2003 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG

Introduction

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG was an all-wheel-drive mid-size SUV known for its high-performance capabilities. It featured a potent 5.5-liter V8 engine that produced 349 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque. The ML55 AMG could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and boasted a top speed of 155 mph. Other engine and transmission options available for the ML-Class included:

• 3.7-liter V6 (235 horsepower, 243 lb-ft of torque) with a 5-speed automatic transmission
• 4.3-liter V8 (270 horsepower, 297 lb-ft of torque) with a 5-speed automatic transmission

Apart from its performance, the ML55 AMG was also praised for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and high-quality construction. However, it also had some known issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

• 5.5-liter V8

  • Intake manifold runner flap failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, reduced power, and increased emissions.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the intake manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets:
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, visible as drips or puddles.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-speed automatic

  • Transmission slipping or shifting issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: Delay or hesitation in gear shifting, slipping during acceleration, or sudden loss of power.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air suspension leaks or failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, uneven ride height, or reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace the air struts or compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical system failures:
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, such as flickering lights, malfunctioning gauges, or intermittent starting problems.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific electrical component causing the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust or corrosion on the tailgate, especially around the edges or license plate area.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate or repair the rusted areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door lock actuators failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking the doors, manual intervention required, or intermittent unlocking.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation system issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Map data outdated or incorrect, system freezing or crashing, or reduced functionality.
  • Solution: Update or replace the navigation system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG was a sporty and capable SUV, but it was not without its issues. The most severe and expensive issue to note is the transmission slipping or shifting problems. Other issues, such as electrical failures, suspension leaks, and interior components issues, may also arise and can be costly to repair. However, many of these issues are relatively common for vehicles of this age and mileage, and the ML55 AMG remains a desirable choice for those seeking a high-performance SUV with a premium interior.