2007 Mercedes-Benz ML500

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML500 is a mid-size luxury SUV that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and style. The ML500 comes standard with a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the 2007 M-Class include the 3.5L V6 (ML350) and the 6.2L V8 (ML63 AMG). Transmission options consisted of a 7-speed automatic across the range. Owners often praise its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. Common criticisms include high maintenance costs, electrical issues, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

5.0L V8 (M113)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto the exhaust manifolds, causing a burning smell and potential fire hazard. Visible oil residue around the valve covers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the oil cooler located near the oil filter housing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler seals or the entire oil cooler assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, stalling, and poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft position sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, getting stuck in a gear, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrating at low speeds, stalling, or abnormal noises coming from the transmission area.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low on one or more corners, inability to raise the vehicle, “Airmatic Visit Workshop” message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Air Strut Leaks (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging overnight, rough ride, hissing sound from the struts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining overnight or within a few days, requiring frequent jump starts. Often caused by a faulty module or a component not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the parasitic draw and repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the cause)
• Steering Angle Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ESP/ABS warning lights on the dashboard, power steering issues, or difficulty with vehicle stability control.
  • Solution: Replacement of the steering angle sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Sunroof Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, not opening or closing properly, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, regulator, or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Rust on Tailgate/Liftgate
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the license plate area or along the bottom edge of the tailgate.
  • Solution: Repair of the rusted area, including rust removal, bodywork, and painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Interior

• Delamination of Wood Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: The clear coat on the wood trim peels off and cracks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the wood trim pieces, or refinishing the existing trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Summary

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML500, while luxurious and powerful, is prone to several issues, especially as it ages. Engine oil leaks and transmission valve body problems are significant concerns that can lead to costly repairs. The air suspension system is also a frequent source of headaches for owners. Electrical issues, such as battery drain and sensor failures, can add to the ownership costs. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in the possibility of higher-than-average maintenance expenses.