The reliability and the qualit has improved dramatically! From the the first time I posted on this list in March of Last year there were complaints. Now all you see on this board are modifications, and problems with mostly pre 01 MLs. The 02's should be even better. Definatly go for it.
I was never aware that we had a reliability problem. Maybe is a question of semantics and what is understood by reliable. To me a reliable vehicle is one that with overwhelming odds will deliver me from one point to another, and a unreliable vehicle is one that has a greater that average chance of not being able to do so. I have been a participant in this forum for a long time, and there has been only a couple of instances of mechanical failure from the vehicle that I remember from thousands of postings, the most common problem was the infamous fuel pump, long corrected. Never heard of an ML having a mechanical breakdown of the engine. For consumer reports unreliable means also things like a piece of upholstery flaping or a rattle on the door, well, one can go around the earth with a thousand rattles, that will not make the vehicle stop.
That unreliable stigma has been so unfair that is to the point of missleading, the correct question should be, Do they still have trim and fit problems? I dont know, I have a 99 ML430 and never had problems.
You are hanging on to the same reportage since they tests of an early 98 ML built in 97. Concerns were with fit/finish, some electronic glitches and squeaks/rattles.
They compared the early production model to other MB models and found the ML short on Quality.
When I asked for population data for their statistical sample for all vehicles tested they refused to publish saying it was too difficult to produce such.
You will find in the same report that the ML is by far the leading SUV. Similar contradictions and anomalies can be found throughout the historical charts and recommendations.
Another typical example: Fridgidaire was the number one rated front loader; same test: they had the worst reliabliity rating.
Same with vehicles.
My 99 ML 320 has been perfect. In fact I have traded in newer vehicles with fewer miles and my wife and I say let's keep the Merc forever.
Thor, you're right. It would have made more sense to provide a seperate climate control for the rear. I'm not very familiar with the C-class rear a/c set-up. How does it differ from the MY02 system?
Mercedes engineers have completely redeveloped the standard automatic climate control system and equipped it with the latest technical features. Attractively styled controls with integral keys for the automatic mode, air recirculation and other functions ensure convenient operation and adjustment of this highly efficient system, which also allows the climate in the rear to be suitably adjusted thanks to an auxiliary fan and separate ventilation nozzles.
The new ML 500, which replaces the current ML 430, offers an even better performance. Its V8 engine develops a torque of 440 Newton metres from 2700 rpm and accelerates the M-Class from standstill to 100 km/h in just 7.7 seconds. The maximum speed of the new ML 500 is 221 km/h.
Externally the new V8-models in the M-Class are distinguishable by discreet chrome trim on the radiator grille vanes, on the door handles and on the handle of the tailgate, as well as by their special wheel design.
In future the status of the ML 55 AMG, with its 255-kW/347-hp high-performance V8 engine, as the top-of-the-line model in the M-Class range will be emphasised even more strongly by a silver-painted radiator grille.
In addition to the two new V8 models ML 400 CDI and ML 500, as well as the ML 55 AMG, the five-cylinder diesel engine of the ML 270 CDI and the V6 petrol engine of the ML 320 continue to be available for the M-Class.
Diesel=NO US
Mercedes-Benz is providing even more comprehensive occupant protection in the M-Class with standard windowbags, which instantly deploy across the insides of the side windows like a curtain in the event of a lateral collision. Around 200 centimetres long and 500 millimetres high, these air cushions supplement the protective action of the sidebags in the doors.
Additional driving safety is also provided by the innovative bi-xenon headlamps, which Mercedes-Benz has previously used in the top coupés of the CL-Class. Thanks to gas discharge technology, these headlamps generate twice the lighting power of conventional halogen headlamps and ensure even better illumination of the road surface both with dipped and high beam. In conjunction with these bi-xenon headlamps Mercedes-Benz provides a sensor-activated headlamp beam control system and a high-pressure cleaning system for the transparent headlamp lenses.
Like all the latest Mercedes passenger car models, the M-Class will also feature a special light sensor on the windscreen that automatically switches on the external vehicle lights when dusk falls. Known as Headlamp Assist, this system is standard equipment in the four-wheel-drive M-Class. At the same time, the parking aid PARKTRONIC will become available as optional equipment for the M-Class.
After driving around w/ my rear left door ajar on my 2001 ML430, and finally noticed that the door was what was making the rattling noise. It occurred to me that there was no door ajar indicator. Looking through the manual I didnt see a reference to this feature. Am I missing anything or is this not supported on the ML ?
I don't know if MB is going to add this gadget to MY2002, but for me its not a big deal not having a door ajar indicator on the dash board. If I'm indoubt if my door is open I just check the dome light if its on the door is open and if it is off means the door is shut. But don't get me wrong you are right ists nice to have a door ajar indicator.
mchwe, I have a MY2000 ML320 with 18,000+ miles and I love it. The best SUV/Vehicle I ever had. So don't listen to the consumer report.
Drew, I think this is for you to reply back on. I know that our ML have slanted hoods so in case a person goes in the path of a ML, they can roll off and not get hurt more etc.
It says the ML is a danger to other vehicles. The bottom line is you can not protect the world from everything. End of the discussion, at least for me.
Costco Wholesale stores are offering a $50 dollars off for Michelin Tires. The sale is on from June 18 through July 1st only. Besides, a coupon is needed and you could ask for it at customer services before making the transaction.
I received this info in the mail and I thought of sharing it with you..
There is no mention that MB tests the M-class against all of its line (including the A-class which didn't get it's passenger compartment crushed). There is no test against Ford SUVs (Ford made a big deal about adding beams so they wouldn't override bumpers). There is no mention that SUVs are not as useful if you lower them by 4" as they did. We've been chatting about this on the M-Class list.
I have an 01 ML 320 that I bought in March and my doors are already getting a lot of dings. Can anyone help me with recommendations on good door guards for the ML 320?
The fuel gauge on my 2001 ML320 seems faulty: It drops quickly from full to 1/2 empty after traveling about 30 miles from filling up. The dealer says this is a normal characteristic. Does anybody else have this problem? (sorry normal characteristic) with their fuel gauge??
I am in the process of purchasing an '01 ML320. Has anyone put 17" tires on their 320? I like the beefier look of the 430 and don't want to spend an extra $6,000 cdn for the sport package or 430. Also toying with waiting for an '02 instead but don't see a big difference.
my thanks to biker5, thor8, rexconde1, rockypaul for helpful posts. i live in tuscaloosa, and hear that the plant will be closed for a couple of months to retool for 2002. they are producing overtime right now for building up inventory. i look forward to supporting the local economy!
This is not the information you are asking for, but it might save you a lot of grief in the future. Try parking in end spots, further away from the door, park closer to the driver side, avoid slopes, and stay away from coupes and beaters.
The safest spot I ever found was an end spot which once used to be a handicapped space so it was much bigger and surrounded by Jags and Mercs whose owners were more afraid of me dinging their doors than they mine.
The IIHS is not the independent/neutral organization it wants you to think it is. It's bogus and a scam. Don't sue me, I'm just excercising my first amendment rights. I ignore all it's bogus findings and warnings.
If you all take a look at your ML brochure it specifically states that "it is designed with crash compatibility with passenger cars in mind." It has a lower lip to it's bumper which matches the height of car bumpers more closely. It even has a picture of the ML bumper kissing a C-class bumper.
Of course, if the IIHS crashes the ML head on with a car with a low hood like a 88 Pontiac Fiero or an Acura NSX or the Ford Taurus, it's going to ride up.
Well, that's the price you pay for driving a car with a low hood. Stay the heck away from front end collisions with SUVs and if the IIHS says they want you to volunteer for some testing ask if you can drive the SUV instead.
It's not normal. I'd suggest you visit another dealer. Sounds like you have a loose connection to the fuel sender or your fuel sender has gotten corrupted by the sulphur in the fuel. MB is supposed to be working on a fuel level sensor that doesn't need contact, but no ETA :-P
i have had the 98 ml for about 3 and 1/2 years. Most of the problems have been fit and finish -- windows that don't roll up (4 times fixed), door locks that don't work, rattles, etc. But engine always work great (tho it wouldn't start at one point -- fuel pump problem). i drive the 2001 model when they are working on mine and that drives much smoother and quieter. i will either buy the 2002 model (need rear AC in arizona) or go with 2001 x5.
I have just started to read about those -- and am going to hold off until 2002 model. by then, the ml will have rear A/C and hopefully bmw will have figured out why x5 is starting on fire. also, if i go the mdx route, they will have a year under their fan belts, so to speak.
Late response to "reliability" discussion. (This board moves so fast!) I used to think "Consumer Reports" (CR) was the "be all end all" of car discussion. But if you dig a little deeper you realize CR info is not always accurate and sometimes misleading. I asked them why the ML would get such a poor reliability rating when it appears MB successfully addressed the early "reliability" problems and responded to consumer complaints like no other manufacturer. And, CR rated the 2000 ML very well. (Plus, at one point they rated the ML as the best SUV). Their response was that they average all prior years of the same model together. (Think back to your college years - it's real easy to bring your GPA down and more difficult to bring it up). So, MB doesn't get any acknowledgement for making an excellent, reliable SUV since 2000. Also, their data is usually a year behind. But here's what really brought the CR data into doubt for me: Historically, CR avoids "recommending" a new vehicle because of lack of reliability info (They refused to recommend either the ML or the X5), and yet they put their recommendation stamp on the new Acura MDX! Why not wait and see how it performs like all the others? Seems like they're playing favorites. This proved to me how subjective, unfair, and unscientific CR really is.
Just to offer a counterpoint (and yes, I like the M-Class), the latest 2001 JD Power Initial Quality survey seems to back up their findings. The M-Class placed #122 and it's rating was below the industry average.
Now we're not talking about the vehicle breaking down on the side of the road, initial quality is anything that goes wrong within the first 90 days, whether it's a piece of unsecure trim or as complex as an ECU going out.
I have to agree with Tony. I love Mercedes, in fact I still drive 1989 300E with 125k miles and still going. It's still solid and trouble free. I am seriously considering ML to replace my 300E. After hearing abysmal quality on ML 1998-1999, I wait till Mercedes has fixed all the problems with ML. Unfortunately, according to the latest JD power survey, ML is having a major quality issues [below industry average]. It's sad to think that the old Mercedes used to dominate the JD power, not anymore.
Off topic, I have to hat off to the Lexus quality control. Lexus LS430 only has 58 problems per 100 cars, that's amazing. A modern car has thousands of parts, it means that LS430 is 99.9% perfect.
Had some glue residue of some sort on my moonroof and also noticed that if I slide the moonroof cover all the way in, there's something catching it at the back. Well, as Drew have guessed, the headliner glue or something of that nature, needs to be replaced. So, my SA told me that it's going to take one day to do that job. So, I'm off with my loaner, they provided a '00 c230.
I have a 1999 ML320, 26,000 miles. It like it a lot, but here is what had to be replaced: 1. ABS hydraulic unit 2. ETS (electronic traction system) control module 3. 1 window regulator 4. Transfer case 5. Fuel Tank (because a 4-inch plastic ring that locks filler neck to fuel tank neck broke.) Part not available separately 6. Heater duct to floor area 7. Sunroof (had to remove headliner in order to replace roof frame/tray Also rear seats fold but do not always latch in down position, even after 3 repair attempts. Sure glad we have the extended warranty for the long haul. P.S. Also have 2001 C240. At 1010 miles key broke down and would not start car--key replaced. Formerly had a 190 2.6 for 14 years.
On later MY M-Class (2000+), MB installed (glued) noise reducing pads to the underside of the roof, immediately behind the moon roof opening. Now, in the hot weather, these pads are loosening. In fact, the glue is melting so that the pads are dropping, and when you open the moon roof, and it hits the first pad (now loose), it rubs over the glued surface thereby transferring the glue to the glass. The only remedy is to take your ML back to MB where they will need to remove the headliner (beware of finger prints when you pick up your car), remove the pads (they don't normally replace them), and replace the liner. This info is straight from my dealer ... my son-in-law is the tech. Good luck. Harry
Such is progress!! The company now is Daimler-CHRYSLER. Any possibilty Chrysler "quality control" is being implemented at DC?? Oh well; I still love my ML even though it is only a 1998. Harry
Got my ML about 6 months ago and though I usually take it the car wash, i decided to wash it myself the other day when i noticed a crack on my trunk door frame on the upper left side where the frame runs from the window to the end of the door. It's not exactly huge (i only noticed when i looked closely while attentively drying) but it's not hairline by any means. I don't know how it could have gotten there or when it did.
Could simply closing the trunk have caused such a crack? Any ideas on what it could be? The door is metal after all so I don't understand. And will the warranty cover this?
if they really lump together major and minor problems, wouldn't the result be misleading then? Example: Brake issue with Ford, lower control arm with Chevy, and exploding gas tank with Rolls (or is it Bentley). How can they equate a major problem like exploding gas tank to a minor problem like handrest bubbling (i.e. ML)? If you HAVE to choose between a car with one problem (exploding) and another with ten problems (loose trims, wind noise, etc.), which would you choose?
Are there any 98 M class owners who have filed any class-action suits agains Mercedes yet? I have had multiple problems with mine, and am truly dreading the time when this vehicle goes off warranty... The dealer/Mercedes refuses to sell me an extended warranty.
I used to be a Mercedes fan, but can tell you that I have yet to meet my Nissan dealership service department, much less be on a first name basis with the crew.
I have a Y2K ML 320 with about 18k miles and the Dun lops. I have started noticing uneven wear on the outside of the tires (rotation has only been done once to my knowledge at the Dealer where all the service is done) and decreased road grip, particularly on wet roads. Should I wait until my next service in about 3k more miles, rotate the tires at a local tire store, or purchase replacement tires (leaning toward the Michelin 255/65 R16 TX I/I but also have read about their Cross Terrain SUB tire)? Any help is appreciated!
In which State are u a resident of. Firstly you should consult a "lemon law" attorney. They work on contingency you do not pay a cent. I believe there may be a class action lawsuit that will be filed shortly and will keep you inform but please consult a LL atty, that should be your first line of action. Make sure you have all correspondence pertaining to your vehicle and also do send in a registered letter to your dealer and MBUSA about the problems that you have and also the reliability of the 98MLs. Record keeping is a must. Anyone who have had repeated problems with their MLs that have not been resolve should look into their respective Sates codes of practices. (Consumer Law). I have had problems with my ML and must admit that my dealer have been splendid in resolving many problems although there are many more which can only be rectified by MBUSA. e.g. Amount of time you had vehicle in garage for repairs, one needs to be compensated. Remember all the people you deal with have been trained to drag along all issues and in that way many will give up. Reverse the role and get then "tired" off you and get the work done.
gnc: Sounds like you have an alignment problem. I'd ask the dealer to look at it. If you get replacement tires, they'll just wear badly and you'd be in the same mess in a few months.
98mowner: I remember a lawyer was trying to get names of owners about 2 yrs ago. The problem with them is that the legal firm gets 90% of the settlement for their "work", and the owners get very little (at least that's the way it is w/ suits against companies for a drop in stock value)-: You should write a detailed complaint letter to your regional rep. Some have done that and been "helped" into a 2000 model which has a normal number of problems...
As a some time "do it myself" owner of a 99 ml 320 I was wondering has anyone changed the cabin filter on their ML? Is it easy or best left to the dealer with the next oil change? Please advice. Thanks
I am reading anything I can find on used ML320, BOW X5, and nexus SUB. The ML independent aluminum suspension and clever engine which tells when to change oil makes me feel that ML is cool. Is it right I should avoid ML years 98,99 and start looking at yr00 in hope that all major problems have been taken care of?
I had numerous problems with my 1998 ML 320, but mostly fit and finish. The sunroof was in over 15 times! However, these type of problems don't technically qualify for the lemon law, at least in Calif.
I obtained a copy of my service records from the dealer (there is a master printout they can run that covers everywhere you may have taken it to) and attached it to a letter (without mentioning the lemon law, but referring to the qualities of what the lemon law covers; check out lemon law on yahoo. com) to the regional area manager at MB. Use the New Jersey address.
After a week I got a call, and they essentially bought out my 1998 and got me into a 2001. No problems to speak of so far with 7900 miles on it. Going through lawyers always seems like a last resort to me. You want to try and raise the issue up the flag pole because the dealers don't want to let all of these problems make it look like they can't do their jobs. In fact, there was some problems with the 98's that the dealers just can't seem to get right. Why not give the regional manager a try and solving your issue. While it is easy to right a heated letter when you are upset at the problems, spend some time and write the right kind of letter that hits the points. It worked for me, and they were very professional and accomodative to me. MB is still a great company for customer service!
I am trying to decide between a 2001 ml430 s. a per-order of 2002. Can anyone give me some suggestions? My dealer is not giving me any discount on the 2001 model. BOW, if I order a 2002 model, how long will be the wait?
What's a reasonable price for the 2001 ml430 with the following options: dose, 3rd row, m3, sunroof.
Changing cabin filter is pretty easy, all you need is a philips screw driver.First unsnap the clip below the glove box(only one clip) then unscrew the two philips screws holding the bottom panel, but be careful because the 12 volts power still attach to the bottom panel, then unsnap the clip holding the filter...pull down the dirty filter and replace with the new one. installing...just do it in reverse. good luck
That's easy. If the dealer is not giving you any discount, go w/ the 2002. You only have to wait a few months and you get curtain bags as a safety feature... It'll be 1-2K more, but seems to be worth it.
For the attorney that's like winning the Lotto 100 times. For the plantiffs, that's like winning the $5 prize. Or you can opt for a $10 coupon next time you buy the same product.
There is a new lawsuit where the crooks, sorry, the attorneys are asking for 1 billion dollars for 2 deaths and 3 injuries in a Firestone case. The survivors have depression. But I don't know if anyone would trade away loved ones for any cash amount, so what good is $667 million to them? Besides, a $1 billion loss is not going to punish the company. It's just going to punish future Firestone buyers.
I maybe a little off topic here, but I wanted to add my two cents, class action suits are the latest invention of the legal thie....#7$^ahemm, got to clear my throat, profesion to "extort?" is it the rigth word? big money from big companies. I am witnessing it from first hand seat. My poor old 83 year old mother in law got a letter from a law firm were she is elegible to join the suit against a company she worked for about 30 some years ago for health hazards she did not know she had or has, she said she settles for what ever, they said no, WE can get more, I wonder who do they mean by WE, them?
Those law suits last for decades, since so much money is involved and in return they harden the company being sued to the point that thay will not accept any claims, big or small, rigth or wrong, legitimate or not. Washington DC has more lawyers that all of Japan.
Comments
Robert
To me a reliable vehicle is one that with overwhelming odds will deliver me from one point to another, and a unreliable vehicle is one that has a greater that average chance of not being able to do so. I have been a participant in this forum for a long time, and there has been only a couple of instances of mechanical failure from the vehicle that I remember from thousands of postings, the most common problem was the infamous fuel pump, long corrected. Never heard of an ML having a mechanical breakdown of the engine. For consumer reports unreliable means also things like a piece of upholstery flaping or a rattle on the door, well, one can go around the earth with a thousand rattles, that will not make the vehicle stop.
That unreliable stigma has been so unfair that is to the point of missleading, the correct question should be, Do they still have trim and fit problems? I dont know, I have a 99 ML430 and never had problems.
Concerns were with fit/finish, some electronic glitches and squeaks/rattles.
They compared the early production model to other MB models and found the ML short on Quality.
When I asked for population data for their statistical sample for all vehicles tested they refused to publish saying it was too difficult to produce such.
You will find in the same report that the ML is by far the leading SUV. Similar contradictions and anomalies can be found throughout the historical charts and recommendations.
Another typical example: Fridgidaire was the number one rated front loader; same test: they had the worst reliabliity rating.
Same with vehicles.
My 99 ML 320 has been perfect. In fact I have traded in newer vehicles with fewer miles and my wife and I say let's keep the Merc forever.
Hope this may be of help.
The new ML 500, which replaces the current ML 430, offers an even better performance. Its V8 engine develops a torque of 440 Newton metres from 2700 rpm and accelerates the M-Class from standstill to 100 km/h in just 7.7 seconds. The maximum speed of the new ML 500 is 221 km/h.
Externally the new V8-models in the M-Class are distinguishable by discreet chrome trim on the radiator grille vanes, on the door handles and on the handle of the tailgate, as well as by their special wheel design.
In future the status of the ML 55 AMG, with its 255-kW/347-hp high-performance V8 engine, as the top-of-the-line model in the M-Class range will be emphasised even more strongly by a silver-painted radiator grille.
In addition to the two new V8 models ML 400 CDI and ML 500, as well as the ML 55 AMG, the five-cylinder diesel engine of the ML 270 CDI and the V6 petrol engine of the ML 320 continue to be available for the M-Class.
Diesel=NO US
Mercedes-Benz is providing even more comprehensive occupant protection in the M-Class with standard windowbags, which instantly deploy across the insides of the side windows like a curtain in the event of a lateral collision. Around 200 centimetres long and 500 millimetres high, these air cushions supplement the protective action of the sidebags in the doors.
Additional driving safety is also provided by the innovative bi-xenon headlamps, which Mercedes-Benz has previously used in the top coupés of the CL-Class. Thanks to gas discharge technology, these headlamps generate twice the lighting power of conventional halogen headlamps and ensure even better illumination of the road surface both with dipped and high beam. In conjunction with these bi-xenon headlamps Mercedes-Benz provides a sensor-activated headlamp beam control system and a high-pressure cleaning system for the transparent headlamp lenses.
Like all the latest Mercedes passenger car models, the M-Class will also feature a special light sensor on the windscreen that automatically switches on the external vehicle lights when dusk falls. Known as Headlamp Assist, this system is standard equipment in the four-wheel-drive M-Class. At the same time, the parking aid PARKTRONIC will become available as optional equipment for the M-Class.
http://www.eliteviews.com
The worst I've heard is that a few folks w/ early models had the tranny go into limp home mode because of a bad tranny controller.
Dave
mchwe, I have a MY2000 ML320 with 18,000+ miles and I love it. The best SUV/Vehicle I ever had. So don't listen to the consumer report.
http://www.insure.com/auto/collision/mercedescrash501.html
Drew, I think this is for you to reply back on. I know that our ML have slanted hoods so in case a person goes in the path of a ML, they can roll off and not get hurt more etc.
Scott
The bottom line is you can not protect the world from everything. End of the discussion, at least for me.
Costco Wholesale stores are offering a $50 dollars off for Michelin Tires. The sale is on from June 18 through July 1st only. Besides, a coupon is needed and you could ask for it at customer services before making the transaction.
I received this info in the mail and I thought of sharing it with you..
Cheers
There is no test against Ford SUVs (Ford made a big deal about adding beams so they wouldn't override bumpers).
There is no mention that SUVs are not as useful if you lower them by 4" as they did.
We've been chatting about this on the M-Class list.
A little selfish, but true....
Robert
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/chat/mercedeschat.html
Drew
Host
Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards
The safest spot I ever found was an end spot which once used to be a handicapped space so it was much bigger and surrounded by Jags and Mercs whose owners were more afraid of me dinging their doors than they mine.
If you all take a look at your ML brochure it specifically states that "it is designed with crash compatibility with passenger cars in mind." It has a lower lip to it's bumper which matches the height of car bumpers more closely. It even has a picture of the ML bumper kissing a C-class bumper.
Of course, if the IIHS crashes the ML head on with a car with a low hood like a 88 Pontiac Fiero or an Acura NSX or the Ford Taurus, it's going to ride up.
Well, that's the price you pay for driving a car with a low hood. Stay the heck away from front end collisions with SUVs and if the IIHS says they want you to volunteer for some testing ask if you can drive the SUV instead.
You can also take a look at this MB master technician http://www.mercedesshop.com/shopforum/showthread.php3?threadid=13386
Now we're not talking about the vehicle breaking down on the side of the road, initial quality is anything that goes wrong within the first 90 days, whether it's a piece of unsecure trim or as complex as an ECU going out.
As usual, YMMV.
Off topic, I have to hat off to the Lexus quality control. Lexus LS430 only has 58 problems per 100 cars, that's amazing. A modern car has thousands of parts, it means that LS430 is 99.9% perfect.
1. ABS hydraulic unit
2. ETS (electronic traction system) control module
3. 1 window regulator
4. Transfer case
5. Fuel Tank (because a 4-inch plastic ring that locks filler neck to fuel tank neck broke.) Part not available separately
6. Heater duct to floor area
7. Sunroof (had to remove headliner in order to replace roof frame/tray
Also rear seats fold but do not always latch in down position, even after 3 repair attempts.
Sure glad we have the extended warranty for the long haul.
P.S. Also have 2001 C240. At 1010 miles key broke down and would not start car--key replaced. Formerly had a 190 2.6 for 14 years.
The only remedy is to take your ML back to MB where they will need to remove the headliner (beware of finger prints when you pick up your car), remove the pads (they don't normally replace them), and replace the liner.
This info is straight from my dealer ... my son-in-law is the tech.
Good luck. Harry
Oh well; I still love my ML even though it is only a 1998.
Harry
Could simply closing the trunk have caused such a crack? Any ideas on what it could be? The door is metal after all so I don't understand. And will the warranty cover this?
It's a known problem. Just bring it to the dealer.
The dealer/Mercedes refuses to sell me an extended warranty.
I used to be a Mercedes fan, but can tell you that I have yet to meet my Nissan dealership service department, much less be on a first name basis with the crew.
Sounds like you have an alignment problem. I'd ask the dealer to look at it. If you get replacement tires, they'll just wear badly and you'd be in the same mess in a few months.
98mowner:
I remember a lawyer was trying to get names of owners about 2 yrs ago. The problem with them is that the legal firm gets 90% of the settlement for their "work", and the owners get very little (at least that's the way it is w/ suits against companies for a drop in stock value)-:
You should write a detailed complaint letter to your regional rep. Some have done that and been "helped" into a 2000 model which has a normal number of problems...
Thanks!
us
I obtained a copy of my service records from the dealer (there is a master printout they can run that covers everywhere you may have taken it to) and attached it to a letter (without mentioning the lemon law, but referring to the qualities of what the lemon law covers; check out lemon law on yahoo. com) to the regional area manager at MB. Use the New Jersey address.
After a week I got a call, and they essentially bought out my 1998 and got me into a 2001. No problems to speak of so far with 7900 miles on it. Going through lawyers always seems like a last resort to me. You want to try and raise the issue up the flag pole because the dealers don't want to let all of these problems make it look like they can't do their jobs. In fact, there was some problems with the 98's that the dealers just can't seem to get right. Why not give the regional manager a try and solving your issue. While it is easy to right a heated letter when you are upset at the problems, spend some time and write the right kind of letter that hits the points. It worked for me, and they were very professional and accomodative to me. MB is still a great company for customer service!
What's a reasonable price for the 2001 ml430 with the following options: dose, 3rd row, m3, sunroof.
Thanks in advance for your help!
Steve
It'll be 1-2K more, but seems to be worth it.
There is a new lawsuit where the crooks, sorry, the attorneys are asking for 1 billion dollars for 2 deaths and 3 injuries in a Firestone case. The survivors have depression. But I don't know if anyone would trade away loved ones for any cash amount, so what good is $667 million to them? Besides, a $1 billion loss is not going to punish the company. It's just going to punish future Firestone buyers.
Those law suits last for decades, since so much money is involved and in return they harden the company being sued to the point that thay will not accept any claims, big or small, rigth or wrong, legitimate or not. Washington DC has more lawyers that all of Japan.
My two cents.