2008 Mercedes-Benz ML500

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML500 is a mid-size luxury SUV that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and style. The ML500 came standard with a 5.5L V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a 3.5L V6 and a diesel V6. All engines were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the ML500 for its smooth ride, powerful engine (specifically the V8), and luxurious interior. Common complaints include higher maintenance costs, some electrical issues, and occasionally, issues with the air suspension.

Engine

5.5L V8 Engine

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil spots under the vehicle, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gaskets or seals is the typical fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning camshaft adjuster solenoids can cause rough idling, misfires, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Engine

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft position sensor may fail causing a stall, rough running engine, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil spots under the vehicle, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gaskets or seals is the typical fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak
  • Recalls: None Found

Diesel V6 Engine

• Oil Cooler Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks developing from the oil cooler seals, leading to oil dripping and potential loss of coolant.
  • Solution: Replace oil cooler seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic Transmission (7G-Tronic)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting, harsh shifting, or transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic (air suspension) system is prone to leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, or issues with the valve block. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially overnight, a suspension malfunction warning light, or a noisy air compressor.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air struts, replacing the air compressor, or replacing the valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per strut, $500 - $1000+ for the compressor, $300 - $800 for the valve block
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the ball joints.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ball joint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may not start, or the key may not be recognized.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module, often requiring reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a few days of being parked.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic draw. This could involve replacing a faulty module, relay, or fixing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof stuck open, sunroof not opening, or sunroof rattling.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the sunroof motor, regulator, or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can occur, especially in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of rusted components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heater Core Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant into the passenger compartment, fogging of the windshield, and a sweet smell inside the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the heater core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ (due to the labor-intensive dashboard removal)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Cup Holder
  • Description/Symptoms: Cup holder breaking due to poor design and brittle plastic.
  • Solution: Replace the cup holder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML500 offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The air suspension and electrical problems can be expensive to repair. Oil leaks are also common and need to be addressed. Transmission issues are also expensive but not seen on every vehicle. Before purchasing, a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic is recommended. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially costly repairs.