2002 Mercedes-Benz ML500

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz ML500 is a mid-size luxury SUV that offered a blend of comfort, performance, and off-road capability. In addition to the ML500’s 5.0L V8 engine (302 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque), the ML series was available with a 3.2L V6 and a 4.3L V8. All engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciated the ML500’s powerful engine and luxurious interior, but some disliked its reliability issues and higher maintenance costs.

Engine

5.0L V8 (M113)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the ground, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+, depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MAF sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine, which is crucial for proper fuel mixture. A failing MAF sensor can cause poor engine performance, rough idling, stalling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The conductor plate houses the transmission’s electrical components, including the speed sensors. Failure can cause erratic shifting, being stuck in gear, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and potentially the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter couples the engine to the transmission. Symptoms of failure include shuddering during acceleration, difficulty shifting, and unusual noises from the transmission area.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with the optional air suspension, common issues include air leaks in the air struts or air lines, compressor failure, and malfunctioning ride height sensors. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, a harsh ride, and the air suspension warning light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking components (struts, lines, compressor) or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints can cause clunking noises in the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. They can also cause steering instability and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per ball joint.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty alternator, parasitic draw from an electrical component, or a failing battery.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience various issues, including dead pixels, dim lighting, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop in various locations, particularly on the lower body panels, around the wheel wells, and on the tailgate.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing the sunroof to jam, leak, or not open/close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window regulators can fail, causing the windows to become stuck or operate erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz ML500 can be a rewarding vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of its potential reliability issues. Engine and transmission issues, especially oil leaks and conductor plate/torque converter failures, can be costly to repair. Suspension issues, particularly with the air suspension, can also add to the maintenance burden. Electrical gremlins are also common. Overall, the ML500 can present significant repair costs if not properly maintained. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.