2005 Mercedes-Benz MBO 14000

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML500 (W163 chassis) is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its comfort and off-road capability. Engine options included a 3.7L V6, a 4.3L V8, a 5.0L V8 (ML500), and a 5.4L AMG V8 (ML55 AMG). The ML500’s 5.0L V8 produced 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Many owners appreciate the solid build quality and smooth ride. Common complaints revolve around electrical issues, maintenance costs, and some reliability concerns as the vehicle ages. All engine options for this year model were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

5.0L V8 (M113)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil filter housing. Visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil level are typical symptoms.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals. Clean the affected area after the repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft position sensor can fail, causing rough idling, stalling, or a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine with poor idling, a check engine light, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The 722.6 transmission is known to develop issues with the valve body and conductor plate, leading to slipping between gears or harsh shifts.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild, conductor plate replacement, and fluid flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. May also require flushing the transmission to remove debris.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, especially overnight, compressor not running, or vehicle riding very low.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air struts, the air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per strut; $300 - $800 for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint and Control Arm Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and control arms. An alignment is required after the replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side, depending on parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, even with a new battery. This can be caused by a faulty component that is not turning off, such as the seat control module or the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Diagnose the parasitic draw and replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component causing the drain and diagnostic time.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels missing from the LCD screen, gauges not working properly, or the entire cluster malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Remove rust, repair affected areas, and repaint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the severity of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making unusual noises, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking with the remote or the door switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML500 is a generally reliable vehicle, but common issues arise with age. Oil leaks, transmission problems, and electrical gremlins are typical concerns. The air suspension (if equipped) can be a significant expense. The severity and cost of these issues range from minor repairs to major overhauls, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be costly due to the price of parts and the complexity of the vehicle.