2003 Mercedes-Benz ML350

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML350 is a mid-size SUV known for its comfort, luxury features, and off-road capability. The ML350 features a 3.7L V6 engine producing 232 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2003 ML-Class include a 2.3L I4, a 4.3L V8, and a 5.4L V8. All engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its smooth ride and upscale interior, but common complaints include electrical issues, rust, and relatively high maintenance costs compared to other SUVs.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+, depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MAF sensor can fail, leading to poor engine performance, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 5-speed automatic transmission can experience slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, and generally erratic behavior. These issues can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn valve body components, or a failing torque converter.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change may resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body replacement, torque converter replacement, or a full transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The conductor plate inside the transmission can fail, causing the transmission to go into limp mode or exhibit erratic shifting. A transmission fault code will typically be stored.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Models equipped with the optional air suspension can experience failures of the air struts, air compressor, or air lines, leading to a sagging suspension, uneven ride height, and a rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per strut, $300 - $800 for the compressor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints and Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per corner

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use, leading to starting problems.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic drain by finding which component is staying active when the vehicle is off.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the source of the drain
• Instrument Cluster Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience issues such as dim or flickering displays, malfunctioning gauges, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down or making loud noises while operating.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can form on various parts of the vehicle, especially in areas exposed to salt, such as the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the severity and location of the rust.

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, fail to open or close properly, or leak.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Cup Holder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Cup holder mechanism breaks easily
  • Solution: Replacing the cup holder mechanism or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML350, while offering a luxurious driving experience, can be prone to several common issues. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems are relatively frequent and can lead to significant repair costs. Electrical problems, suspension issues, and rust are also potential concerns. The severity and cost of these issues can vary greatly depending on the vehicle’s condition and maintenance history, but prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.