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2007 Mercedes-Benz MBO 12000

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W164) is a luxury SUV that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and utility. The MBO 12000 is not a specific engine/model offered in the M-Class. However, the available engine options for the 2007 M-Class in the US market included the ML320 CDI (diesel), ML350 (gasoline), ML500 (gasoline), and ML63 AMG (gasoline). The ML350, for instance, came with a 3.5L V6 engine producing around 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Common praises for the W164 M-Class include its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and capable handling. Criticisms often target its reliability issues, complex electronics, and potentially high maintenance costs.

Engine

3.5L V6 (ML350)

  • Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, poor performance, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to camshaft position.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Filter Housing)
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Diesel (ML320 CDI)

  • Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, warning lights, DPF regeneration issues, potential limp mode.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the DPF. May also involve addressing underlying issues causing excessive soot buildup.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, whining noises from the turbocharger.
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8 (ML500)

  • Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Rear Main Seal)
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, low oil level.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking valve cover gaskets or rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6.2L V8 (ML63 AMG)

  • Valve Lifter/Hydraulic Tappet Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, especially when cold.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty valve lifters/hydraulic tappets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $5000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9) 7-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

  • Conductor Plate Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission slipping, getting stuck in a gear, limp mode, and diagnostic trouble codes related to the transmission.
    • Solution: Replace the conductor plate, often requiring valve body removal and coding.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, delayed engagement, slipping, and diagnostic trouble codes.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Airmatic Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor failure, warning lights.
    • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty air struts, compressor, or related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+ per strut, $500 - $1500+ for compressor
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noises from the suspension, especially when turning. Loose steering.
    • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, unable to start the vehicle, intermittent starting issues.
    • Solution: Replace the EIS and potentially reprogram the keys.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, including lighting problems, wiper issues, and sensor failures.
    • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty SAM unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust (Especially in areas with road salt)
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on body panels, undercarriage, and around wheel wells.
    • Solution: Rust repair, body work, and repainting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$5000+ (depending on severity)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues (Track/Motor Failure)
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making grinding noises.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof tracks or motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine problems like oil leaks and camshaft adjuster solenoid failures, transmission conductor plate issues, and suspension problems with the Airmatic system (if equipped) can lead to significant repair costs. Electrical issues, such as EIS and SAM module failures, are also common concerns. Depending on the severity and frequency of issues, ownership can be costly. Careful inspection and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.

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