2005 Mercedes-Benz ML350

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML350 is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride and upscale features. The ML350 came standard with a 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 232 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a 4.3-liter V8 and a 5.0-liter V8 for the ML500. A common complaint is the vehicle’s age, leading to increased maintenance needs. Some owners appreciate its robust build quality, while others find the repair costs to be high. All engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The crankshaft position sensor can fail, leading to stalling, rough running, and difficulty starting. The check engine light will typically illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

4.3L V8 & 5.0L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the V6, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal are common. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The MAF sensor can fail, leading to poor engine performance, decreased fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or harsh shifting between gears. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (flush) to $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can manifest as shuddering at low speeds, stalling, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with air suspension, problems can include compressor failure, air leaks in the struts or lines, and the vehicle sitting unevenly.
  • Solution: Replacing the compressor, struts, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints can cause clunking noises in the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per corner.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery can drain overnight or over a few days, preventing the car from starting. This can be caused by a faulty component drawing excessive current.
  • Solution: Identifying and replacing the faulty component (e.g., seat control module, radio, alarm system).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows can fail to operate, often due to a broken window regulator.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the body panels, especially in areas prone to salt exposure.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may be stuck, make noise when opening/closing, or leak.
  • Solution: Repair or replace sunroof components (motor, tracks).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML350, while offering a luxurious and comfortable driving experience, is prone to several issues due to its age. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems are common, potentially leading to costly repairs. Electrical gremlins such as battery drain and window regulator failures can also be frustrating. Air suspension issues (if equipped) further add to the potential maintenance burden. Overall, owning a 2005 ML350 can be relatively expensive to maintain due to the age of the components, so keep this in mind as you are shopping for one.