roughly 20K less than the LX, but have to see who is dealing what, i have read that the LX's can be had for around 55 or so....at least the 2001s

Have to keep lookin....

lsweet28 · October 2001

I drive the Lexus RX300. My only complaint with it is the seats are uncomfortable (it's boring too). I'm wondering if the LX has different seats. I drove the Toyota Sequoia and found the seats to be about the same as the RX seats, lacking thigh support, too shallow and just as uncomfortable. If you are looking for great comfort the BMW X5 can't be beat, however the X5 seems to have quite a few issues/problems at this time.

kenyee · October 2001

For passing with authority, try using the Touchshift to downshift before you initiate the passing. For that much extra weight, you might have to drop into 3rd.

drew_ · October 2001

Just a reminder that the MB chat is on tonight (6-7pm Pacific/9-10 pm Eastern). Hope to see you there!

http://www.edmunds.com/townhall/chat/mercedeschat.html

khoon · October 2001

Thanks for getting back - I don't go off-roading. city/hwy driving only.

Anyone hear anything about the Michelin X Terrian tire?

ml320 · October 2001

Ken, here's a better pic of those wheels you wondered about. Don't know yet who makes them..

Wolfgang

Jon90 · October 2001

I drove the X5, i wasn't impressed. It was pricey, and just seemd too small. One of the biggest things that bothered me was the lack of shoulder room. When i sat in the passenger seat, the B-pillar was about crushing me. Why can't they make things things big enough? The RX was in contention, but i hit the roof, not enough headroom, and wife wants a third row seat so we are down to the LX and the ML. I still have not found out how much they are willing to deal on an '02 ML500, am waiting on pricing on the 01 LX470, but I really want the nav.....I like the ML alot, i am just making sure it is really what i want, not to buy it just cause it's less money then the LX.

Also, i usually lease. There may be some incentives coming out if this economy does stall a little. I am in good shape cause my expedition isnt up until Jan 25th....so i am not in big hurry, and an educated buyer. Probably everything saleman hates....oh well

thanks for the posts, i find alot of info here, keep the threads going all!!!

johnny2000 · October 2001

The best deal I have heard on the new 2002 ML 500 is $600 over invoice.

Cheers

kenyee · October 2001

khoon:
City/hwy only, it's a no brainer. Get the Michelin Cross Terrain. They're decent in snow as well. A few folks on this forum have switched to them w/ positive results.
The MY2002 Dunlop's are not available yet; otherwise, they'd be a good choice as well.

wolfgang:
Thanks. Interesting looking. They look more solid than our wheels (more "spokes").

samzurc1 · October 2001

my newly purchased 99 ML 430 will be serviced this thursday for excessive wind noise coming from all the doors. are they going to put the rubber seals or do something else to quiet it down. What do I have to say to let them fix this problem the first time. Any suggestions. Thanks.

macbest · October 2001

The orion blue is the purplish blue. I have it on a 2001 ML320 and love it. Its very unique, probably due to the $1000 surcharage, so you just don't see many on the road. Black seats, as posted here earlier, get very hot. I'd go with the gray and get all weather mats for the kids. Good luck.

pathdoc · October 2001

I have a 99 430 ML and also had the problem with excessive wind noise from the door seals. It took me a while to notice it since I use my ML mainly around town and didn't notice the noise until I took it onto the feeway. The gap was so bad that you could put your fingers thru the seal. I finally took it in and they fixed it by placing new seals. It is a well known problem on 98 & 99 MLs.

ksydney · October 2001

I'm trying to determine invoice pricing on a 2002 ML 320. I'm trying to put together an ML320 with M1 Luxury Pkg., M5 Sunroof, Bose and Metallic paint.

The invoice price on Edmunds is $38725, the invoice price at Carsdirect.com is $39105. Both include destination. I can't figure out why there is a difference.

Thanks in advance.

Ksydney

samzurc1 · October 2001

thanks for the sharing your experience pathdoc.

samzurc1 · October 2001

are there any more outstanding "fix-its" that i need to be aware off in this car? thanks for your input.

svinaik · October 2001

Drew,

Where are you?.

Can you please educate us regarding the pros / cons of the current generation ML (Frame & Ladder stuff) vs. the unibody structure coming out in 2005.

Which one will be a keeper for long?. Which is more expensive to produce?

Towing is not an issue for me as I will never own a boat in my life (Few things that I am certain about).

Thanks...

marylandml320 · October 2001

I'm getting close to the B service (20K miles) so I contacted my service department (Euromotors Bethesda, MD) and asked about the types and brands of Oil that they are now using for cars with the FSS system. I was told that they use MOBIL1 for AMG vehicles and Castrol Syntec for non AMG cars with the FSS system. This gives me the impression that MOBIL1 is the better product. Asked them why, I was told that Syntec is easier (I think cheaper) to get in drums than MOBIL1. Yet I called another dealership (American Srv Center, Arlington, VA) and they use MOBIL1 for all cars. I'm confused?????

johnnnyc · October 2001

but here's what I did:

First - you can build your car over at MBUSA.com. It'll give you MSRP - no problem. Invoice on MB vehicles is MSRP - 7%.

Second - you can use the Kelly's Blue Book builder at http://www.kbb.com. That'll give you an invoice price that I found to be right on target (give or take a few bucks) with what MBUSA gives you (after subtracting 7% from MSRP).

Good luck - and remember - no more than $1k over invoice!

-John

kenyee · October 2001

I'll take a stab at it :-)
Unibody designs get less loose (less rattles).
Frame designs survive towing and off-roading better. I think they also get less crumpled during crashes too, but that's a personal opinion only.
Unibody is cheaper to produce and you can't open their doors while off-roading because the body is twisted.
Frame designs should last longer, but be noisier with time.

Of course, it's still possible to produce unibodies for off-road use. Look at the JGC and the latest Mitsu Montero.

Mercedes-Benz M-class (ML320, ML350, ML500 and ML55) 2005 and earlier

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