2006 Mercedes-Benz MBO 14000

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML500 (W164 chassis) is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride and robust build quality. The ML500 features a 5.0L V8 engine producing around 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the W164 range include a 3.5L V6 (ML350), a 4.0L V8 diesel (ML400 CDI), and a high-performance 6.2L V8 (ML63 AMG). All engines are typically paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the ML500’s luxurious interior, smooth ride, and off-road capabilities. Common dislikes include higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury vehicles and potential electrical issues.

Engine

5.0L V8 (M113)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. This results in visible oil drips under the vehicle and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may experience rough idling, stalling, decreased power, and the check engine light illuminating with codes related to camshaft position sensors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and a check engine light often indicate a failing MAF sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the mass air flow sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during gear changes. This can be caused by a failing torque converter.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or a complete failure to shift. The valve body controls hydraulic pressure to different clutches and gears.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission may be stuck in gear, have erratic shifting, or not shift at all. This is a common issue with the 722.9 transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1500+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits unevenly, the suspension compressor runs constantly, or the vehicle rides harshly. This is caused by leaking air struts or a failing compressor.
  • Solution: Replace the air struts, air compressor, or both.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,000+ for compressor.
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Excessive play in the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, even when the vehicle is not in use. This can be caused by a faulty module or a parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source)
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as lights not working, wipers malfunctioning, or central locking issues. The SAM modules control various electrical functions.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty SAM module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof is slow or inoperative.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2006 ML500 can experience rust on body panels such as the rocker panels, fenders, and around the door handles, especially in regions with harsh winters or exposure to salt.
  • Solution: Repair and repaint the affected areas, or replace the rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$2,000+ depending on severity

Interior

• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system blows hot or cold air inconsistently, or the blower motor does not work. This is often caused by a failing blower motor resistor or a malfunctioning climate control module.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor or climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Command Center Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system may experience issues with the screen, buttons, or navigation system.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2,000+

Recalls:

• 2006070008
• 2016050003
• 2019020015
• 2020020010
• 2020040007
• 2023020004

Summary The 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML500 offers a luxurious and capable driving experience, but it is prone to certain issues. Engine oil leaks, transmission problems, air suspension failures, and electrical malfunctions are the most common concerns. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for major repairs like transmission overhauls or air suspension replacements. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.