2000 Mercedes-Benz ML320
The 2000 Mercedes-Benz ML320 was a popular luxury SUV known for its blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. The ML320 came equipped with a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 215 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. Other engines available were the ML430 which came with a 4.3-liter V8 engine that produced 268 horsepower and 288 lb-ft of torque and the ML55 AMG which came with a 5.4-liter V8 engine that produced 342 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciated the ML320’s spacious interior and Mercedes-Benz badge, but some disliked its reliability issues and higher maintenance costs compared to other SUVs.
Engine
3.2L V6 (M112)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often from the valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing. This can result in burning oil smells and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets and/or oil filter housing gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and potential stalling.
- Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
- Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or no-start condition.
- Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
4.3L V8 (M113)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the V6, oil leaks are common, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil cooler lines.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Oil cooler line replacement if applicable.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the leak location)
- Catalytic Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, and potential rattling noise from the exhaust.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty catalytic converter(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ (due to the cost of catalytic converters)
5.4L V8 (M113)
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the V6 & V8, oil leaks are common, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil cooler lines.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Oil cooler line replacement if applicable.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the leak location)
- Catalytic Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, and potential rattling noise from the exhaust.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty catalytic converter(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ (due to the cost of catalytic converters)
Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (722.6)
- Shifter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shifter is unable to be moved from Park to Drive, Reverse, or Neutral.
- Solution: Replace shifter assembly or faulty shifter components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, limp mode, or complete transmission failure. This issue is common with the 722.6 transmission in this era of Mercedes.
- Solution: Replacing the transmission conductor plate (also called the valve body) and fluid/filter service.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at certain speeds, particularly when accelerating.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter. Often recommended to replace the transmission fluid and filter at the same time.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and potential steering instability.
- Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints (often requires replacing the entire control arm).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
- Strut Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension (clunking or rattling), especially when going over bumps.
- Solution: Replacing the strut mounts. Often recommended to replace struts/shocks at the same time.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per corner
- Sagging Rear Suspension
- Description/Symptoms: Rear suspension sagging and being significantly lower than the front.
- Solution: Replace rear shocks and springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Instrument Cluster Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Pixels disappearing from the LCD screens in the instrument cluster, intermittent gauge failures.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock remotely or manually.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
- Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating correctly or not staying up.
- Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
- Sunroof Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof stuck open/closed, not opening smoothly or making unusual noises.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor or mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust
- Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, particularly around the wheel wells, door bottoms, and liftgate.
- Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, depending on the severity of the rust.
- Tail Light Assembly Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the tail light housing
- Solution: Replace the tail light assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Climate Control Issues
- Description/Symptoms: AC not blowing cold, heater not blowing hot, or inconsistent temperatures. Common issue is the duo-valve failing.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the climate control system, which may involve replacing the duo-valve, compressor, blend door actuator, or other components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
- Seat Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Seats not adjusting properly or at all.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per seat
- Center Console Wood Trim Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the wood trim on the center console.
- Solution: Replace the trim piece.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$400
Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2000 Mercedes-Benz ML320, while offering a luxurious driving experience, is prone to a variety of issues typical of vehicles of its age. Engine oil leaks, transmission problems, and electrical malfunctions are among the most common complaints. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to more significant repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Rust can also be a concern, especially in regions with harsh winters or coastal climates. Overall, prospective buyers should carefully inspect any potential ML320 and be prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs.